The Albany Great Danes are set to host the NJIT Highlanders in an exciting America East basketball showdown on Saturday at 4 p.m. EST in Albany, New York. In this clash, Albany seeks redemption following their thrilling overtime encounter with the UMBC Retrievers, where they narrowly lost 92-87 despite Amar'e Marshall's impressive 25-point performance.
The Great Danes have demonstrated resilience on their home turf, boasting a balanced 4-4 record. Their ability to maintain composure in tight matchups is evident as they have succeeded 1-0 in one-possession games this season. Albany has been solid in their shooting efficiency, registering a 44.5% shooting accuracy, surpassing the 42.5% usually conceded by NJIT to their rivals.
On the other hand, the NJIT Highlanders have been struggling in the America East Conference, holding a 1-4 record. Their efforts in games decided by significant margins have been lackluster, with a 1-11 record in matches that ended with a 10-point difference or more. The Highlanders have averaged 6.1 successful three-point shots per game, slightly less than the average conceded by Albany, which stands at 6.6.
This meeting marks the first America East encounter this season between these two teams, as they each strive to improve their standings. Key players in focus include Amar'e Marshall, who is leading Albany with an average of 13.9 points per night and contributing defensively with 1.6 steals per game. His performance, alongside DeMarr Langford Jr.'s consistent 11.7 points over the last ten games, is vital for Albany's success.
The Highlanders will lean on their standout player, Tariq Francis, who has been instrumental with an average of 18.3 points and 4.3 rebounds per game. Quentin Duncan is going to be another critical player to watch, bringing his outside shooting into play with an average of 0.9 three-pointers in the previous ten games.
Reviewing their last ten games, Albany has shown some competitive edge with a 4-6 record. They have been scoring an average of 73.6 points per game, complemented by 33.2 rebounds, 11.5 assists, and 6.9 steals, while maintaining a field goal percentage of 43.7%. However, they have allowed opponents slightly more at an average of 76.3 points per game, indicating a need for tighter defense.
Conversely, the Highlanders' recent form has been less reassuring, with a 3-7 record as they have averaged 62.9 points, buttressed by 36.2 rebounds, 9.9 assists, and 5.1 steals, along with 4.4 blocks each game. Notably, their shooting accuracy hovers at 39.6%, and they have allowed opponents to score an average of 66.7 points.
This match promises to be a crucial test of skill and strategy as Albany and NJIT seek pivotal wins to boost their positions within the conference standings, offering fans a thrilling display of college basketball at its best.