GAME PREVIEW - Fayetteville State at Winston‑Salem State
**Men's Basketball

Date: Saturday, February 7, 2026
Time: 4:00 PM
Location: C.E. Gaines Center, Winston-Salem, NC
Broadcast: WSSU Sports Network
Live Stats: Live Stats
Tickets: Game Tickets

A high‑stakes CIAA rivalry game takes center stage Saturday afternoon as Fayetteville State (14–6, 8–2 CIAA) travels to Winston‑Salem State (7–12, 2–8 CIAA). The Broncos bring one of the conference's most explosive offenses into the Gaines Center, while WSSU counters with a physical frontline and a desperate need for a momentum‑shifting home victory. With styles that clash dramatically — pace and spacing from FSU versus size and interior power from WSSU — this matchup promises both intensity and intrigue. FAYETTEVILLE STATE BRONCOS (14–6, 8–2 CIAA)
Fayetteville State enters Saturday as one of the CIAA's most dangerous offensive units, averaging nearly 90 points per game while shooting efficiently from all levels. The Broncos boast four double‑digit scorers, an elite scoring duo in Larry Howell and Ezekiel Cannedy, and one of the league's most well‑rounded forwards in Romeo Aquino. FSU's ability to attack the paint, get to the free‑throw line, and generate blocks on the defensive end has powered their climb near the top of the standings.
Top Players

• Larry Howell – 20.8 PPG, 6.6 RPG, 1.5 SPG - One of the CIAA's premier scorers, Howell brings elite shot creation, three‑level scoring, and leadership to FSU's late‑game execution.
• Ezekiel Cannedy – 17.8 PPG, 37.2% 3PT - A dangerous perimeter threat, Cannedy can change momentum instantly with his deep shooting and aggressive offensive mindset.
• Romeo Aquino – 14.0 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 1.6 BPG - A two‑way standout, Aquino's combination of rim protection and interior scoring makes him a matchup problem on both ends.
• Terrell Williams – 13.1 PPG, 7.8 RPG, 6.4 APG - FSU's most versatile playmaker, Williams impacts the game everywhere — scoring, rebounding, facilitating, and defending.

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WINSTON‑SALEM STATE RAMS (7–12, 2–8 CIAA)
The Rams look to defend home court and secure a breakthrough win behind a strong post presence and a roster capable of big scoring nights when firing on all cylinders. WSSU's interior size, led by Abou Camara and Khyelle Ingram, keeps the Rams competitive on the glass, while guard Tyre Boykin remains the focal point of their offensive production.

Top Players

• Tyre Boykin – 18.9 PPG, 36.6% 3PT - A high‑volume scoring guard, Boykin is WSSU's go‑to option and one of the most dynamic offensive threats in the CIAA.
• Khyelle Ingram – 10.4 PPG, 5.1 RPG - A physical forward with strong finishing ability, Ingram provides consistent production inside.
• Abou Camara – 9.0 PPG, 10.8 RPG, 1.2 BPG - A dominant rebounder and rim-protector, Camara anchors the Rams' defense and gives them second‑chance opportunities.
• Ethan English – 8.0 PPG, 2.5 APG - A steady guard presence, English adds playmaking and scoring efficiency to WSSU's backcourt rotation.

What to Expect – Game Breakdown

• FSU's scoring punch will test WSSU's defensive discipline.  The Broncos' four double‑digit scorers create matchup problems.
• Rebounding will be a major factor. Camara and Ingram form a strong duo that can disrupt FSU on the boards.
• Tempo will dictate the flow. FSU thrives in transition; WSSU benefits by slowing the pace and utilizing the post.
• Perimeter shooting could swing momentum. Howell and Cannedy vs. Boykin will be a backcourt battle worth watching.
• Turnover management will be critical. FSU's defense generates nearly 19 points off turnovers per game.

Key Takeaways

• FSU's offensive efficiency gives them an advantage — if they maintain poise vs. WSSU's physicality.
• WSSU must control the paint and limit second-chance scoring to stay in the game.
• Limiting Boykin's shot volume will be key for the Broncos.
• Expect momentum swings — both teams have explosive scoring runs in them.

Conclusion
Saturday's matchup provides a classic rivalry environment with two teams aiming to set the tone for the second half of CIAA play. Fayetteville State brings elite scoring power and veteran playmakers, while Winston‑Salem State counters with size, rebounding, and one of the league's top scoring guards in Tyre Boykin. With the Broncos fighting to stay near the top of the standings and the Rams looking for a momentum‑building upset, fans should expect a competitive, physical, and emotionally charged contest at the Gaines Center.