After starting the season off with 14 straight victories, the UCF basketball team continues to slide early on in their conference slate. Led by Conner Frizzelle’s 15 points, the Rice Owls (9-10, 1-4 C-USA) were able to upset the Knights 57-50 last night at the UCF Arena. It was UCF’s (14-4, 1-4 C-USA) fourth straight loss as they struggle to get on track in league play.
Rice ended their four-game losing streak in Conference-USA as they were able to pull away in the second half with a 15-1 run to start the final 20 minutes of regulation. UCF was simply not able to overcome the deficit after another lackluster shooting night, where they shot 30 percent (14-of-46) from the field and 13 percent (2-of-15) from the three-point line.
Arsalan Kazemi also came up big for the Owls, posting a double-double with 11 points and 14 rebounds.
It was a largely defensive game with neither team shooting at a high percentage, but Rice was able to take advantage of large offensive droughts by the Knights. Despite leading 27-25 at halftime, UCF didn’t have many answers in the second half when it came to scoring timely baskets.
Keith Clanton led the Knights with 18 points, eight boards and four blocks. Marcus Jordan also contributed with 10 points and three assists, while senior A.J. Tyler had eight points, six rebounds and two blocks.
UCF will look to end their current slide when they travel to Memphis to face the Tigers Wednesday at 8 p.m.
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