GAME PREVIEW - Fayetteville State Broncos vs. Claflin Panthers
Women's Basketball

Date: Thursday, January 29, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Capel Arena, Fayetteville, NC
Broadcast: Bronco Sports Network
Live Stats: Live Stats
Tickets: Game Tickets

Fayetteville State (14–2, 8–1 CIAA) returns to Capel Arena on Thursday evening for a pivotal conference matchup against Claflin (9–5, 5–3 CIAA). Both teams rank among the CIAA's top defensive units and enter with strong midseason rhythm—setting the stage for a high-energy, possession-by-possession battle. FSU's defensive discipline and well-rounded offensive presence will be challenged by a Claflin squad known for efficient scoring and a turnover-creating press.
  FAYETTEVILLE STATE BRONCOS (14–2, 8–1 CIAA)
Fayetteville State continues its impressive start behind elite defense, depth, and a movement-based offense averaging 67.1 points per game. The Broncos hold opponents to just 55.4 points, using a combination of ball pressure, rim protection, and smart shot selection to control tempo. With 41.8 rebounds, 15.6 assists, and a conference-leading 5.8 blocks per game, FSU excels in nearly every defensive category.

Top Statistical Leaders

• KaNyah O'Neal (11.0 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 3.4 SPG)
  O'Neal sets the tone defensively, using her quick hands and aggressive attacking style to jumpstart FSU's transition game.
• Talia Trotter (9.9 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 5.6 APG)
  Trotter orchestrates the offense with poise, serving as the team's primary creator and one of the league's top distributors.
• Kelis Carmon (7.5 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 1.1 BPG)
  Carmon anchors the interior with strong rebounding and consistent rim protection.
• Taleah Stephens (7.0 PPG, .531 FG)
  Stephens provides elite shot efficiency and steady frontcourt production off the block.

CLAFLIN PANTHERS (9–5, 5–3 CIAA)
Claflin enters with one of the CIAA's most efficient offenses, outscoring opponents by more than +16 points per game while shooting 43.9% from the field. The Panthers rely on pressure defense, forcing 23.4 turnovers per game, and thrive in transition where their guard play and perimeter shooting shine. Though Claflin is slightly undersized on the boards, their speed and playmaking often neutralize second-chance disadvantages.

Top Statistical Leaders

• Ashari Lewis (14.7 PPG, 4.1 RPG)
  Lewis leads Claflin with consistent scoring ability and a dangerous perimeter stroke.
• Mia Lewis (10.5 PPG)
  Lewis provides versatile scoring, attacking the rim and creating mismatches in the midrange.
• Tyra Floyd (7.9 PPG)
  Floyd contributes as a reliable perimeter option who spaces the floor and forces defensive rotations.
• Olivia Randolph (6.5 RPG)
  Randolph anchors the interior with strong rebounding presence and high-energy defensive play.

WHAT TO EXPECT

• A defensive battle, with both teams ranking among the CIAA's best in steals and forced turnovers.
• A tempo contrast, as Claflin relies on speed and pressure while FSU prefers disciplined half-court execution.
• Heavy backcourt involvement, with O'Neal and Trotter facing off against Lewis and Floyd in a high‑level guard matchup.
• Paint production as a deciding factor, with FSU's depth versus Claflin's efficiency.
• Key momentum swings off turnovers, as both teams average more than 18 opponent giveaways per game.
• Three-point shooting opportunities, especially for Lewis and Lucas against FSU's rotating perimeter defense.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• FSU holds the defensive edge, limiting opponents to 31.7% shooting from the field.
• Claflin thrives off miscues, turning opponents over 23 times per game.
• Rebounding favors Fayetteville State, which owns a +2.4 margin with multiple strong rebounders.
• The Broncos possess more scoring depth, with multiple players capable of leading the offense on any night.
• Claflin's efficiency makes them dangerous, shooting a strong 43.9% from the floor.

SUMMARY
Thursday's matchup between Fayetteville State and Claflin features two of the CIAA's most competitive teams in a game packed with intensity, defensive grit, and high-level guard play. FSU's collective defensive identity and balanced offensive approach meet a Claflin squad that excels in pressure, efficiency, and guard-driven scoring. With both teams jockeying for position near the top of the division, this game has the feel of a late-season test and should deliver an energetic atmosphere inside Capel Arena.