The UCF Knights Men’s Basketball team got off to a hot start against the Wichita State Shockers in American Athletic Conference play on Wednesday night, amping up the crowd. The Knights won their first conference game of the season, 52-45.
UCF allowed a few early uncontested baskets, but the defense tightened up, with five blocks. In addition to eight steals, the defense created the lead by keeping the last six shots of the first half from going in, 26-23.
Point guard and team captain Darius Johnson made four clutch free throws within the last minute to quash the final push. Johnson had all over the sheet stats with 15 points, five rebounds, two assists, and four steals.
CJ Kelly recorded eight points, two blocks, and two steals while leading the Knights in rebounds. Taylor Hendricks and Brandon Suggs each scored nine points to help out as well.
It’s time to raise the difficulty level in Game 2 of conference play, as the Knights play their first of two road games on New Year’s Eve against the 3 Houston Cougars. The ECU Pirates will host the Knights on January 4th.
