College Article Feature: Come back is real

Written by Maxim Voronin | University of Utah

After their previous defeat, the Salt Lake City Stars decided to bounce back and show who’s in charge with a thrilling back-to-back victory over the Texas Legends, 125-134. The Stars proved they could overcome adversity, rallying from a 24-point deficit that Texas had built late in the first half.

From the start, the Stars struggled defensively, committing turnovers and struggling offensively, failing to hit a three-pointer until four minutes into the first quarter. Despite briefly falling behind by 10 points, the team rallied and managed to close the gap to 37-33 by the end of the first quarter. However, Texas then turned up the intensity in the second quarter, scoring 44 points while holding the Stars to just 26 — the lowest scoring quarter for the Stars in this game. The teams went into halftime with Texas leading 81-59, and many thought this would be the Stars’ second defeat in a row.

By halftime, Texas had shot 31/48 FG (65%), 9/17 3PM (53%), 1/4 FT, and 20 assists. The Stars had shot 23/51 FG (45%), 7/22 3PM (32%), 3/6 FT, and 11 assists.

The Stars came out strong in the second half, setting their own pace and dominating the game. They went on a 6-22 run early in the third quarter, forcing their opponents into mistakes, turnovers, and difficult shots. Thanks to their tenacity and teamwork, they managed to take their first lead of the game with one minute left in the third quarter. This was the first and only lead change of the entire game.

Once the Stars had the lead, they never lost their nerve and continued to dominate in the third and fourth quarters, gradually increasing their advantage. A team that had been down by 24 points was now in control, eventually winning by 9.

Jazz two-way player Blake Hinson made his debut for the Stars today and was one of the key factors in the comeback. He finished with 36 points, including 14/24 shooting (58%) and 5/13 3PM (38%). He was the game’s leading scorer.

Abmas was also crucial, contributing 18 points and 8 assists (most on the team). His driving layup helped propel the team forward. Crowl, who has now recorded three straight double-doubles, finished with 10 points and 13 rebounds, going a perfect 5/5 from the field.

Seven out of nine Stars players scored over 10 points in this game, showcasing their cohesion and the system that head coach Rick Higgins is building.

Texas was led by Dalano Banton, who scored 30 points on 11/27 shooting (41%) and added nine assists. Jeremiah Robinson-Earl recorded a double-double with 11 points, 13 rebounds, and 7 assists.

The Stars now look ahead to a five-game road trip, starting with their next matchup on March 13 against the Rio Grande Valley Vipers. Can the Stars continue their momentum and secure the first win of their back-to-back road series?