Temple Surges Late to Defeat UCF 63 – 56
PHILADELPHIA, PA 1/28/2023
The Temple Owls are showing that even though they are short on the number of players, this team is long on determination as they win two in a row. At the Liacouras Center Temple overcame the UCF Knights in a battle 63 – 56. Temple is down to eight players, and possibly less, due to injury and players leaving the program. Coach Diane Richardson sees a resolve and determination in this team.
“That was the thing we wanted early on the season is to have that resiliency,” Richardson said. “That’s why we had a tough schedule. I wanted them to learn that we may get knocked down, but we have to get back up. What we are seeing now, especially with a shortened roster, is that resiliency coming out, and that willingness to fight to win.”
The team leaders needed to step up and did. Aleah Nelson led the team with a game-high 28 points, and 10 for 10 from the foul line. She scored the last 10 points for the Owls over the last three minutes. Tarriyonna Gary added 16 points and Tiarra East contributed 12. However, Nelson said the game was won on the defensive end of the floor.
“Down the stretch in the fourth quarter Coach Rich and the other coaches emphasize getting stops,” said Nelson. “Really focusing on defense. When we lock down and play defense just getting consecutive stops in a row, that builds confidence to go shoot the ball.”
And Coach Richardson pointed out that team turned UCF over 22 times. The Knights scored 13 fourth quarter points.
Destiny Thomas led thee Knights with 16 points. Taylor Gibson added 15 points.
Temple improves to 9 – 11 and evens their American slate at 4. Next up a home game against Wichita State. The Cherry and White defeated Tulane and UCF while having a depleted roster.
Written By: Glenn Papazian
Contact: Glenn@PhillyCollegeSports.com
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