Game Information 
Opponent: NC Central (Exhibition) 
Date: Monday, Nov. 9 
Time: 6:00 p.m. 
Location: McDougald-McLendon Arena | Durham, N.C. 
Links to Broadcast, Live Stats, Tickets: fsubroncos.com/gameday

DURHAM, N.C. – A new season begins for Fayetteville State on Monday night as the Broncos travel to face Division I opponent NC Central in an exhibition matchup at McDougald-McLendon Arena. Tipoff is scheduled for 6 p.m. 

The contest marks the season opener for Fayetteville State, while NC Central enters its fourth game of the season with a 1-2 record. 

About Fayetteville State 

Fayetteville State enters the 2026-27 campaign with high expectations after posting a 21-6 record last season and advancing to the CIAA Women's Basketball Championship game. The Broncos were picked to finish second in the CIAA preseason poll and placed two players on the Preseason All-CIAA Team in KaNyah O'Neal and LaNiya Scales. 

Head coach Tyreece Brown begins his fourth season at the helm after guiding the program to continued success over the last three years. The Broncos will look to build on last season's championship appearance and establish momentum against Division I competition in their first action of the year. 

About NC Central 

The Eagles are 1-2 entering Monday's matchup and are coming off three games to begin the season. NC Central is averaging 62.0 points per game while shooting 37.1 percent from the field and 29.2 percent from three-point range. 

Defensively, the Eagles have faced challenges early, allowing 80.0 points per contest and opponents to shoot 46.7 percent from the floor. NC Central has also struggled with ball security, averaging 22.7 turnovers per game and posting a 0.4 assist-to-turnover ratio. 

Despite the early struggles, the Eagles have the advantage of already having three games under their belt, which could provide an edge in game rhythm and conditioning. 

Keys to the Game 

• Handle the Pace - NC Central has forced opponents into mistakes and scores 16.3 points per game off turnovers. Fayetteville State must value possessions and avoid giving the Eagles easy scoring opportunities. 

• Control the Boards - The Eagles are averaging 37.3 rebounds per game. Rebounding will be important for the Broncos as they seek to limit second-chance opportunities and ignite transition offense. 

• Defensive Intensity - Fayetteville State's defense has been a hallmark of its success. Applying pressure and capitalizing on NC Central's 22.7 turnovers per game could create opportunities for easy baskets. 

What to Expect 

As a Division II program facing a Division I opponent, Fayetteville State will be tested immediately. The Broncos will rely on their experienced core and defensive identity, while NC Central will look to use its length, athleticism, and early-season game experience to its advantage. 

Expect a competitive matchup that provides both teams an opportunity to gauge where they stand early in the season. 

Outlook 

While the exhibition will not count toward Fayetteville State's regular-season record, it serves as an important measuring stick against Division I competition. For the Broncos, Monday's game offers a chance to showcase why they were selected near the top of the CIAA preseason rankings and begin building momentum for another championship run.