TAMPA, Fla. (UCFKnights.com) - The UCF women's basketball team came up short in the first go-round of the War On I-4 rivalry series. The Knights dropped a 62-45 decision to No. 25 South Florida in the Sun Dome on Sunday afternoon.
The Bulls added three points to their total in the War on I-4 rivalry series. UCF now leads 21-12 in the overall standings.
UCF (11-7, 3-2 The American) traded baskets with USF (14-4, 4-1 The American) to open the game, but the Bulls outscored the Knights 7-2 to close the frame with a 13-8 advantage. Sophomore Korneila Wright sank a pair of free throws to open the second quarter and pulled UCF within three, 13-10, but USF poured in 21 points over the final 7:27 to take a 34-14 edge into the locker rooms.
UCF put together scoring spurts in the third and fourth quarters, but were unable to get any closer than 17 points, 36-19, at the 7:45 mark in the third quarter. Freshman Ruona Uwusiaba pulled UCF within the same margin for the final score, 62-45.
Zakiya Saunders led UCF with 12 points. Korneila Wright added 10 points with four rebounds and three steals. Nyala Shuler led the Knights with six rebounds, and Masseny Kaba pulled down five boards for the Black and Gold.
NEXT UP
UCF returns to CFE Arena for a two-game homestand. The Knights host Tulane on Jan. 17, followed by SMU on Jan. 20.
SEASON TICKETS
The UCF women's basketball team is set for its second season under head coach Katie Abrahamson-Henderson. Season tickets are on sale now for $40. Click here or call (407) 823-1000 for ticket information.
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