BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (Interstat) — A surging UAB looks to solidify its postseason positioning when it hosts an East Carolina team seeking to salvage its regular season finale on Sunday, March 8, 2026.

The Blazers (19-11) enter having won three of their last four, including an 80-74 road victory at Charlotte on Wednesday. Guard Chance Westry was instrumental in that win, posting 20 points and 11 assists. Over his last five games, Westry is averaging 18.4 points and 7.6 assists, serving as the catalyst for UAB’s offense.

Conversely, the Pirates (11-19) are reeling from a 93-66 home loss to Tulsa on Thursday, their seventh defeat in the last ten games. Their season has been defined by narrow setbacks, including five losses by five points or fewer and a double-overtime defeat to Wichita State.

The lone previous meeting this season was a classic, with UAB escaping Greenville, North Carolina, with an 87-85 overtime win on Jan. 11.

This rematch features a compelling backcourt duel. East Carolina’s hopes rest largely on the prolific scoring of guard Jordan Riley, who is averaging 26.1 points over his last seven games. He erupted for 40 points in a double-overtime loss to Wichita State on Feb. 18 and scored 31 in a win over Memphis on March 1. Containing Riley will be a primary focus for a UAB defense that has held its last two opponents under 75 points.

For UAB, Westry’s all-around play will be key. His ability to score and create for teammates like Evan Chatman, who had 19 points against Charlotte, gives the Blazers a balanced attack. UAB has been strong at home this season, boasting a 12-3 record in Birmingham.

East Carolina, just 3-9 in true road games, will need more secondary scoring alongside Riley to challenge the Blazers. The Pirates’ last road win was a one-point thriller at Texas-San Antonio on Feb. 25.

Tip-off is set for Sunday afternoon at Bartow Arena. UAB can reach the 20-win mark with a victory, while East Carolina aims to build momentum before conference tournament play begins.