WEST VIRGINIA, WV– The Fayetteville State University men's basketball team will continue their NCAA DII journey in West Virginia as they prepare to take on West Liberty in the NCAA DII Atlantic Region Semifinal game. The game is set to take place on Sunday, March 16th, at 7:30 PM.
Fayetteville State Broncos
Fayetteville State has had a remarkable season, showcasing their ability to compete at a high level. Their overall record of 23-8 reflects their consistency and resilience throughout the season. In conference play, they achieved a solid 12-4 record, demonstrating their strength against familiar opponents.
Key highlights of their season include:
- Balanced Scoring: Fayetteville State has managed to spread the scoring load across multiple players, with Tairell Fletcher, Caleb Simmons, and Ezekiel Cannedy all averaging double figures in points. This balanced attack makes them difficult to defend.
- Defensive Prowess: Allowing only 65.8 points per game, Fayetteville State's defense has been a cornerstone of their success. Their ability to limit opponents' scoring opportunities has been crucial in close games.
- Efficiency: With a field goal percentage of .458 and a free-throw percentage of .797, Fayetteville State has been efficient in their scoring opportunities. Their ability to capitalize on free throws has often given them an edge in tight contests.
- Rebounding: Averaging 36.7 rebounds per game, Fayetteville State has been strong on the boards, often out-rebounding their opponents and creating second-chance opportunities.
Key Players
- Tairell Fletcher (#00): Fletcher is Fayetteville State's leading scorer, averaging 17.5 points per game. As a versatile guard, he excels in both driving to the basket and shooting from the perimeter, with a field goal percentage of .442 and a three-point percentage of .389. Fletcher also contributes significantly in playmaking, averaging 4.4 assists per game, making him a constant threat on the court.
- Caleb Simmons (#01): Simmons is a dominant forward for Fayetteville State, known for his strong presence on the boards and scoring ability. He averages 16.7 points and 9.3 rebounds per game, showcasing his dual impact on both ends of the floor. Simmons' efficiency is evident in his shooting percentages, with a .499 field goal percentage and a .377 three-point percentage, making him a key player in Fayetteville State's lineup.
- Myles Pierre (#15): Pierre adds depth to Fayetteville State's roster with his scoring and shooting efficiency. Averaging 9.4 points per game, Pierre is highly effective from beyond the arc, boasting a .485 three-point percentage. His ability to score efficiently and contribute in various aspects of the game, including rebounds and assists, makes him a valuable asset to the team.
- Javon Floyd (#22): Floyd is a strong presence in the paint, averaging 4.6 rebounds per game and contributing defensively with 1.3 blocks per game.
Team Strengths
- Defense: Strong defense, allowing only 65.8 points per game.
- Shooting: Efficient shooting, with a field goal percentage of .458.
- Free-throws: Effective free-throw shooting at .797.
West Liberty Hilltoppers
West Liberty has had an outstanding season, marked by their high-powered offense and dominant performances. Their overall record of 28-4 and conference record of 18-2 highlight their ability to consistently win games and perform well against tough competition.
Key highlights of their season include:
- High-Scoring Offense: Averaging 101 points per game, West Liberty's offense has been explosive. Their ability to score in high volumes has often overwhelmed opponents and led to decisive victories.
- Ball Movement: With an average of 22.5 assists per game, West Liberty excels in ball movement and teamwork. Their unselfish play and ability to find the open man have been key to their offensive success.
- Turnover Margin: Forcing 20 turnovers per game while committing only 10.7, West Liberty has a strong turnover margin. Their ability to pressure opponents and create scoring opportunities off turnovers has been a significant advantage.
- Depth: West Liberty's depth is evident in their player statistics, with multiple players contributing significantly in scoring, rebounding, and assists. This depth allows them to maintain a high level of play even when rotating players.
Key Players
- Kyler D'Augustino (#12): Augustino leads West Liberty in scoring, averaging 17.0 points per game. As a guard, he is known for his ability to drive to the basket and finish strong, reflected in his .461 field goal percentage. D'Augustino's playmaking skills are also notable, as he averages 2.2 assists per game, making him a crucial player in West Liberty's high-powered offense.
- JJ Harper (#13): Harper is a versatile forward for West Liberty, contributing significantly in both scoring and rebounding. He averages 15.9 points and 5.2 rebounds per game, with a shooting efficiency of .499 from the field and .368 from three-point range. Harper's ability to impact the game in multiple ways makes him a key player for West Liberty.
- Lanyc Shuler(#2): Shuler is an effective scorer and playmaker for West Liberty, averaging 11.6 points and 4.1 assists per game. His high field goal percentage of .549 reflects his efficiency in scoring, while his ability to distribute the ball enhances West Liberty's offensive dynamics. Shuler's contributions on both ends of the floor make him an integral part of the team.
Team Strengths
- Scoring: High-scoring offense, averaging 101 points per game.
- Assists: Excellent ball movement, averaging 22.5 assists per game.
- Turnovers: Strong turnover margin, forcing 20 turnovers per game.
Team Comparison
| Statistic |
Fayetteville State |
West Liberty |
| Record |
23-8, 12-4 |
28-4, 18-2 |
| Points Per Game |
77.2 |
101.0 |
| FG Percentage |
.458 |
.482 |
| 3PT Percentage |
.381 |
.368 |
| FT Percentage |
.797 |
.755 |
| Rebounds Per Game |
36.7 |
36.8 |
| Assists Per Game |
11.1 |
22.5 |
| Turnovers Per Game |
11.2 |
10.7 |
| Steals Per Game |
6.8 |
10.9 |
| Blocks Per Game |
3.1 |
3.3 |
Key Matchups
-
Tairell Fletcher vs. Kyler D'Augustino: This matchup features the leading scorers from both teams. Fletcher's versatility and outside shooting will be tested against D'Augustino's driving ability and playmaking. Both players will be crucial in setting the tone for their respective teams.
-
Caleb Simmons vs. JJ Harper: Simmons and Harper will battle on the boards and in scoring. Simmons' rebounding prowess will be key in limiting second-chance opportunities for West Liberty, while Harper's versatility will challenge Fayetteville State's defense. This matchup could significantly impact the game's outcome.
-
Myles Pierre vs. Lanyc Shuler: Pierre's three-point shooting and defensive skills will be crucial in countering Shuler's playmaking and scoring efficiency. Both players' contributions will be vital in their teams' overall performance.
What to Expect
Expect a high-energy game with West Liberty's fast-paced offense challenging Fayetteville State's solid defense. Key matchups between leading scorers and rebounders will be pivotal. Fayetteville State's efficiency in shooting and free throws could be a deciding factor if they manage to slow down West Liberty's scoring machine.
How to Follow
Fans can follow the action live on the Fayetteville State Athletics website,
fsubroncos.com/gameday. Live stats and updates will also be available on social media.
Get ready for an exciting match-up as the Broncos and Hilltoppers look to continue their journey to the NCAA DII Regional Finals!
