In its final home game of the season, UTSA defeated Florida Atlantic University 60-42 Saturday at the Convocation Center to secure both the American Athletic Conference Championship and a record-setting 25th regular season victory.
Celebrating senior night, the Roadrunners were led by their elite senior duo of forward Jordyn Jenkins and guard Nina De Leon Negron. Besting the Owls in nearly every statistical category, UTSA dominated all facets of the game. After building a double-digit lead early, the team never relinquished control. Their home showcase served as a crowning point to the program’s incredible rebuild.
“It’s been a long, wonderful journey,” coach Karen Aston said. “We’re not done yet for sure.”
In what was more of a celebration than a regular season game, the Roadrunners effortlessly commanded the contest. Creating and holding a comfortable lead throughout regulation, the team continued to click offensively on all cylinders. The team’s defense also shined tremendously, as they held Florida Atlantic to long possessions and multiple shot clock violations.
Jenkins beamed bright in her final home performance, proving why she is deserving of the AAC Player of the Year award. The senior scored 11 points and snagged seven rebounds in the blowout victory. Effortlessly scoring from the mid-range and low-post, Jenkins overwhelmed the weary Owl defense. Her exit from the game at the one-minute mark sparked a thunderous roar from the audience as fans cheered for one of the greatest players in Roadrunner history.
“I remember when I first came here, I wanted to get to that top level,” Jenkins stated. “I put the work in for that. That’s turned into a reality here now.”
De Leon Negron and other ‘Runners also performed at a high level. With eight players contributing to the team’s offensive output and three breaking double-digits, the team showed no struggles in finishing at the basket.
UTSA bested the Owls with ease and secured the AAC regular season championship. The Convocation Center, once again, erupted as Jenkins hoisted up the AAC trophy. With celebrations ensuing, each player climbed the ladder to cut down a piece of the net. Bringing a regular season conference championship to UTSA, the ‘Runners set a new standard for women’s basketball in San Antonio.
“I kept trying not to cry,” De Leon Negron said. “It’s something I’ve never felt in my five years in college.”
The Roadrunners will take on East Carolina University for their final regular season game before gearing up for the American Athletic Conference tournament.
