Game Information 
Matchup: Fayetteville State Broncos vs. West Virginia State Yellow Jackets 
Date: Friday, Nov. 13 
Time: 7:30 p.m. 
Location: Walker Convocation Center, Institute, W.Va. 
Links to Broadcast, Live Stats: fsubroncos.com/gameday

The Fayetteville State men's basketball team continues its season-opening road trip Friday night when the Broncos face West Virginia State in the Earl Lloyd Classic at the Walker Convocation Center. Both teams enter the contest seeking their first victory of the 2026-27 season after suffering close setbacks in their respective openers. 

About Fayetteville State 

Fayetteville State opened the season with an 80-76 loss at Concord on Monday, showing resilience despite playing from behind for much of the second half. 

The Broncos burst out to a 14-3 lead behind the shooting of Kenneth Brayboy, but Concord responded before taking a 41-38 halftime advantage. Fayetteville State trailed by as many as 15 points in the second half before mounting a late rally that cut the deficit to four multiple times in the closing minutes. 

One of the encouraging signs for the Broncos was their defensive activity. Fayetteville State forced 20 turnovers, recorded 14 steals, and turned those takeaways into 21 points. The Broncos also converted 32-of-47 free throws and showed the ability to generate offense through aggressive play. 

Broncos Players to Watch 

• Kenneth Brayboy made an immediate impact in his Fayetteville State debut, finishing with 15 points, four rebounds, two assists, and two blocked shots. His perimeter shooting helped spark the Broncos' early run against Concord. 

• Joseph Allen stuffed the stat sheet with 13 points, three rebounds, three steals, and a blocked shot. His two-way play will be critical against a high-scoring West Virginia State squad. 

• Tyler Gill controlled the offense with 11 points, seven assists, four steals, and three rebounds. The veteran guard's ability to create scoring opportunities and dictate tempo could be a deciding factor. 

• Dane Stewart added 10 points and knocked down two three-pointers to help pace the Broncos. 

About West Virginia State 

West Virginia State enters Friday's matchup looking to bounce back from a 96-89 loss to Thomas More in its season opener. 

The Yellow Jackets displayed plenty of offensive firepower, placing five players in double figures and nearly overcoming a double-digit deficit. After trailing 41-34 at halftime, West Virginia State continued to chip away and pulled within four points multiple times during the second half before Thomas More closed the game at the free-throw line. 

The offensive balance shown by the Yellow Jackets presents a challenge for a Fayetteville State defense that prides itself on creating turnovers and disrupting opposing offenses. 

Yellow Jackets Players to Watch 

• Carson Tangness led West Virginia State in its opener with 19 points and eight rebounds, providing production both inside and outside. 

• Zahki Fallen added 18 points on 7-of-15 shooting and showcased the scoring ability to lead extended offensive runs. 

• Marlon Landingham contributed 14 points and helped fuel several second-half comeback attempts. 

• Quian Henderson finished with 12 points as the Yellow Jackets demonstrated impressive offensive depth. 

Keys to the Game 

• Control Transition Opportunities - Fayetteville State generated 14 steals and forced 20 turnovers against Concord. Turning defensive pressure into transition baskets could help the Broncos establish control early. 

• Defend Without Fouling - West Virginia State scored 89 points in its opener and features multiple scoring threats. Limiting easy opportunities at the free-throw line and forcing contested shots will be essential. 

• Finish Strong - Both teams found themselves rallying from deficits in their season openers. The ability to execute late-game possessions and make clutch plays in the final minutes may ultimately determine the outcome. 

What to Expect 

Friday's contest features two athletic teams searching for their first win and looking to build momentum early in the season. Fayetteville State's aggressive defense and ability to force turnovers will be tested by a West Virginia State offense that placed five players in double figures in its opener. 

The matchup could evolve into an up-tempo affair, with both teams looking to capitalize on transition opportunities and create offense through defensive pressure. 

Outlook 

The Broncos showed flashes of their potential despite the loss to Concord, particularly with their ability to create turnovers, attack the basket, and respond when facing adversity. A strong defensive performance and improved shooting efficiency could position Fayetteville State to leave Institute with its first victory of the season. 

Fans can follow all the action and get postgame coverage at FSUBroncos.com and on Fayetteville State Athletics social media channels.