Headed into the second week of their season, UTSA men’s basketball will have its hands full taking on two familiar opponents. Squaring off against Bradley University and University of Arkansas at Little Rock, the Roadrunners hope to go 2-0 in their second regular season week.
History and Storylines
Bradley
With their previous matchup occurring in 2017, Bradley has continued to get the best of the Roadrunners, defeating them in a 71-69 victory at the Convocation Center. Though nearly seven years ago, the program has continued to be one that is respectable and dangerous offensively. Traveling to Peoria, Illinois, UTSA will face off against the Gargoyles Tuesday at the Renaissance Coliseum. For the first road game of the ‘Runners’ season, fans will get to see how the team’s game travels and gain a brief insight into head coach Austin Claunch’s ability to make quick adjustments in a hostile environment. Hoping to even the all-time record at one a piece, the game will serve as a test to see how the team handles road conditions.
Little Rock
An extremely familiar opponent, the Trojans have continued to be a thorn in the Roadrunners’ side. Going exactly .500 in their last 10 matchups against Little Rock, UTSA will look to add a quality win to its season at the Convocation Center on Saturday. As the third home game of the season, the matchup is sure to be one filled with excitement and high offensive output. An opponent that has consistently given the ‘Runners problems, the matchup will be a good test for the team’s ability to play against high level talent.
Matchups
Bradley
A team heavily reliant on a high scoring output, Bradley is no stranger to taking and making big-time shots. Led by guard Christian Davis and Jaquan Johnson, the Gargoyles are deadly from the perimeter, averaging 88 points a game while shooting 55% from the field. Combatting the two will be UTSA’s own offensive weapons in guard Primo Spears and point guard Marcus Millender. With both combining for 46 of the team’s 103 points in their home opener, the duo is sure to continue their high scoring streak headinginto the Renaissance Coliseum. ‘Runners’ forward senior Jaquan Scott will also look to feast in his first road game, as his size will prove to be a tough matchup for the Gargoyles.
Little Rock
Similar to Bradley, the Trojans are heavily dependent on their guard play. Led by point guard Mwani Wilkinson and Jordan Jefferson, the Trojans rely on a fast pace, quick scoring play style. Their transition offense will keep UTSA on its toes during Saturday’s matchup, as the team will need to constantly be aware of getting back on defense after each shot attempt. While the guards should have no trouble matching the Trojan’s fast pace tempo, it is the Roadrunner forwards who will need to step up if UTSA hopes to walk away with a win. The team will also need to limit their turnover count, as Little Rock averages 24 total points off of turnovers alone.
Predictions
Bradley
Though the matchup will be a tough road exhibition, it is one that UTSA has full capability of winning. The team will need to play sharp and free of careless mistakes if they hope to steal a victory atthe Coliseum. Headed into enemy territory, the Roadrunners will pull out a win in a close game against Bradley.
Paisano Pick: UTSA 92, Bradley 89
Little Rock
Coming home to face off against the Trojans, it is nearly impossible to predict the outcome of the game. 5-5 in their last 10 matchups, the contest is one which can swing in either team’s favor. Though the team will undoubtedly play their best, it is hard to see an outcome where the Roadrunners begin the season 4-0. With that being said, it is likely that the Roadrunners lose a crushing defeat against the Trojans at the Convocation Center Saturday.
Paisano Pick: Little Rock 94, UTSA 91
