GAME PREVIEW - Fayetteville State vs. Shaw
** Women's Basketball

Date: Monday, February 9, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Capel Arena, Fayetteville, NC
Broadcast: Bronco Sports Network
Live Stats: Live Stats
Tickets: Game Tickets

Fayetteville State opens a key three‑game homestand on Monday night when the Broncos (15–3, 9–2 CIAA) welcome the Shaw Bears (7–11, 4–7 CIAA) to Capel Arena. With postseason positioning tightening, this matchup presents an important opportunity for both teams: FSU looks to rebound from its recent loss and regain momentum, while Shaw aims to build stability and pull closer to .500 in conference play.
  Fayetteville State Preview (15–3, 9–2 CIAA)
The Broncos continue to rely on balance, defensive pressure, and high-level guard play. FSU enters averaging 64.8 points per game while allowing just 54.6, boasting one of the conference's strongest defenses. The Broncos force opponents into 20.1 turnovers per game and accumulate over 12 steals per night, a disruptive formula that has been central to their success.
Offensively, the combination of aggressive driving guards and interior depth fuels FSU's production. Their team-first approach is evident in 14.8 assists per game, and with six players averaging between 5–10 points, the Broncos spread the floor with confidence.

Top Players

• KaNyah O'Neal — 10.4 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 3.3 SPG - A dynamic two-way guard, O'Neal leads the team in steals and continues to set the tone defensively.
• Talia Trotter — 9.8 PPG, 5.3 APG, 4.6 RPG - The Broncos' playmaking engine, Trotter orchestrates the offense and consistently delivers in key moments.
• Kelis Carmon — 7.1 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 1.0 BPG - A reliable inside presence, Carmon protects the rim and contributes efficient scoring.
• Taleah Stephens — 6.8 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 51.6% FG - One of the CIAA's most efficient shooters, Stephens provides valuable bench scoring and hustle plays.

Shaw Preview (7–11, 4–7 CIAA)
Shaw enters with a physical roster capable of challenging teams inside and extending the perimeter defensively. The Bears average 56.1 points per game and allow 61.7, but their rebounding and shot‑blocking numbers keep them competitive. Shaw leads this matchup with 7.1 blocks per game, a statistic that could play a major role Monday night.
The Bears also force 18.4 turnovers per game, showing a willingness to press and disrupt ball handlers. Their offense is powered by a standout scorer and strong secondary options that complement their style.

Top Players

• D'Ayzha Atkinson — 15.7 PPG, 6.4 RPG - A high‑usage scorer and elite competitor, Atkinson is one of the CIAA's top offensive threats.
• Leasia Matthews — 11.0 PPG, 2.6 RPG, 1.7 SPG - A confident shooter with the ability to stretch the floor and create turnovers.
• Ashara Spruill — 7.6 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 49% FG - Shaw's most efficient interior scorer, offering size and physicality inside.
• Mikyah Finley — 7.9 PPG, 3.1 RPG - A steady guard who contributes across multiple statistical areas.

What to Expect

• Defensive pressure both ways — FSU forces turnovers at a high rate; Shaw blocks shots at a high rate.
• Battle of the boards — Both teams average around 41 rebounds per game.
• Guard play vs. interior presence — Broncos thrive on perimeter defense; Shaw relies heavily on interior activity.
• Pace control will matter — FSU scores best in transition; Shaw plays best when it slows the tempo.

Key Factors to Watch

• Turnovers: FSU holds a +1.5 turnover margin, while Shaw gives up 24.4 turnovers per game — this could be decisive.
• Three-point shooting: FSU averages 5.8 threes per game; Shaw shoots a slightly better percentage.
• Bench production: FSU's depth scoring could separate the Broncos late.
• Protecting the paint: Shaw averages 7.1 blocks — rim attacks must be efficient.

Fayetteville State aims to defend its home floor and capture momentum early in its three‑game homestand. With strengths in playmaking, pressure defense, and depth, the Broncos enter as one of the CIAA's most consistent teams. Shaw, however, brings a physical group capable of complicating the game around the rim. If FSU controls pace, wins the turnover battle, and generates scoring opportunities in transition, the Broncos will be well‑positioned for a strong opener to the homestand.