Preview: UAB Blazers at South Florida Bulls

TAMPA, Fla. (Interstat) — Two American Athletic Conference teams looking to build momentum will meet Sunday when the UAB Blazers visit the South Florida Bulls.

UAB (9-5) enters the contest after a tough 75-70 home loss to Wichita State on Wednesday. The Blazers had won two straight prior to that defeat. South Florida (8-5) is riding high after a dominant 111-50 victory over Georgia College on Monday.

The game features a compelling matchup in the backcourt. UAB will rely on guard Daniel Rivera, who is averaging 13.0 points per game. Rivera is coming off an 18-point, 5-rebound performance in the loss to Wichita State and has scored in double figures in three of his last four outings.

South Florida counters with dynamic guard CJ Brown, who nearly recorded a triple-double in his last game. Brown posted 22 points, 10 rebounds and 8 assists against Georgia College, showcasing his all-around playmaking ability. He has averaged 10.8 points and 6.3 assists over his last four games.

The Blazers have shown a potent offense at times, scoring 101 points in a win over Cleveland State on Dec. 17. Evan Chatman (15 points vs. Wichita State) and Jacob Meyer (15 points) provide additional scoring options alongside Rivera.

The Bulls have displayed offensive firepower as well, with Izaiyah Nelson (25 points, 12 rebounds vs. Georgia College) and Josh Omojafo (23 points) offering strong support for Brown. South Florida’s 111-point outburst on Monday marked a season high.

Both teams have faced challenging non-conference schedules. UAB’s losses include narrow defeats to Troy and Wichita State. South Florida played a ranked Alabama team close in a 104-93 road loss on Dec. 17.

This contest opens a critical stretch of conference play for both squads. The game will be played at the Yuengling Center on the South Florida campus. Tip-off is scheduled for Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026.

The teams will meet again in Birmingham on Jan. 22.