UTSA men’s basketball team staged a stunning second-half comeback to defeat Georgia Southern 77-64 in the Jacksonville Classic on November 25, 2025, in Jacksonville, Florida. Powered by strong defense and key scoring runs, the Roadrunners overcame a double-digit deficit to improve their record and build momentum in the early season.
Game Highlights and Turning Points
The match started with Georgia Southern building an early lead through sharp shooting and quick transitions. They went on an 11-0 run in the first half to pull ahead by 13 points with about eight minutes left before the break.
UTSA fought back hard, answering with a 13-0 spurt of their own to tie the game just before halftime. The Eagles opened the second half strong, scoring the first eight points to regain a double-digit advantage.
The Roadrunners then locked down on defense, holding Georgia Southern without a field goal for nearly 11 minutes. This sparked an 18-3 run that gave UTSA a 58-48 lead with seven minutes remaining, and they never looked back.
Georgia Southern struggled to recover, shooting just 30.4 percent from the field overall and 23.5 percent from beyond the arc. They also converted only 57.9 percent of their free throws, which hurt their chances in the closing moments.
Standout Performances from UTSA Players
Jamir Simpson led the charge for UTSA with 22 points and seven rebounds, showcasing his scoring ability and presence on the boards. His efforts were crucial in both halves, especially during the rally.
Brent Moss added 19 points and eight rebounds, providing a strong inside presence and helping control the paint. Macaleab Rich came off the bench for 11 points, eight rebounds, and two blocks in just 17 minutes, making a big impact in limited time.
Other contributors included players who stepped up in key moments, with the team focusing on balanced scoring and rebounding. UTSA outrebounded Georgia Southern, which proved vital in maintaining possession during their runs.
The Roadrunners’ bench depth played a role, as reserves like Rich provided energy and defensive stops when starters needed rest.
Defensive Strategy That Sealed the Victory
Defense was the story for UTSA in this game. They forced turnovers and limited second-chance opportunities, which fueled their transition offense.
Coach Austin Claunch emphasized pressure defense in practices leading up to the tournament, and it paid off here. The team held the Eagles to low shooting percentages and disrupted their rhythm.
This win marks a positive step for UTSA, who entered the Jacksonville Classic after a loss to Abilene Christian the day before. It shows their ability to bounce back under pressure.
In comparison, Georgia Southern had just lost to Youngstown State in the same event, highlighting the competitive nature of the classic.
Team Records and Tournament Context
UTSA improved to 4-3 with this victory, bouncing back from early season challenges. Georgia Southern fell to 3-5, struggling to find consistency.
The Jacksonville Classic featured several mid-major teams, including matchups like Youngstown State versus UNC-Greensboro. UTSA’s performance adds to their resume as they prepare for American Athletic Conference play.
Here is a quick look at the final stats:
| Category | UTSA | Georgia Southern |
|---|---|---|
| Points | 77 | 64 |
| Field Goal % | 45.2 | 30.4 |
| 3-Point % | 28.6 | 23.5 |
| Rebounds | 45 | 38 |
| Turnovers | 12 | 15 |
This table shows UTSA’s edge in efficiency and board control.
Broader Implications for UTSA Season
This rally win boosts confidence for the Roadrunners as they head into the rest of their non-conference schedule. With games against tough opponents ahead, including potential matchups in upcoming tournaments, this shows their resilience.
UTSA has a history of strong performances in multi-team events, and this adds to their growing reputation. Fans are excited about the team’s potential under Coach Claunch, who continues to build a competitive program.
Looking ahead, UTSA faces more challenges, but wins like this could help in building toward a postseason berth.
What Fans Are Saying and Next Steps
Social media buzzed with praise for UTSA’s comeback, with fans highlighting the defensive effort and key players’ contributions. Many noted how this win could spark a hot streak.
For Georgia Southern, the loss points to areas needing improvement, like free-throw shooting and late-game execution.
As the season progresses, keep an eye on UTSA’s progress. What do you think about this comeback? Share your thoughts in the comments and spread the word to fellow fans.
