UAB Basketball Tips Off New Season in Birmingham
In the heart of Birmingham, it’s that exciting time of year again—basketball season is back! The UAB Blazers are ready to take the court and defend their title in the upcoming conference tournament. Fans are buzzing with anticipation as the season kicks off on Monday night at 6:30 p.m. against the University of Vermont. There’s plenty to look forward to this year, so let’s dive into what you need to know!
Meet the Coach and Team
Leading the Blazers this season is head coach Andy Kennedy, who is entering his fifth season with the team. He’s built a solid program, and last year showed just how effective his leadership is. Last season, UAB posted a record of 23-12, going 12-6 in the American Athletic Conference (AAC). They made a splash by winning the AAC Tournament, earning them a spot in the NCAA Tournament, where they played against South Dakota State but fell in the first round.
This year, the team is bringing back some key players who had impressive performances last season. Standout players like Yaxel Lendeborg, a senior forward/center standing at 6-9, averaged 13.8 points and 10.6 rebounds per game. He’s set to be a major contributor again this year. Joining him are fellow seniors Christian Coleman and Alejandro Vasquez, who made significant impacts last year with averages of 7.7 points and 11.1 points, respectively.
Fresh Faces and Key Absences
To stay competitive in this fast-paced environment, the Blazers have also brought in some fresh talent! Look out for Greg Gordon and Tyren Moore, both senior guards who transferred from other universities. Gordon, standing at 6-5, comes from Iona and offers a strong physical presence on the perimeter, while Moore adds speed and agility after transferring from Georgia Southern. There are also exciting freshman commitments, including 6-6 forward Makhi Myles and 6-1 guard Reginald Kennedy Jr..
However, the team will be hoping to fill the void left by a couple of key departures. Last year’s guard Eric Gaines and Daniel Ortiz have moved on, leaving gaps in the lineup that the returning players and newcomers will need to address.
Season Schedule Highlights
As the Blazers get set to defend their title, fans can look forward to an exciting season ahead. Their home games are a must-see, especially with matchups against Southern Miss, Auburn Montgomery, and a challenging game against Middle Tennessee. Plus, UAB will be hitting the road in December for an exciting matchup against North Texas, which promises to be an intense contest in the AAC.
The team recently showcased their readiness by snagging a win in an exhibition match against Western Kentucky, finishing with an 88-79 victory. This initial win surely sets a positive tone going into their first real test against Vermont.
The Buzz Around Town
With so much talent on the roster and a passionate fan base behind them, the energy in Birmingham is palpable. The support for UAB men’s basketball is unwavering, and this season is shaping up to be one that the fans won’t want to miss. Whether you’re a season ticket holder or planning to catch a game for the first time, now is the time to cheer on the Blazers as they aim to make a statement this year!
So grab your jerseys and get ready. The UAB Blazers are set to hit the hardwood and they’re ready to bring the heat! Go Blazers!
