GAME PREVIEW -- Fayetteville State vs Livingstone
**Men's Preview
Date: Thursday
, February 12, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Capel Arena, Fayetteville, NC
Broadcast: Bronco Sports Network
Live Stats: Live Stats
Tickets: Game Tickets
Fayetteville State returns to the friendly confines of
Capel Arena for a crucial CIAA matchup against the Livingstone Blue Bears. With the Broncos standing at
16–6 overall and 10–2 in CIAA play, they look to protect home court and maintain their momentum in the conference title race. Livingstone,
8–14 overall and 4–8 in league play, enters eager to shake up the standings by handing FSU a rare home loss.
Fayetteville State Broncos
Backed by one of the CIAA's most electric offenses and a home crowd that consistently fuels their energy, the Broncos average
89.4 points per game and excel at getting to the free‑throw line. Their defensive length and shot‑blocking ability give them a distinct advantage in Capel Arena, where they've traditionally played with increased confidence and pace.
Top Players
- Larry Howell – 20.5 PPG, 6.6 RPG - The CIAA scoring leader thrives at Capel, where his ability to draw contact and finish around the rim elevates FSU's attack.
- Ezekiel Cannedy – 18.0 PPG - One of Division II's top-volume three‑point threats (74 made threes), Cannedy's long-range shooting shifts defenses.
- Romeo Aquino – 13.9 PPG, 6.3 RPG - Efficient and steady, Aquino's paint scoring and rebounding are key for extending possessions.
- Terrell Williams – 12.8 PPG, 7.6 RPG - A matchup nightmare who contributes as a rebounder, scorer, and facilitator.
Livingstone Blue Bears
Livingstone arrives with a physical, hustle-driven roster. The Blue Bears rank near even with opponents in rebounding and depend on their wings and rim protection to disrupt rhythm. While their offense can be streaky, their grit and defensive commitment often keep games tight
Top Players
- James Nipper – 13.0 PPG - LC's top scorer brings mid-range consistency and perimeter creation.
- Kenneth Tyree Jr. – 11.8 PPG - A capable lead guard who can hit the three at a .366 clip.
- Omarion Bodrick – 7.3 PPG, 7.3 RPG, 1.9 BLK - One of the CIAA's best shot blockers; his interior presence could challenge FSU's forwards.
- Erick Coffey – 7.4 PPG, .394 3PT% - A reliable spot-up option who helps stretch defenses.
What to Expect
At home, the Broncos seek to dictate tempo early. They'll push the pace, attack the rim, and use their athleticism to force Livingstone into uncomfortable positions. The Blue Bears, meanwhile, hope to make this game a physical, low-possession contest—one where their defense can slow down Howell and Cannedy's scoring output. Capel Arena's energy has historically boosted FSU's defensive intensity. Expect the Broncos to be aggressive in passing lanes and around the rim, where they average
5.5 blocks per game.
Keys to the Game
Fayetteville State
- Protect the ball: Turnovers have been an Achilles' heel at times (15 per game).
- Capitalize at the line: Their significant free‑throw advantage can create separation.
- Use the crowd: Early defensive pressure could set the tone in Capel.
Livingstone
- Control the boards: Avoid giving FSU second‑chance points.
- Limit FSU's big runs: Especially in the first and last five minutes.
- Lean on Bodrick's rim protection: Disrupting FSU's interior scoring is essential.
Playing at home gives Fayetteville State a clear advantage, but Livingstone's competitive nature ensures this won't be a walk‑through. If the Broncos control pace, dominate inside, and remain disciplined defensively, they'll be positioned to secure another CIAA win in Capel Arena. Livingstone will need a patient, defensive-minded performance to challenge FSU on their home floor.
