BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (Interstat) — A pivotal early American Athletic Conference clash awaits Wednesday afternoon at Bartow Arena as the UAB Blazers host the Florida Atlantic Owls. Both teams enter with momentum from contrasting performances in their league openers this past Sunday. UAB (10-5, 1-0 AAC) outlasted South Florida 109-106 in a double-overtime thriller on the road, while Florida Atlantic (9-6, 0-1) fell just short in a 69-66 loss at Tulane. The Blazers’ victory was powered by a career-high 24 points and six assists from guard Chance Westry, who logged 39 minutes. Westry has been a dynamic force, averaging 21.2 points over his last five games, including a 31-point outburst against Cleveland State on Dec. 17. The Owls will counter with their own standout guard in Isaiah Elohim. He is coming off a near double-double in the Tulane loss, posting 13 points and nine rebounds. Elohim has scored in double figures in six consecutive games, providing consistent production for an FAU offense that has shown high-scoring potential in non-conference wins. UAB’s home court has been a fortress this season, where they boast a 7-1 record. Their offense ranks among the nation’s most potent, averaging 88.1 points per game in home contests. Florida Atlantic, however, has proven capable on the road, securing key wins at Loyola Marymount and Florida Gulf Coast earlier this season. The matchup features two of the AAC’s most explosive backcourts. Containing Westry will be a primary focus for the Owls, while the Blazers must account for Elohim and guard Kanaan Carlyle, who added 10 points and seven rebounds against Tulane. With both teams eyeing a strong start in the conference race, Wednesday’s contest offers an immediate opportunity to gain a critical edge. A win for UAB would solidify their strong opening, while FAU aims to avoid an 0-2 conference start before returning home. Tip-off is scheduled for 8 p.m. EST. The game will be broadcast on ESPN2.