Blazing Trails: UAB Athletics Unleashed!

BIRMINGHAM – Yaxel Lendeborg came up just two assists away from achieving a triple-double on Tuesday evening, guiding UAB men’s basketball (9-7, 2-1 AAC) to an 81-69 triumph against Tulane (8-8, 2-1 AAC).

The Green Wave surged ahead early, establishing an 18-9 advantage at the 12:27 mark with an 8-0 run. UAB quickly countered with consecutive three-pointers from Tyren Moore.

After falling behind 23-15, Yaxel Lendeborg brought the Blazers back within striking distance, executing a solo 7-0 run capped off by a three-pointer to trim the deficit to one.

Late in the half, the Blazers pulled away from the Green Wave as Tony Toney sank two three-pointers, prompting a timeout from Tulane. Ja’Borri McGhee finished the 10-0 run with a layup, giving the Blazers a 41-32 lead with under three minutes remaining in the half.

McGhee wrapped up the half by grabbing a rebound and getting fouled on the putback for a three-point play, allowing the Blazers to take a 46-38 lead into halftime. Lendeborg concluded the first half with 15 points, eight rebounds, and six assists.

After halftime, UAB struggled initially, committing turnovers on their first three possessions, which led Andy Kennedy to call a timeout.

Midway through the second half, Lendeborg and Efrem “Butta” Johnson each contributed four points, spearheading an 8-0 run to establish a 62-54 lead for the Blazers.

Once again, Tony Toney stepped up for UAB, draining back-to-back threes in the closing minutes to widen the lead to 71-59.

The Blazers managed to maintain their lead in the closing moments, securing the 81-69 win.

NOTES

• Yaxel Lendeborg’s attempt for the Blazers’ third triple-double fell short as he achieved 25 points, 13 rebounds, and a career high of eight assists.
• Tony Toney matched his personal best of 15 points while hitting a career-high five three-pointers.
• Ja’Borri McGhee closed out with 11 points and tied his career high with four steals.
• The Blazers notched a total of 20 assists for the sixth time this season.
• UAB had only attempted 23 free throws combined over the last two games, the lowest in any two-game stretch since the 2020-21 season.
• UAB has recorded over 80 points 12 times this season, just one shy of their total of 13 during the 2023-24 season.

GROUP RATES AND FAN EXPERIENCE PACKAGES NOW AVAILABLE
Individuals and corporate groups can schedule an unforgettable experience during any of UAB’s home events at Bartow Arena this season by completing the UAB Basketball Group Ticket Request Form. Fan experience packages and discounted group tickets are accessible with a minimum purchase of 15 tickets, and fan experiences at Bartow Arena are offered on a first-come, first-served basis throughout the season.

Group ticket packages offer families, friends, or organizations the chance to save on single game ticket prices while enjoying remarkable fan experiences at Bartow Arena. Discounted group rates are available for both men’s and women’s basketball contests, with pricing dependent on the size of the pre-purchased group. This season, UAB Athletics is providing unique fan experiences for groups, including a spirit tunnel, sideline warm-up viewing, group photos at center court, post-game free throws, and videoboard recognition, among other options. Click here for a comprehensive list of the group rates, benefits, and fan experience packages available.

POWER UP

UAB Athletics is thrilled to participate in the American Athletic Conference and encourages Blazer Nation to Power Up by becoming a member of the 2025 Blazer Boosters. Join Blazer Boosters today as UAB student-athletes strive for championships, graduate with honors, and contribute positively to our community.

FOLLOW THE BLAZERS

For further details about the UAB men’s basketball team, follow @UAB_MBB on Twitter and Instagram.