GAME PREVIEW - FAYETTEVILLE STATE vs VIRGINIA UNION

Date: January 8, 2026
Time: 8:00 PM
Location: Capel Arena, Fayetteville, NC
Broadcast: Bronco Sports Network
Live Stats: Live Stats
Tickets: Game Tickets

The December Fayetteville State–Virginia Union matchup became an instant CIAA classic, stretching into three overtimes before the Panthers finally pulled away. Now the rematch arrives with both teams in very different places: FSU searching for rhythm, VUU rolling as the league's most complete squad. Expect intensity, emotion, and maybe even another thriller.

FAYETTEVILLE STATE (6–6, 1–2 CIAA)
Explosive Offense, Still Seeking Defensive Consistency
The Broncos score at a high clip (83.2 PPG) but continue to battle rebounding issues and defensive lapses. Their top-end talent gives them a puncher's chance against anyone.

Players to Watch — Broncos

• Larry Howell — F — 19.8 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 1.8 STL FSU's top scorer and emotional anchor. Howell's ability to get downhill and draw fouls is essential.
• Ezekiel Cannedy — G — 17.7 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 1.5 STL A streaky shooter who can change momentum with his perimeter scoring.
• Romeo Aquino — F — 13.9 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 1.8 BLK A versatile forward who protects the rim and finishes efficiently.
• Terrell Williams — G — 11.6 PPG, 6.6 APG A dynamic playmaker whose passing elevates the Broncos' offense.

VIRGINIA UNION (13–1, 4–0 CIAA)
The CIAA's Most Dominant, Most Disciplined Team
The Panthers suffocate opponents with elite defense, depth, and physicality. They allow just 60.6 PPG and force nearly 19 turnovers per game.

Players to Watch — Panthers

• Malachi Dark — F — 13.9 PPG, 3.9 RPG, .639 FG% One of the league's most efficient interior scorers.
• Noah Richardson‑Keyes — G — 9.7 PPG, 2.6 STL, .357 3PT A defensive disruptor who thrives in passing lanes.
• Elijah Scranton — F — 7.4 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 2.6 OREB A relentless rebounder who creates second-chance points.
• Bobby Gardner — G — 9.3 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 2.0 STL A versatile two-way guard who impacts every possession.

WHAT TO WATCH FOR

• FSU's ball security vs. VUU's pressure defense The Panthers force 18.8 turnovers per game; the Broncos average 16.5.
• Rebounding disparity
  • VUU: +7.1 margin
  • FSU: -5.5 margin
• Tempo control FSU wants pace; VUU wants a grind.
• Howell vs. Dark in the paint A matchup of two elite forwards with contrasting styles.
• Perimeter shooting swing factor One unexpected hot hand could shift momentum.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• FSU must win the free-throw battle to maximize their scoring efficiency.
• VUU's depth could wear FSU down over 40 minutes.
• Turnovers will determine the winner, especially early.
• FSU needs a third scorer to complement Howell and Cannedy.
• Expect emotion and intensity with last year's 3OT finish still fresh.

SUMMARY
Fayetteville State and Virginia Union meet again in a rematch loaded with history, emotion, and contrasting styles. The Broncos bring explosive scoring led by Howell and Cannedy, but must overcome rebounding issues and protect the ball against VUU's relentless pressure. The Panthers enter as the CIAA's most complete team, powered by elite defense, depth, and efficiency from Dark, Richardson‑Keyes, and Scranton.

If FSU can control tempo, win the free‑throw battle, and limit turnovers, they can push VUU into another tight contest. But if the Panthers dictate pace and dominate the glass, they'll be positioned to prove last year's triple‑overtime win was no fluke. This matchup has all the ingredients for another classic.

Follow the game on the FSU Broncos Athletics social media sites or fsubroncos.com/gameday.