Fayetteville State vs. Bowie State – Women's Basketball Game Preview

Date: January 10, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM
Location: Capel Arena, Fayetteville, NC
Broadcast: HBCUGo TV
Live Stats: Live Stats
Tickets: Game Tickets

Two of the CIAA's toughest, most defensive‑minded programs collide as Fayetteville State (9-2, 3-1) hosts Bowie State (8-5, 1-3) in a matchup defined by contrasting styles, physical play, and two teams that pride themselves on making opponents uncomfortable. With both squads holding opponents under 56 points per game, fans should expect a gritty, possession‑by‑possession battle.

Fayetteville State Broncos – Balanced, Disciplined, and Deep
Fayetteville State enters as one of the league's most complete teams, blending efficient offense with disruptive defense. The Broncos move the ball well (15.2 assists per game), protect the rim at an elite level (5.8 blocks per game), and get contributions from across the roster. Their +10.1 scoring margin reflects a team that wins through depth, pace control, and defensive versatility.

Key Players to Watch

• KaNyah O'Neal (12.5 PPG, 3.5 STL) – A dynamic two‑way force who drives the Broncos' identity.
• Talia Trotter (8.8 PPG, 5.5 AST) – One of the CIAA's top facilitators and a master of tempo control.
• Kelis Carmon (7.4 PPG, 4.5 REB) – A versatile forward who anchors FSU's interior defense.
• Taleah Stephens (6.5 PPG, .549 FG%) – An efficient scorer who gives the Broncos valuable depth and energy off the bench.

Bowie State Bulldogs – Physical, Relentless, and Rebound‑Driven
Bowie State brings a bruising, interior‑focused identity built on rebounding and toughness. The Bulldogs own a +4.6 rebounding margin, get to the free‑throw line more than almost anyone in the CIAA (17.2 made per game), and turn defense into offense with 20.7 points off turnovers. Their style is designed to slow games down, control the paint, and wear opponents out.

Key Players to Watch

• Mia Smith (9.7 PPG) – Bowie's most consistent scoring threat and a tough shot‑maker.
• Afia Owusu‑Mensah (9.3 PPG) – A slasher who thrives in transition and midrange.
• Kristin Sterling (8.2 PPG, 5.5 REB) – The Bulldogs' interior anchor and key rebounder.
• Malaka Cobb (9.1 PPG, 1.9 STL) – A disruptive defender and secondary playmaker who fuels Bowie's pressure defense.

What to Expect

• A defensive, physical matchup with both teams holding opponents under 56 points per game.
• Heavy pressure on the ball, as each team averages double‑digit steals and thrives on forcing turnovers.
• A rebounding battle between Bowie State's physical frontcourt and Fayetteville State's shot‑blocking, team‑rebounding approach.
• Contrasting tempos, with FSU looking to run and move the ball while Bowie slows the game and attacks the paint.
• Perimeter shooting as a swing factor, especially with FSU's higher three‑point volume.

Shared Keys to Victory

• Control the possession game: Both teams rely on turnovers to fuel offense; winning this battle is crucial.
• Own the paint and the glass: Rebounding, rim protection, and second‑chance points will dictate momentum.
• Set the tempo and find efficient offense: FSU thrives in transition; Bowie excels in half‑court physicality. The team that imposes its style gains the edge.

Summary
This matchup has all the ingredients of a classic CIAA showdown — physicality, defense, and two teams capable of grinding out wins in very different ways. Fayetteville State brings balance, depth, and rim protection, while Bowie State counters with rebounding dominance, free‑throw production, and interior toughness. Expect a tight, hard‑fought contest where every possession matters and momentum swings come from defense, hustle, and execution in the paint.

Be There or Tune In
Fans won't want to miss this one. Come out, pack the gym, and bring the energy — or catch every moment live on HBCU Go TV, where the atmosphere, intensity, and CIAA pride will be on full display.