CHICAGO – Belmont University’s men’s basketball team pulled off a thrilling 68-62 victory over UIC. Tyler Lundblade led the charge with an impressive 24 points, showcasing his skills as the reigning NCAA 3-point champion. His six 3-pointers helped propel Belmont to its ninth consecutive win, keeping them on top of the Missouri Valley Conference standings.
Interestingly, Belmont stands out nationally with 12 away game victories, more than powerhouse programs like SMU and UCLA combined. This season, they’ve tallied 22 wins, tying them with elite teams like Arizona and Gonzaga.
Belmont’s recent performance includes notable achievements, such as being the first MVC team in 44 years to have back-to-back 100-point games in conference play. This demonstrates their offensive prowess and adaptability, particularly in a game where they faced foul trouble among key players.
UIC, ranked among the top 60 teams nationally, was excited to host its first nationally-televised game in six years, drawing a substantial home crowd. Early in the game, Belmont established dominance with a quick 8-0 start. UIC attempted a comeback, but Belmont finished the first half strong, leading 38-26.
In the second half, UIC found its rhythm with Mekhi Lowery leading the charge. However, Belmont’s defense held strong, limiting UIC’s scoring chances. Another standout moment was when Elijah Crawford, who had been quiet until the late stages, scored eight points in just over three minutes, narrowing the gap to 62-58.
The game showcased Belmont’s strategic play, featuring 19 assists and six blocked shots. Notably, Lundblade and Aidan Noyes were critical in extending Belmont’s lead at pivotal moments, allowing them to secure the win.
With this victory, Belmont continues its impressive streak. Over the years, they’ve been a formidable presence in postseason play, with nine NCAA Tournament berths and numerous conference championships. They’ve consistently achieved over 20 wins per season, marking 16 consecutive years of success. This is not just about numbers; it’s also about the culture of excellence fostered within the program.
To stay updated on Belmont basketball, check out their social media channels on X and Instagram.
For more on college sports trends and statistics, explore resources like the NCAA official website.
