USF basketball steamrolls UAB in convincing American Conference win

After a USF basketball game, we typically ask head coach Bryan Hodgson for his observations. But after the Bulls bullied long-time nemesis UAB 82-69 Thursday night in Birmingham, Blazers coach Andy Kennedy had a succinct and accurate observation.

“We were never in the game,” Kennedy told reporters. “I mean, [USF] led it for 38 minutes."

And that, folks, accurately sums up perhaps the Bulls' most satisfying win of the season. It was USF's first win over the Blazers since 2014 and snapped a seven-game losing streak against their American Conference rival. It was sweet balm for the 109-106 double overtime loss the Blazers hung on the Bulls earlier this month at the Yuengling Center.

"We should be 2-0 against these guys," Hodgson said on the post-game radio show. "We gave them one at our place. Our fellows knew that."

They played like a team on a mission.

Joseph Pinion tied his career-high with 25 points, 6-of-12 on 3-pointers. It was his fifth game with at least six baskets from long range, which set a program record.

CJ Brown had nine assists. Josh Omojafo had 13 points.

But it was more than just offensive fireworks. The Bulls held the Blazers to just 29.3 percent from the field on 22 of 75 shots. USF outscored the Blazers 17-8 in points off turnovers.

"I thought our defense was good," Hodgson said. "I thought we did a great job for the most part. We were much better in transition defense today. I'm really proud of our effort on that."

Daimion Collins had five blocks and even hit a pair of 3-pointers.

"Daimion was really, really good," Hodgson said.

The win improved USF to 12-7 overall and 4-2 in the conference, setting up a huge game Sunday in Tampa against Florida Atlantic. The Owls sit atop the conference with a 6-1 record in league play. If the Bulls win, they will be even in the loss column with the Owls. USF is one of five conference teams with two losses.

"We've got a lot of work to do between now and then. FAU's really good," Hodgson said. "They're doing a heck of a job, and they're not just beating people. They're beating the heck out of people. We've got to get a lot better before we see them in a couple of days,"