Facing Tarleton State at home, SUU battled to win in a scrappy matchup that sets up a rivalry rematch against Utah Valley.
The game against the Texans was a defensive battle, with neither team gaining an edge in the first half. The largest lead of the opening frame was seven points for Tarleton State.
The T-birds struggled from the field in the first half, shooting just 35% (8-of-23) while heading to halftime down by six.
Despite the game’s ugly nature, it was far from over as the second half began.
Tarleton State stretched its lead to 10 – its largest of the game – at the 13:13 mark before SUU rallied back.
The T-birds took their time to chip away at the deficit, finally knotting the score at 52 with just under six and a half minutes to go.
After the Texans regained a three-point advantage, SUU recorded five straight points to take a 57-55 lead, the T-birds’ first since 8-7.
Tarleton answered with a three-pointer, but Southern Utah wanted to no part of a possible home loss. SUU scored the next 13 points in the game, taking a 12-point lead while closing out the 72-62 victory.
Following a dismal first-half performance, the T-birds’ offense stepped up in the second half, shooting 76.9% (10-13). SUU also won the battle at the free throw line, making 29-of-34 foul shots (85.3%) in a game that had a combined 48 fouls called.
Drake Allen was the top scorer for the T-birds, recording 19 points. Harrison Butler added a double-double of 17 points and 11 rebounds in the win.
Up next
The win improves Southern Utah’s record to 17-8 overall, including a 9-3 WAC mark.
SUU now travels to Orem to face Utah Valley with first place on the line.
The game against the Wolverines (19-6, 10-2 WAC) will tip off at 6 p.m. on Saturday, February 11, and can be seen on ESPN+.
