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

Date: February 15, 2025
Time: 4:00 PM
Location: New Trent Gym, Salisbury, NC
Game Links: fsubroncos.com/gameday

The upcoming clash between Fayetteville State and Livingstone promises to be an exciting matchup as both teams vie for supremacy in the Southern Division.

Fayetteville State
Fayetteville State has had a stellar season, boasting a 19-6 overall record and an impressive 11-3 in conference play. Their consistent performance has made them a formidable force in the division.

Top Players

• Tairell Fletcher: Leading scorer with 17.4 points per game, also contributes 3.1 rebounds and 4.4 assists.
• Caleb Simmons: Key player in the paint with 17.3 points and 9.5 rebounds per game.
• Ezekiel Cannedy: Adds 15.6 points per game, providing a reliable scoring option.

Team Strengths

• Scoring Efficiency: The Broncos average 75.4 points per game with a scoring margin of +10.9, showcasing their ability to outscore opponents consistently.
• Shooting Accuracy: They shoot 45.8% from the field and 37.7% from three-point range, making them a threat from all areas of the court.
• Free Throw Shooting: With an 80.2% free throw percentage, they capitalize on opportunities at the line.
• Rebounding: Averaging 36.0 rebounds per game, they dominate the boards, particularly with Caleb Simmons' contributions.
• Defense: They limit opponents to 64.5 points per game and force 13.4 turnovers per game, demonstrating strong defensive capabilities.

Livingstone
Livingstone, on the other hand, has had a mixed season with a 12-12 overall record and a 4-9 record in conference play. Despite their struggles, they have shown flashes of brilliance and are capable of pulling off an upset.

Top Players

• Jamal Cannady Jr.: Top scorer with 16.8 points per game, also adds 3.1 rebounds and 2.1 assists.
• Teon Tiller: Contributes 11.3 points and 2.7 assists per game.
• James Nipper: Provides 11.0 points and 4.4 rebounds per game, adding depth to the team.

Team Strengths

• Scoring: The Blue Bears average 76.2 points per game, indicating a potent offense.
• Free Throw Shooting: They shoot 70.4% from the free-throw line, ensuring they make the most of their chances.
• Steals: Averaging 8.0 steals per game, they excel at disrupting opponents' plays and creating scoring opportunities from turnovers.
• Rebounding: With 37.1 rebounds per game, they are strong on the boards, often out-rebounding their opponents.
• Defensive Pressure: Their ability to generate turnovers and maintain a high level of defensive pressure is a key strength.

 Team Comparison

Statistic	Fayetteville State	Livingstone
Record	19-6 (11-3 CIAA)	12-12 (4-9 CIAA)
Points Per Game	75.4	76.2
Rebounds Per Game	36.0	37.1
Assists Per Game	11.3	9.8
Turnovers Per Game	11.1	13.1
Steals Per Game	6.5	8.0
Blocks Per Game	3.1	3.6

Key Matchups

• Tairell Fletcher vs. Jamal Cannady Jr.: Both players are their team's leading scorers and will be pivotal in determining the game's outcome.
• Caleb Simmons vs. James Nipper: Simmons' rebounding prowess will be tested against Nipper's all-around game.
• Team Defense: Fayetteville State's ability to limit turnovers and Livingstone's knack for steals will be crucial in this matchup.

This game is set to be a thrilling encounter with both teams bringing their best to the court. Fans can expect a high-energy game with plenty of exciting moments.

 
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