Game Preview: Fayetteville State vs. Coker
Date: Saturday, November 22, 2025
Location: Felton J. Capel Arena, Fayetteville, NC
Time: 2: 00 PM
Two undefeated teams collide as Fayetteville State (3-0) hosts Coker (3-0) in a non-conference showdown. Both squads enter the contest riding early-season momentum and share a common opponent in UNC Pembroke—Fayetteville State earned a 70-58 victory, while Coker posted a 76-60 win, setting the stage for a competitive matchup. Expect a high-energy contest featuring contrasting styles—Fayetteville State's defensive grit versus Coker's offensive firepower.
Fayetteville State Broncos (3-0)
The Broncos have leaned on balanced scoring and defensive intensity through their first three games, averaging 62.0 points per game while holding opponents to 52.3 points. Fayetteville State's perimeter shooting has been a difference-maker, knocking down 23 three-pointers at a 30.3% clip.
Key Players to Watch:
- KaNyah O'Neal (G) – The offensive catalyst, averaging 14.3 points and 5.0 rebounds, shooting 43.2% from the field.
- Kelis Carmon (G) – A reliable scorer from deep, hitting 46.2% from three and averaging 10.0 points per game.
- Talia Trotter (G) – Efficient and steady, contributing 9.7 points and a team-high 22 assists.
Defensively, Fayetteville State has been dominant in rim protection with 7.3 blocks per game, led by a collective effort from the frontcourt. The Broncos also force turnovers effectively, averaging 10.7 steals and converting them into 20.7 points per game off turnovers.
Coker Cobras (3-0)
Coker enters the matchup with one of the most potent offenses in the region, averaging 75.3 points per game and shooting 41.6% from the field. The Cobras excel in transition and on the glass, posting a +2.3 rebound margin and generating second-chance opportunities.
Key Players to Watch:
- Shawnteanna Tillman (G) – A scoring machine, averaging 26.0 points per game on 41.7% shooting, including 10 made threes.
- Kamari Thompson (F) – A force inside, shooting 56.3% and adding 23 points and 87 minutes of floor presence.
- Janay Legagneur (F) – Highly efficient, averaging 24 points on 55.6% shooting.
Coker's ability to stretch defenses with perimeter shooting (7.0 threes per game) and attack the paint makes them a tough matchup. They also capitalize on opponent mistakes, forcing 19.3 turnovers per game and scoring in transition.
Matchup Breakdown
- Scoring: Coker holds the edge offensively (75.3 PPG vs. 62.0 PPG), but Fayetteville State's defense and shot-blocking could disrupt the Cobras' rhythm.
- Rebounding: Both teams average over 41 boards per game, making the battle on the glass critical.
- X-Factor: Fayetteville State's ability to limit Tillman and contest Coker's three-point shooters will be key. Conversely, Coker will look to speed up the pace and exploit transition opportunities.
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