GAME PREVIEW -- Fayetteville State at Claflin
** Women's Basketball
Date: Wednesday
, February 18, 2026
Time: 5:30 PM
Location: Tillis Arena, Orangeburg, SC
Broadcast: Panthers Sports Network
Live Stats: Live Stats
Tickets: Game Tickets
The Fayetteville State women's basketball team (18–3, 12–2 CIAA) heads to Orangeburg for a pivotal matchup against a surging Claflin squad (13–7, 9–5 CIAA) in a contest that carries major divisional and postseason implications. With both teams boasting top-tier defenses, dynamic guards, and efficient scoring options, this one has all the makings of a February thriller.
Fayetteville State Broncos (18–3, 12–2 CIAA)
The Broncos continue to assert themselves as one of the CIAA's most balanced and disciplined teams. FSU enters riding a wave of strong defensive performances, holding opponents to just
54.0 points per game, the best mark in the conference. Their ability to rebound, share the ball, and create turnovers has fueled one of the league's most efficient squads.
Top Players
- Talia Trotter – 10.5 PPG, 5.1 APG, 4.7 RPG - The engine of the Broncos' offense, Trotter's playmaking and court vision dictate FSU's rhythm. She'll be key against Claflin's heavy pressure.
- KaNyah O'Neal – 10.2 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 3.1 SPG - One of the CIAA's most disruptive defenders. Her ability to create turnovers could swing momentum.
- Kelis Carmon – 6.6 PPG, 4.8 RPG - A consistent interior presence who contributes on both ends of the floor.
- Taleah Stephens – 6.6 PPG, 3.1 RPG (.495 FG%) - Efficient scoring off the bench has given FSU steady production in key moments.
Claflin Lady Panthers (13–7, 9–5 CIAA)
Claflin counters with an explosive offense built around tempo, perimeter pressure, and opportunistic scoring. The Lady Panthers average
63.6 points per game while forcing opponents into
23.4 turnovers per outing, one of the highest pressure rates in the conference. They've won with speed and aggression, and they'll need both against FSU's methodical and structured approach.
Top Players
- Ashari Lewis – 14.2 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 2.3 STL - The team's go-to scorer, Lewis brings shot creation and defensive activity.
- Mia Lewis – 9.8 PPG, 2.5 APG - A crafty guard who extends possessions and makes plays off the dribble.
- Tyra Floyd – 7.5 PPG, 2.8 RPG - An important complementary scorer who can stretch defenses.
- Ariel Lucas – 6.6 PPG, 12.5 STL/G - Brings disruptive defense and aggression on the perimeter.
What to Expect
This matchup features two contrasting but equally effective styles. Fayetteville State excels in structured execution, half-court defense, and rebounding. Claflin thrives on chaos—forcing mistakes, pushing tempo, and creating transition opportunities.
The battle between FSU's disciplined ball movement (15.0 assists per game) and Claflin's relentless pressure (12.5 steals per game) could define the night.
The Broncos also boast a
12.3-point scoring margin, while Claflin follows closely at
13.2, making this a meeting of two teams that usually control games from start to finish.
Keys to the Game
For Fayetteville State
- Protect the ball. Claflin forces nearly 20 turnovers per game; limiting mistakes will neutralize their biggest weapon.
- Control the glass. FSU holds a +1.6 rebounding margin, while Claflin struggles at -3.0. Winning the boards wins the pace.
For Claflin
- Turn defense into offense. The Lady Panthers excel in transition—if they create turnovers, they can dictate tempo.
- Hit perimeter shots. Claflin averages 5.4 threes per game; spacing will be crucial against FSU's tough interior defense.
Conclusion
Fayetteville State enters as one of the CIAA's most complete teams, but Claflin presents a dangerous stylistic challenge—especially at home. Expect a matchup filled with defensive intensity, turnovers, and highlight plays from both backcourts. If the Broncos establish their pace early and limit mistakes, they have the edge. But if Claflin turns this into a high-speed, turnover-heavy contest, the Lady Panthers can make this one very interesting.
