Game Preview: Fayetteville State vs. Livingstone Men's Basketball

Get ready for an electrifying showdown as the Fayetteville State Broncos take on the Livingstone Blue Bears in a highly anticipated men's basketball matchup.

Date: January 28, 2025
Time: 7:30 PM
Location: Capel Arena, Fayetteville, NC
Tickets: fsubroncos.com/tickets
Broadcast Links: fsubroncos.com/gameday

Fayetteville State
Fayetteville State has had a strong season so far, with an overall record of 13-6 and a conference record of 6-3. The team has demonstrated solid scoring ability, averaging 73.2 points per game, and has outscored their opponents by an average margin of 5.4 points. Their defensive efforts have been impressive, forcing turnovers and converting them into points.

Key Players

• Caleb Simmons (#01): Averaging 18.0 points per game, Simmons is a key offensive weapon for the Broncos. His shooting accuracy (50.0% FG, 40.8% 3PT) and ability to contribute across the board with 9.4 rebounds and 1.6 steals per game make him a player to watch.
• Tairell Fletcher (#00): With averages of 17.3 points, 4.5 assists, and 2.7 rebounds per game, Fletcher is a versatile player who can impact the game in multiple ways. His three-point shooting percentage of 46.9% is a significant asset.
• Ezekiel Cannedy (#11): Averaging 15.9 points per game, Cannedy is a reliable scorer with a free throw percentage of 89.8%. He also contributes 3.2 rebounds and 1.2 assists per game.

 
Livingstone
Livingstone has faced some challenges this season, with an overall record of 9-10 and a conference record of 2-7. Despite these challenges, the team has shown resilience and strength, particularly in rebounding and generating steals. They average 79.0 points per game but have struggled defensively, allowing 72.8 points per game.

Key Players

• Jamal Cannady Jr. (#01): A dominant force, Cannady averages 17.5 points and 3.1 rebounds per game. His ability to score efficiently and contribute with 2.2 assists per game makes him a key player to watch.
• James Nipper (#06): Contributing 10.9 points and 4.2 rebounds per game, Nipper is a versatile player who also averages 1.7 steals per game, highlighting his defensive prowess.
• King Ijeoma (#34): Averaging 8.5 points and 7.3 rebounds per game, Ijeoma adds depth to Livingstone's scoring and rebounding efforts.

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 Prowess: The team excels in forcing turnovers and converting them into points, averaging 15.1 points off turnovers per game.
• Free Throw Accuracy: With a free throw percentage of 81.0%, Fayetteville State can capitalize on opportunities at the line, especially in close games.

Team Strengths

• Rebounding Strength: Livingstone averages 36.9 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 7.9 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	13-6, 6-3 CIAA	9-10, 2-7 CIAA
Points Per Game	73.2	79.0
Assists Per Game	10.2	10.3
Turnovers Per Game	11.7	12.8
Steals Per Game	6.3	7.9
Blocks Per Game	3.2	3.7

Key Matchups

• Caleb Simmons vs. Jamal Cannady Jr.: Both players are key scorers and leaders for their teams. Simmons' offensive skills and rebounding will be tested against Cannady's scoring and playmaking ability.
• Tairell Fletcher vs. James Nipper: This matchup will be a battle of versatility and defensive prowess. Fletcher's all-around game will be crucial in countering Nipper's scoring and defensive impact.
• Ezekiel Cannedy vs. King Ijeoma: Cannedy's scoring and free throw accuracy will be key in limiting Ijeoma'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 Jamal Cannady Jr., 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 matchups.

This game promises to be a competitive and thrilling encounter, with both teams looking to secure a crucial win in their conference play.