By: Ethan Horner
(Photo/Ethan Horner-The Mojo Network)
ORLANDO, FL — The UCF Knights hosted the South Alabama Jaguars last night in what turned out to be a much more exciting game than many anticipated. The Knights entered the matchup looking to extend their winning streak to three games and remain undefeated to start the season.
South Alabama came out firing offensively, putting pressure on the Knights early. At one point midway through the first half, the Jaguars were shooting 56% from the field and an impressive 75% from beyond the arc.
UCF had some offensive struggles of its own, going through a scoring drought that lasted approximately four and a half minutes before Cayden Vasko finally broke through with a three-pointer. Vasko followed that up with another three on the next possession, providing a much-needed spark for the Knights.
Dior Johnson also made an early impact, getting on the scoreboard with five points before checking out with 13:30 remaining in the first half.
As the first half progressed, South Alabama continued to find ways to score, but its shooting efficiency began to drop. Carmelo Pacheco helped keep UCF within striking distance, knocking down back-to-back three-pointers during a stretch when the Knights needed an offensive spark.
Pacheco was nearly automatic from beyond the arc in the opening 20 minutes, knocking down four three-pointers on six attempts to finish the half with 12 points.
UCF entered the locker room trailing 34-32. Despite the deficit, the Knights had a chance to take control of the game in the second half. UCF shot just under 38% from the field in the opening 20 minutes, although the Knights were finding some success from three-point range, connecting on 42% of their attempts. South Alabama, meanwhile, saw its shooting percentage fall to 42% from the field by halftime after its hot start.
The second half was a different story for the Knights.
UCF came out of the break with a much better offensive rhythm, reclaiming the lead at 41-39 within the first five minutes. Pacheco was once again at the center of the offensive surge, knocking down two consecutive three-pointers to bring his scoring total to 18 points and his three-point total to six.
The Knights continued to build momentum, making their first five field-goal attempts of the second half. Pacheco added another corner three-pointer, forcing South Alabama to call a timeout with UCF holding a 49-41 advantage and approximately 13 minutes remaining.
UCF’s offensive efficiency continued to improve as the second half progressed, shooting an impressive 66% from the field with six minutes remaining.
Pacheco continued his outstanding night from beyond the arc, knocking down another three-pointer to bring his game total to 24 points and eight made three-pointers.
While Pacheco provided the shooting touch, Dior Johnson put together an outstanding all-around performance for the Knights. Johnson finished with 24 points, nine assists, five steals and, most impressively, zero turnovers. His ability to contribute as both a scorer and playmaker played a major role in helping UCF close out the game.
The Knights were able to hold off South Alabama down the stretch, securing a 76-69 victory and extending their winning streak to three games to open the season.
Pacheco and Johnson finished tied as the team’s leading scorers with 24 points apiece. Pacheco’s eight three-pointers provided a major offensive boost, while Johnson’s nine assists and five steals showcased his impact on both ends of the floor.
UCF will look to keep its undefeated start alive when the Knights return home Friday to take on Georgia Southern.