The UIC Flames rounded out their regular season with a win over Valparaiso 77-73 on Sunday. UIC holds the sixth spot on the MVC leaderboard heading into Arch Madness in St. Louis on Thursday.
The Flames (17-13, 10-10 MVC) honored their five seniors before Sunday’s matchup, with an all-senior starting lineup setting the tone of the game early. Filip Skobalj, Ethan Pickett, Modestas Kancleris, Tyem Freeman, and Koby Jefferies were all recognized. Skobalj, who has been vital to the Flames’ long-range scoring efforts all season, sank his 61st 3-pointer of the season. Kancleris surpassed Sasa Ciani to lead the team in rebounds.
Despite the offensive efforts of the Flames’ seniors and a near-season-high 17 points off the bench from Ahmad Henderson II, the reins of Sunday’s competition was clearly decided defensively. Valparaiso’s Cooper Schwieger scored 33 points, and All Wright followed closely behind with 24.
Graduating senior Tyem Freeman had a career game, setting new personal records in three stat categories. Freeman led the Flames on both sides of the ball, perfectly executing plays to set his teammates up for success. He contributed a team-high four assists across 31 minutes. A picture-perfect block from the Missouri native in Sunday’s last-minute secured the win for the Flames.
With this win under the leadership of first-year head coach Rob Ehsan, the Flames have already secured their second-highest conference record in the last decade. In addition, this year’s UIC squad holds the highest overall winning percentage since they last appeared in the NCAA Tournament in 2003.
“It’s been a super emotional day,” Ehsan said. “We honored five guys that have meant so much to our program, especially this year. The win and this game’s ending for them is so fitting, it’s been such a great year for us.”
UIC will take the court for MVC Arch Madness, beginning later this week. The tournament tips off Thursday afternoon, with the Flames taking on the Beacons (13-18, 6-14 MVC) for the third time this season at 9:30 pm ET.
