Thrilling Showdown: Middle Tennessee Edges Out Florida International 73-69 in January Duel

MIAMI — — Jlynn Counter’s 17 points were instrumental in Middle Tennessee’s triumph over Florida International 73-69, marking the commencement of Conference USA action on Thursday evening.

Counter also added five rebounds for the Blue Raiders (10-4, 1-0). Camryn Weston netted 15 points with a shooting performance of 5 for 14 (2 for 6 from beyond the arc) and made 3 of 4 free throws while contributing five rebounds. Both Essam Mostafa and Jestin Porter scored 11 points.

Vianney Salatchoum led the Panthers (6-8, 0-1) in scoring, finishing with 21 points. Asim Jones contributed 15 points, five assists, two steals, and two blocks for Florida International. Dashon Gittens ended with 10 points and had two steals.

Counter tallied eight points in the initial half, and Middle Tennessee headed into halftime down 35-32. The Blue Raiders clinched the win following a 13-2 run in the second half that overturned a seven-point deficit, taking the lead at 71-67 with just 14 seconds left in the game. Mostafa added nine points in the second half.

NEXT UP

Both teams will be in action again on Saturday. Middle Tennessee will take on Liberty as Florida International faces Western Kentucky at home.

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This report was prepared by The Associated Press utilizing technology supplied by Data Skrive and information from Sportradar.