The UT Arlington Lady Mavericks are back in action as they prepare to take on Florida International University (FIU) in a highly anticipated showdown on Monday, December 16. This matchup, set to take place at the College Park Center, marks the second game of the WAC/CUSA Challenge and will tip off at 4:00 p.m. As the Lady Mavs aim to maintain their undefeated home record for the 2024-25 season, fans can expect an intense battle on the court. Etruesports is here to provide an in-depth preview of this exciting contest.
Series History: A Rare but Competitive Matchup
This game marks just the second time in nearly 30 years that UT Arlington and FIU will face off. The last meeting between these teams took place in November 1996 at a neutral venue in Shreveport, Louisiana, where the Lady Mavericks secured a hard-fought 48-44 victory. However, this time around, UT Arlington will have the advantage of playing on their home court at the College Park Center, adding another layer of intrigue to the matchup.
Scouting the Opponent: FIU Panthers
The FIU Panthers enter the game with a 3-5 record and are coming off an impressive 82-60 victory over Yale on December 7. While they have struggled against WAC opponents this season (0-2), FIU remains a dangerous team with solid offensive firepower.
Key Players to Watch for FIU:
- Parris Atkins: The standout guard is averaging 14.9 points, 5.5 rebounds, 2.9 assists, and 2.9 steals per game, making her a key player to watch.
- Angena Belloso: A reliable scoring threat, she contributes 10.9 points and 4.7 rebounds per game.
FIU averages 75 points per game while shooting an efficient 46.5% from the field, making them a formidable offensive unit that UT Arlington must contain.
Lady Mavs’ Key Players and Strengths
Koi Love: Offensive and Defensive Force
Fifth-year transfer Koi Love has quickly established herself as a premier player in the Western Athletic Conference (WAC). She is currently the second-leading scorer in the conference, averaging 16.1 points per game, and ranks 119th nationally. Love is also a defensive powerhouse, averaging 2.75 steals per game.
Notable Achievements:
- Recorded a season-high 21 points in her second game, shooting 90.9% from the field—a feat last achieved in 2020.
- Has three 20-point performances this season.
- Registered two double-doubles, showcasing her versatility.
FIU Panthers (image via Getty)Avery Brittingham: Dominating the Boards
Preseason All-WAC selection Avery Brittingham has lived up to the hype, leading the conference in rebounding with 9.4 boards per game. Her impact extends beyond rebounding, as she also leads the team with 28 assists.
Key Stats:
- Fourth in the WAC with 75 total rebounds.
- Averaging 1.1 blocks per game, ranking third in the conference.
- Recorded four double-doubles in just eight games.
Lady Mavs’ Statistical Edge
- Free Throws: UT Arlington leads the WAC with 23 free throw attempts per game, ranking 13th nationally.
- Turnover Control: The Lady Mavs commit just 16.1 turnovers per game, placing them fourth in the WAC for ball security.
- Defensive Prowess: UT Arlington forces 18.63 turnovers per game and averages 10 steals per contest, ranking fifth in the conference in both categories.
Recent Performance: Lady Mavs Secure Victory Over Houston
In their latest outing, UT Arlington edged out Houston with a 61-57 victory, marking their first win against a Power 5 opponent since 2019.
Game Highlights:
- Avery Brittingham posted her fourth double-double of the season with 16 points and 10 rebounds.
- Koi Love contributed 14 points and 12 rebounds, earning her second double-double of the year.
- Freshman Kendal Robinson impressed in her first collegiate start, scoring a career-high 10 points.
- The Lady Mavs overcame a sluggish start with a dominant second-half performance, including a crucial 7-0 run to open the fourth quarter.
What to Expect on Monday
As UT Arlington prepares to take on FIU, fans can expect a competitive and high-energy matchup. With Koi Love and Avery Brittingham leading the charge, the Lady Mavs are determined to defend their home court and extend their winning streak. Their ability to control turnovers, capitalize on free throws, and maintain defensive pressure will be key factors in this game.
Stay connected with Etruesports for more updates, analysis, and in-depth coverage of college basketball and beyond. As always, Etruesports remains committed to delivering high-quality sports content and the latest news from athletics.
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