It was a great atmosphere at CFE Arena as the UCF Knights took down the UConn Huskies for the second time this season and the third time in a row. A once 15 point lead for UCF was cut down to two with two minutes left in the game. The Knights were able to hang on for their 16th win of the season.

Highlights

Three in the Key

1. Knight of the Night

B.J. Taylor lead the Knights in scoring as he’s done many times in the past. He’s had some offensive struggles at times this season, but his 21 points were huge for the Knights tonight. He was even 9-10 from the free-throw line which is an area UCF has struggled with all season. It was a classic B.J. Taylor performance which is just what the doctor ordered after a tough Memphis loss.

2. Sixth Man of the Game

Cesar DeJesus has seen a significant decrease in playing time this season. Last year, he averaged 27.4 minutes per game as a redshirt freshman. This year, he’s averaged just over 13 minutes. With Collin Smith getting into foul trouble early, DeJesus was able to see some extended playing time and he shined. He was a perfect 4-4 from the floor with 11 total points. When he’s on, there’s nobody who can drive the ball better.

3. By the Numbers

It was UCF’s largest home crowd of the season with 5,016 in attendance. As the Knights keep winning, the hope is that the crowds keep growing. UCF’s remaining home slate features the toughest teams in the American. They’ll welcome #13 Houston, USF, Memphis, SMU and Cincinnati. Johnny Dawkins is hoping the fans come out in force to support this team down the stretch.

Who’s Got Next?

#13 Houston, the best team in the American and lock for the NCAA Tournament, comes to Orlando to take on the Knights next Thursday, February 7th. The game will take place at CFE Arena at 7pm and can be watched on CBSSN.