In an emotional and action-packed evening, the University of South Florida Bulls (12-11, 5-5) secured a 100-91 double-overtime victory over the Temple Owls (14-9, 6-4) at the Yuengling Center. The game not only showcased incredible on-court performances but also served as a tribute to the late Amir Abdur-Rahim, whose contributions to the sport were honored in a pre-game ceremony.
Honoring Amir Abdur-Rahim
During the under-eight media timeout in the first half, Commissioner Tim Pernetti, alongside USF President Rhea Law and Vice President for Athletics Michael Kelly, recognized Abdur-Rahim’s legacy by naming him the Honorary 2024-25 American Men’s Basketball Coach of the Year. To honor his impact, the American Athletic Conference donated $15,000—Abdur-Rahim’s contracted bonus for the award—to the Future Foundation, a cause dear to his family. Additionally, the conference established the Amir Abdur-Rahim Sportsmanship Award, which will be presented annually to the men’s basketball player who exemplifies fair play and leadership.
A Nail-Biting Battle to the Finish
The Bulls and Owls put on a show, with both teams displaying grit and determination from the opening tip-off. With the game tied at 79-79 and just 18 seconds left in regulation, Temple designed a final shot opportunity. The Owls’ Zion Stanford attempted a game-winning jumper, but Jamille Reynolds came up with a massive block, forcing the game into overtime.
In the first overtime, Brandon Stroud and Kobe Knox led the charge, contributing critical points to keep the Bulls alive. As the teams headed into a second extra period, Jayden Reid’s three-pointer and consecutive dunks by Knox helped South Florida finally break free. Though the Bulls went without a field goal for the final 2:31, they locked down defensively, limiting Temple to 0-for-6 shooting in the closing minutes while sealing the win with six clutch free throws.
Dominant Performances Lead the Way
Reynolds delivered the best game of his career, finishing with a double-double of 25 points and 12 rebounds. He also recorded a game-high four blocks, including the pivotal swat that sent the contest into overtime. Knox added 17 points, six rebounds, four assists, two blocks, and a steal in a well-rounded performance. Stroud also shined with his first double-double of the season, scoring 15 points and pulling down 10 rebounds.
USF’s depth played a crucial role, as Quincy Ademokoya (11 points, five rebounds) and CJ Brown (10 assists, eight points) made key contributions off the bench. Brown’s assist tally marked the second straight season in which a Bulls freshman has reached double-digit assists in a game.
Temple’s Strong Effort Falls Short
Despite missing star player Jamal Mashburn Jr., Temple fought valiantly, led by Zion Stanford’s 23 points and six rebounds. Steve Settle III added a double-double with 21 points and 10 rebounds, while Aiden Tobiason contributed 14 points. However, the Owls struggled in the second overtime, failing to convert key opportunities down the stretch.
Key Team Stats and Takeaways
- USF’s bench outscored Temple’s reserves 51-42, marking the 17th time this season the Bulls held an edge in bench scoring.
- The Bulls dominated in the paint, outscoring Temple 52-42 in that category.
- South Florida also held a 21-8 advantage in fastbreak points.
- USF outrebounded Temple 52-49, a key factor in their second-chance opportunities.
- The Bulls recorded 26 assists on 37 made field goals, emphasizing strong ball movement throughout the contest.
Looking Ahead
The Bulls will return to action on Sunday, February 9, when they host Wichita State at the Yuengling Center. Tip-off is set for 2 p.m. ET and will be streamed live on ESPN+.
South Florida’s thrilling victory not only keeps their postseason hopes alive but also ensures that Amir Abdur-Rahim’s legacy will be remembered through excellence on and off the court.
THE CONVERSATION.