GAME PREVIEW: Fayetteville State at Virginia State
Date: Thursday, December 11
Time: 7:30 PM
Location: VSU Multipurpose Center – Petersburg, VA
Broadcast: Virginia State Sports Network
Live Stats: VSU Live Stats
Tickets: Ticketmaster

Fayetteville State men's basketball (5-3, 1-0 CIAA) travels to Virginia State (4-5) for a Thursday night matchup at the VSU Multipurpose Center. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 PM, following the women's game. The Broncos aim to continue their strong start in conference play, while the Trojans look to bounce back and defend home court. Matchup Overview
Expect an up-tempo contest between two teams that average over 70 points per game. Fayetteville State enters with one of the CIAA's most explosive offenses, scoring 84.5 points per game, while Virginia State averages 70.1 points and thrives on balanced scoring and rebounding. Fayetteville State Broncos
The Broncos are led by a dynamic trio that has powered their offense all season. FSU ranks among the league leaders in free-throw shooting (72.1%) and blocks (6.0 per game), while forcing turnovers and converting in transition.
Top Players to Watch:

• Ezekiel Cannedy (20.6 PPG, 30 made threes) – Elite scorer and perimeter threat.
• Larry Howell (20.5 PPG, 7.4 RPG, .882 FT%) – Double-double machine and inside presence.
• Romeo Aquino (14.0 PPG, 6.5 RPG, 15 blocks) – Defensive anchor and versatile forward.
• Travon Cooper II (10.5 PPG, .484 FG%) – Slasher and secondary scoring option.

Virginia State Trojans
VSU enters averaging 70.1 points per game and shooting 43.2% from the field, with a balanced attack that features multiple double-digit scorers. The Trojans are strong on the glass (38 rebounds per game) and look to control tempo against FSU's high-powered offense.
Top Players to Watch:

• Jacob Cooper (13.0 PPG) – Aggressive guard who creates off the dribble.
• Brandon Hilliard (9.1 PPG, .450 FG%) – Reliable scorer and perimeter shooter.
• Jordan Lambert (9.1 PPG, .490 FG%, .615 3PT) – Efficient shooter from deep.
• Jared White (7.9 PPG, 35 rebounds) – Physical forward who impacts the paint.

What to Watch For

• Scoring Pace: FSU averages 84.5 points per game, while VSU allows 71.2. Can the Trojans slow down the Broncos' tempo?
• Battle on the Boards: VSU holds a slight rebounding edge (38.0 to 37.1). Second-chance points will be key.
• Three-Point Shooting: FSU has hit 47 threes, while VSU has made 41. Perimeter defense will be critical.
• Free-Throw Factor: Broncos get to the line often (23.9 attempts per game) and shoot 72.1%, compared to VSU's 64.9%.

Key Takeaways

• FSU's Offensive Firepower: Howell and Cannedy combine for over 41 points per game, making them one of the CIAA's most dangerous duos.
• VSU's Balanced Attack: The Trojans have eight players averaging 6+ points, giving them depth and versatility.
• Early Conference Momentum: A win for FSU would solidify their strong start; VSU seeks to protect home court and even their record.