Nov. 18, 2007

Box Score

Fayetteville, NC - The Broncos allowed too much inside scoring as Central State University steals an 83-78 win from FSU during the 2007 Holiday Classic inside Capel Arena.

The match-up against the Central State University Marauders marked the season opener for Fayetteville State University. The Broncos were originally scheduled to play Lincoln University Saturday night in the annual Holiday Basketball Classic, but with the withdrawal of St. Augustine's College from the two day event, the schedule was reshuffled.

The Marauders followed the force of senior forward P.J. Mills, who finished with a game-high 29 points on nine of 12 shooting from the field and sinking 11 of 13 free throws attempted.

Senior guard Jamel Austin led all Bronco scorers with 20 points; he also dished out seven assists. Junior guard Andy Gebru dropped 18 points in the losing effort. Senior Phillippe Harris provided 11 points coming off the bench, including 3-for-3 shooting from the three point line.

The Broncos were leading at the half 39-34, but the Marauders made adjustments and improved their shooting percentages in the second half from the field, the three point line, and in free throws.

Central State was solid from the free throw line, making 24 out of 29 free throw attempts. FSU will be looking to improve on their 62.5 (15-of-24) shooting percentage from the charity stripe.

Dropping the season opener puts FSU at 0-1 for the season, and Central State improves to 2-0. The Broncos will face CIAA competition in their next match up against Virginia State University on Tuesday, November 27th in Ettrick, VA. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30pm.