Game Preview: Fayetteville State vs. Livingstone Women's Basketball
Date: January 28, 2025
Time: 5:30 PM
Location: Capel Arena, Fayetteville, NC
Tickets: fsubroncos.com/tickets
Broadcast Links:
fsubroncos.com/gameday
The upcoming match-up between Fayetteville State and Livingstone promises to be an exciting contest, showcasing the strengths and talents of both teams.
Fayetteville State
Fayetteville State has had a promising season so far, with an overall record of 12-6 and a conference record of 7-2. The team has demonstrated solid scoring ability, averaging 65.7 points per game, and has outscored their opponents by an average margin of 10.1 points. Their defensive efforts have been impressive, forcing turnovers and converting them into points.
Key Players
- Talia Trotter (#30): Averaging 13.2 points per game, Trotter is a key offensive weapon for the Broncos. Her shooting accuracy (47.0% FG) and ability to contribute across the board with 2.9 assists and 1.5 steals per game make her a player to watch.
- Keayna McLaughlin (#15): With averages of 11.7 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game, McLaughlin is a versatile player who can impact the game in multiple ways. Her free throw percentage of 86.5% is a significant asset in close games.
- Morgan Graham (#04): Leading the team in rebounds with 6.8 per game, Graham's presence in the paint is crucial for the Broncos' defense and second-chance opportunities.
Team Strengths
- Scoring and Offensive Efficiency: Fayetteville State has a solid scoring average and a positive scoring margin, indicating their ability to outscore opponents consistently.
- Defensive Skills: The team excels in forcing turnovers and converting them into points, averaging 20.6 points off turnovers per game.
- Free Throw Accuracy: With a free throw percentage of 70.6%, Fayetteville State can capitalize on opportunities at the line, especially in close games.
Livingstone
Livingstone has faced some challenges this season, with an overall record of 6-13 and a conference record of 4-4. Despite these challenges, the team has shown resilience and strength, particularly in rebounding and generating steals. They average 69.3 points per game but have struggled defensively, allowing 72.4 points per game.
Key Players
- Morgan Kelson (#30): A dominant force, Kelson averages 14.9 points and 11.2 rebounds per game. Her ability to control the paint and score efficiently makes her a key player to watch.
- Thalia Carter (#21): Contributing 11.9 points and 5.8 rebounds per game, Carter is a versatile player who also averages 2.3 steals per game, highlighting her defensive skills.
- Bria Griffith (#02): Averaging 10.9 points and 5.3 rebounds per game, Griffith adds depth to Livingstone's scoring and rebounding efforts.
Team Strengths
- Rebounding Strength: Livingstone averages 40.6 rebounds per game, showcasing their ability to control the boards and create second-chance opportunities.
- Steal Generation: The team is adept at generating steals, averaging 11.0 per game, which can disrupt the opponent's offensive flow.
- Scoring Ability: Despite their challenges, Livingstone has a higher scoring average than Fayetteville State, indicating their potential to put up points.
Team Stats Comparison
| Statistic |
Fayetteville State |
Livingstone |
| Record |
12-6, 7-2 CIAA |
6-13, 4-4 CIAA |
| Points Per Game |
65.7 |
69.3 |
| Rebounds Per Game |
37.3 |
40.6 |
| Assists Per Game |
14.3 |
11.5 |
| Turnovers Per Game |
16.5 |
20.7 |
| Steals Per Game |
11.0 |
11.0 |
| Blocks Per Game |
3.8 |
2.2 |
Key Match-ups
Talia Trotter vs. Morgan Kelson: Both players are key scorers and leaders for their teams. Trotter's offensive skills will be tested against Kelson's scoring and rebounding ability.
Keayna McLaughlin vs. Thalia Carter: This match-up will be a battle of versatility and defensive skill. McLaughlin's all-around game will be crucial in countering Carter's scoring and defensive impact.
Morgan Graham vs. Bria Griffith: Graham's rebounding and defensive presence will be key in limiting Griffith's contributions in scoring and rebounding.
Game Outlook
Fayetteville State's ability to force turnovers and convert them into points will be a significant factor in this game. Livingstone's rebounding strength and scoring ability, led by Morgan Kelson, will challenge Fayetteville State's defense. The outcome of this game may hinge on which team can better execute their strengths and capitalize on key match-ups.
This game promises to be a competitive and thrilling encounter, with both teams looking to secure a crucial win in their conference play. Don't forget it's Western Buckin' Broncos Night, so wear your cowboy hat and boots!
