Jordan Burks shines with a career-high, home-court magic fuels the crowd, and defensive grit powers UCF's commanding win over TCU.
February has historically been a challenging month for the Knights (18-7, 7-6 Big 12), and this year was no different. Coming into Tuesday night, UCF faced a three-game losing streak, their longest of the season.
However, the Knights returned to their roots, playing "UCF basketball," a point emphasized by head coach Johnny Dawkins and junior forward Jordan Burks after a tough 74-67 loss to West Virginia.
Let's dive into the three key factors that propelled UCF back to victory.
- Jordan Burks' Career Night
Burks set the tone early for the Knights, hitting a three-pointer from the wing on the opening possession, signaling a standout performance. The Villanova transfer exploded for a career-high 23 points, sinking five from beyond the arc, and leading the team with seven rebounds.
In a highlight moment late in the first half, Burks dazzled from the right corner, driving baseline before pulling off a slick ankle-breaking move and nailing a step-back three.
Defensively, Burks was just as impactful, recording a steal and a block while keeping the pressure on TCU’s front court.
- Fear the Fronds
UCF's home-court advantage is no joke, especially with the palm fronds and creative signs waving in the student section. Tuesday night was a testament to that atmosphere. TCU struggled at the free-throw line, hitting just 17 of 27 attempts (63%).
The Horned Frogs had three empty trips at the line, missing both shots, and faltered on several front-ends of one-and-one opportunities.
Meanwhile, the Knights were nearly flawless from the charity stripe, going 18-20 (90%).
- Defensive Intensity
While a losing streak can often disrupt team chemistry, the Knights' bench was alive and supportive, fueling UCF's defensive intensity.
UCF held TCU to 25-60 (42%) shooting from the field, allowing only four three-pointers. The Knights capitalized on TCU's errors, scoring 12 points off turnovers and racking up 18 fast break points.
UCF jumped to a quick 9-2 lead and never looked back. The Horned Frogs managed just 28 first-half points, with their leading scorer, sophomore forward David Punch, saddled with three fouls before the break.
What's Next?
This rebound win was crucial for the Knights, especially with TCU making waves in the March Madness conversation. UCF hits the road this Saturday to face Utah (9-16, 1-11 Big 12) at 9:00 p.m. Game Day awaits!