CIAA Semifinal Preview: Fayetteville State vs. Johnson C. Smith

Date: Friday, February 27, 2026
Time: 8:00 PM
Location: CFG Bank Arena, Baltimore, MD
Broadcast: ESPN+
Live Stats: Live Stats

The semifinal stage is set for a heavyweight match-up between #1 Southern seed Fayetteville State (21–6) and a surging Johnson C. Smith (12–14) squad riding the momentum of the tournament's biggest upset. With championship expectations on one side and newfound Cinderella confidence on the other, this showdown promises physical play, explosive guard scoring, and a dramatic finish under the Baltimore lights. Fayetteville State Broncos (21–6)
Fayetteville State enters the semifinals as the CIAA's most explosive offensive team, averaging a staggering 90.0 points per game behind a versatile lineup stacked with high‑efficiency scorers. The Broncos attack opponents with relentless pace, a dominant free‑throw presence, and arguably the best starting group in the conference. With multiple All‑CIAA caliber players, including two 20‑point scorers, FSU has the size, speed, and experience to control the tempo and punish teams on both ends.

Top Players to Watch

• Larry Howell – 21.0 PPG • 6.5 RPG • .853 FT% - The CIAA's top scorer and a three‑level threat who can break open games with strength and shot creation.
• Ezekiel Cannedy – 17.9 PPG • .379 3PT% - A smooth sharpshooter and explosive slasher who forces defenses to stretch and react.
• Terrell Williams – 13.9 PPG • 7.8 RPG • 5.7 APG - FSU's Swiss‑army knife — a facilitator, rebounder, and defender whose versatility stabilizes both ends.
• Romeo Aquino – 13.6 PPG • 6.1 RPG • 1.4 BPG - A powerful interior scorer and rim protector who anchors the Broncos' paint presence.

Johnson C. Smith Golden Bulls (12–14)
Johnson C. Smith has become the tournament's most dangerous underdog, fresh off a stunning 64–63 quarterfinal upset of Virginia Union sealed by Jamauri Bryant's iconic game‑winning three. Despite an up‑and‑down regular season, the Golden Bulls are playing their best basketball at the perfect time — defending hard, hitting timely shots, and showing no fear on the big stage. Their guard trio gives them the confidence and late‑game resilience to hang with any opponent.

Top Players to Watch

• Trey Pettigrew – 17.3 PPG • 2.8 APG - A clutch shot‑maker who thrives late in games and ignites JCSU's offensive rhythm.
• Jamauri Bryant – 17.0 PPG • 6.5 RPG • 2.5 APG - JCSU's heartbeat and late‑game closer, fresh off a tournament‑defining performance.
• Jared Davis – 11.9 PPG • .596 FG% - A rugged interior finisher and shot‑blocker who stabilizes the Golden Bulls around the rim.
• Anthony Williams – 6.5 PPG • 1.9 APG - Reliable backcourt defender and facilitator who spaces the floor and helps JCSU control tempo.

What to Expect
This semifinal features a dramatic contrast in styles:

• Fayetteville State wants pace, scoring fireworks, and transition dominance.
• Johnson C. Smith wants execution, late‑game poise, and defensive resistance.

The Broncos boast the tournament's most complete offense, while the Golden Bulls arrive with the confidence of a battle‑tested team that just knocked off a title favorite. Expect intensity, physicality, and a game that stays competitive deep into the second half. Keys to the Game
Fayetteville State

• Push the tempo early to wear down JCSU's shorter rotation.
• Dominate the free‑throw line, where FSU holds a massive advantage.
• Protect the paint against Davis and Bryant's drives and post touches.

Johnson C. Smith

• Minimize turnovers to prevent FSU from generating easy transition points.
• Hit perimeter shots — Pettigrew, Bryant, and Bumbray must stretch the defense.
• Compete on the glass to avoid giving FSU extra possessions and rhythm.

Conclusion
Two teams trending upward collide with a berth in the CIAA Championship on the line. Fayetteville State brings firepower, depth, and star‑driven efficiency, while Johnson C. Smith counters with heart, momentum, and the belief that no opponent is unbeatable. With two high‑impact guard groups and plenty of championship‑level talent on the floor, this semifinal has all the makings of a classic.