Game Preview: Fayetteville State Broncos vs. Shaw Bears Women's Basketball
The Fayetteville State Broncos are prepared to take on the Shaw Bears in what promises to be a thrilling match-up.
Date: January 16, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: C. C. Spaulding Gymnasium, Raleigh, NC
Gameday Links:
fsubroncos.com/gameday
Fayetteville State Broncos
The Fayetteville State Broncos have had a commendable season so far, with a 9-6 overall record and a 4-2 mark in CIAA play. Their performance has been characterized by balanced scoring and strong defensive efforts. The Broncos have shown resilience and consistency, making them a formidable opponent in the conference. Key players like
Talia Trotter and
Keayna McLaughlin have been instrumental in their success, contributing significantly in scoring, rebounding, and playmaking. As they prepare to face the Shaw Bears, the Broncos will look to leverage their strengths and continue their winning momentum.
Key Players to Watch
- Talia Trotter (#30): Averaging 13.1 points per game, Trotter is a key offensive weapon for the Broncos. Her shooting accuracy (47.4% FG) and ability to contribute across the board make her a player to watch.
- Keayna McLaughlin (#15): With averages of 10.5 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game, McLaughlin is a versatile player who can impact the game in multiple ways.
- Morgan Graham (#04): Leading the team in rebounds with 6.6 per game, Graham's presence in the paint is crucial for the Broncos' defense and second-chance opportunities.
Team Strengths
- Balanced Scoring: The Broncos have multiple players who can score, making them difficult to defend.
- Rebounding: With players like Graham and McLaughlin, the Broncos are strong on the boards, both offensively and defensively.
Shaw Bears
The Shaw Bears have faced a challenging season, currently holding a 5-9 overall record and a 2-3 record in the CIAA. Despite their record, the Bears have shown flashes of brilliance and are determined to turn their season around. Players like D'Ayzha Akinson and Zaniyyah Ross-Barnes have been standout performers, providing scoring and rebounding dominance. The Bears' ability to shoot from beyond the arc and their strong presence in the paint will be crucial as they aim to secure a victory against the Broncos. With a focus on improving their consistency, the Bears are ready to compete and showcase their potential.
Key Players to Watch
- D'Ayzha Akinson (#25): Despite playing only six games, Akinson has been impressive, averaging 14.7 points and 5.7 rebounds per game. Her scoring ability and rebounding make her a key player for the Bears.
- Zaniyyah Ross-Barnes (#05): Averaging 11.6 points and 7.9 rebounds per game, Ross-Barnes is a dominant force on the boards and a reliable scorer.
- Keibra Hopkins (#04): Contributing 8.4 points and 4.9 rebounds per game, Hopkins adds depth to the Bears' lineup with her all-around play.
Team Strengths
- Rebounding: Ross-Barnes and Akinson provide a strong presence in the paint, helping the Bears control the glass.
- Three-Point Shooting: The Bears have several players who can shoot from beyond the arc, adding a dangerous element to their offense.
Team Statistics
| Statistic |
Fayetteville State Broncos |
Shaw Bears |
| Record |
(9-6, 4-2 CIAA) |
(5-9, 2-3 CIAA) |
| Points Per Game |
65.7 |
60.4 |
| Rebounds Per Game |
37.8 |
40.0 |
| Assists Per Game |
14.4 |
13.6 |
| Turnovers Per Game |
16.9 |
22.8 |
| Steals Per Game |
10.9 |
8.9 |
| Blocks Per Game |
4.3 |
6.8 |
Key Match-Ups
- Talia Trotter vs. D'Ayzha Akinson: Both players are their team's leading scorers and will be crucial in determining the game's outcome.
- Morgan Graham vs. Zaniyyah Ross-Barnes: This battle in the paint will be key, as both players are strong rebounders and defenders.
- Blocking Leaders: Both Fayetteville State and Shaw boast the conference leaders in blocks, which will be a significant factor in this game. This defensive showdown in the paint will be a key aspect to watch, as both teams look to dominate the interior and control the game's tempo.
This match-up promises to be an exciting contest between two teams with different strengths and key players who can change the game's dynamics. Keep an eye on the key match-ups and enjoy the game!
