Game Preview: Fayetteville State vs. Claflin Women's Basketball
Date: January 25, 2025
Time: 1:00 PM
Location: Tullis Arena, Orangeburg SC
Tickets: Claflin tickets
Broadcast Link:
HBCU GO TV
Fayetteville State Broncos
The Fayetteville State Broncos have had a strong season, particularly in conference play with an 8-2 record. Their defense and rebounding have been standout aspects, helping them secure key victories. The team has shown resilience on the road with a 6-4 away record and remains undefeated in divisional play. Key players like
Talia Trotter and
Keayna McLaughlin have been instrumental in their success.
Key Players
- Talia Trotter is the leading scorer for the Broncos, averaging 13.6 points per game. She is efficient from the field, shooting 47.5%, and contributes significantly on both ends of the court.
- Keayna McLaughlin is a versatile player, averaging 11.2 points and 5.1 rebounds per game. Her ability to score inside and out makes her a key offensive threat.
- Morgan Graham continues to be a dominant force in the paint, averaging 7.3 points and 6.5 rebounds per game. Her defensive presence and rebounding skills are crucial for the team's success.
- Nyah Wilkins is a strong rebounder, averaging 5.5 rebounds per game, and contributes defensively with her shot-blocking ability.
Team Strength
The Broncos excel in defense and rebounding, often winning the turnover -battle and dominating the offensive glass. Their ability to pressure opponents and create scoring opportunities off turnovers will be crucial.
Claflin Panthers
The Claflin Panthers have had a mixed season with a 9-8 overall record. They have struggled in conference play with a 3-6 record but have performed well in divisional games. The Panthers have been strong at home with a 4-1 record and have shown potential with key players like Jada Smith and Alana Johnson leading the way. Their shooting efficiency, particularly from beyond the arc, has been a highlight.
Key Players
- Jada Smith is the leading scorer for the Panthers, averaging 14.2 points per game. She is known for her quickness and ability to drive to the basket, making her a constant threat on offense.
- Alana Johnson is a versatile forward, averaging 12.5 points and 7.8 rebounds per game. Her ability to score both inside and from mid-range, along with her rebounding skills, makes her a key player for Claflin.
- Brianna Taylor is a strong defensive player, averaging 2.1 steals per game. She also contributes offensively with 9.3 points per game, providing a balanced presence on the court.
- Kayla Brown is a dominant force in the paint, averaging 8.7 points and 8.1 rebounds per game. Her shot-blocking ability and defensive presence are crucial for the Panthers.
Team Strength
Claflin has a solid shooting efficiency, with a field goal percentage of 40.8%. The Panthers excel in three-point shooting, with a percentage of 30.1%. This makes them a threat from beyond the arc and can stretch opposing defenses.
Statistical Comparison
| Statistic |
Fayetteville State Broncos |
Claflin Panthers |
| Record |
11-6, 8-2 CIAA |
9-8, 3-6 CIAA |
| Points Per Game (PPG) |
65.9 |
65.6 |
| Rebounds Per Game (RPG) |
37.6 |
38.9 |
| Assists Per Game (APG) |
14.4 |
11.9 |
| Turnovers Per Game (TO/G) |
16.6 |
21.4 |
| Steals Per Game (STL/G) |
10.9 |
8.1 |
| Blocks Per Game (BLK/G) |
3.9 |
2.8 |
Key Takeaways
- Scoring and Defense: Both teams have similar scoring averages, but Fayetteville State has a slight edge in points allowed per game, indicating a stronger defense.
- Shooting Efficiency: Claflin's higher three-point shooting percentage could be a critical factor.
- Rebounding: Claflin leads in rebounds per game, which might give them an advantage in controlling the boards.
- Turnovers: Fayetteville State has a better turnover margin, which could be crucial in a close game.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Talia Trotter (FSU) vs. Jada Smith (Claflin): Both leading scorers for their teams. Trotter's efficiency and versatility will be tested against Smith's quickness and driving ability.
- Morgan Graham (FSU) vs. Kayla Brown (Claflin): A crucial battle in the paint. Graham's rebounding and defensive presence will go head-to-head with Brown's shot-blocking and interior scoring.
- Keayna McLaughlin (FSU) vs. Alana Johnson (Claflin): Both versatile forwards contributing significantly on both ends. McLaughlin's scoring and rebounding will be matched against Johnson's inside-outside game.
This match-up promises to be an exciting and competitive game with both teams showcasing their strengths and key players.
