Texas A&M-Corpus Christi Islanders vs. UT Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros: Game Preview and Insights
The Texas A&M-Corpus Christi Islanders (3-13) are gearing up to host the UT Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros (9-9) in a highly anticipated Southland matchup. Scheduled for Thursday, January 22, 2026, the game is set to tip off at 8 p.m. ET at the American Bank Center.
Recent Performances
In their most recent outing, Texas A&M-Corpus Christi claimed a narrow victory against Southeastern Louisiana with a score of 68-65. K’Nari Holliday emerged as a pivotal player, netting 16 points to help secure the win. Conversely, UT Rio Grande Valley faced a setback against McNeese, losing 70-54, with Erin Maguire leading her team with nine points along with two assists and three rebounds.
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When and Where to Watch
Game Date: Thursday, January 22, 2026
Start Time: 8 p.m. ET
Venue: American Bank Center
For those interested in attending the game, tickets are available through Vivid Seats.
Streaming Options
If you can’t make it to the venue, tune in to the game via ESPN+ for a live stream.
Game Preview: Texas A&M-Corpus Christi Islanders vs. UT Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros
Texas A&M-Corpus Christi Statistics and Insights
The Islanders are grappling with a -158 scoring differential, averaging just 58.1 points per game, ranking them 311th in college basketball. Their defensive performance has also been concerning, allowing 68.0 points per game, which places them 268th in the rankings.
On average, Texas A&M-Corpus Christi scores 10.5 points fewer than their opponents allow. The Islanders have been particularly challenged offensively, managing only 56.3 points per game over their last ten matchups, down from their season average of 58.1.
At home, the Islanders have witnessed a slight boost, scoring 65.3 points per game, which is 12.7 points higher than their away average of 52.6.
UT Rio Grande Valley Statistics and Insights
The Vaqueros, on the other hand, have a -57 scoring differential, averaging 65.4 points per game and surrendering 68.6 points, which ranks them 280th nationally. This marks a closer average gap in points, as they score 2.6 fewer points per game than the Islanders give up.
From beyond the arc, UT Rio Grande Valley knocks down 6.0 three-pointers per game while shooting 28.8% from long distance. Their opponents, however, have been more effective, hitting 7.2 three-pointers at 32.8%.
Throughout their last ten games, the Vaqueros have averaged 64.5 points, slightly below their season average.
Key Players to Watch
Texas A&M-Corpus Christi Islanders Leaders
| Player | Games Played | Points | Rebounds | Assists | Steals | Blocks | 3-Point Makes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Samora Watson | 15 | 13.0 | 4.7 | 2.5 | 1.7 | 0.2 | 0.3 |
| Chelsea Wooten | 16 | 9.0 | 3.4 | 3.6 | 1.5 | 0.0 | 2.1 |
| Marissa Shelton | 16 | 8.4 | 3.3 | 1.6 | 0.9 | 0.1 | 1.6 |
| Asha Walker | 16 | 8.1 | 2.6 | 0.4 | 0.7 | 0.1 | 2.3 |
| K’Nari Holliday | 16 | 7.1 | 6.1 | 0.9 | 0.9 | 0.8 | 0.0 |
UT Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros Leaders
| Player | Games Played | Points | Rebounds | Assists | Steals | Blocks | 3-Point Makes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jalayah Ingram | 16 | 17.1 | 5.6 | 3.3 | 1.8 | 0.7 | 0.2 |
| Charlotte O’Keefe | 12 | 10.8 | 12.9 | 1.8 | 1.8 | 1.8 | 0.6 |
| Erin Maguire | 16 | 8.7 | 3.2 | 3.3 | 1.0 | 0.1 | 0.8 |
| Chazlyn Dettor | 18 | 8.6 | 4.9 | 0.9 | 0.4 | 0.1 | 0.2 |
| Gianna Angiolet | 13 | 6.5 | 3.1 | 1.4 | 0.4 | 0.0 | 1.2 |
Conclusion
As Texas A&M-Corpus Christi faces off against UT Rio Grande Valley, all eyes will be on key players like Samora Watson for the Islanders and Jalayah Ingram for the Vaqueros. With both teams struggling yet showing signs of potential, this match promises to deliver excitement for fans and an opportunity for both teams to prove their mettle.
Secure your position at the game by purchasing tickets from Vivid Seats, or follow the live updates on ESPN+ as the action unfolds! For further insights on college basketball, explore the latest NCAA basketball picks and betting strategies.
