Shockers’ season ends with loss to UAB in AAC quarterfinals
WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) — The dance has ended for the Wichita State Shockers, whose season ended with a 72-60 loss to Alabama-Birmingham in the AAC Tournament quarterfinals on Friday.
The Shockers hung with UAB for most of the game, but a scoring drought midway through the second half allowed the Blazers to extend their lead to as many as 12 en route to the win.
Wichita State had three scores in double figures, with Xavier Bell and Harlond Beverly scoring 14 a piece and Colby Rogers scoring 10.
Wichita protester wins case in Kansas Supreme Court
The Blazers had five players score in double figures, with Yaxel Lendeborg leading the charge with 18 points and 14 rebounds.
As a team, the Shockers shot 39% from the field and just 25% from three. Turnovers were kept at a minimum, as Wichita State only committed seven, but the defense also only forced four on UAB.
Through the first half, Wichita State hung tight. Neither team got a significant lead on the other, and the two headed into the locker rooms with UAB holding a 33-31 advantage.
In the second half, though, UAB used strong defense to keep Wichita State off-balance, which led to the Blazers extending their lead.
With the loss, the Wichita State Shockers finish their season with an overall record of 15-19. All eyes now turn to the transfer portal as Shockers head coach Paul Mills will look to both keep his current unit together and add pieces ahead of next season.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSN-TV.
