This Saturday, basketball fans will witness a notable clash as the Coppin State Eagles (12-9, 3-2 MEAC) face off against the Delaware State Hornets (3-15, 0-5 MEAC) at 2 p.m. EST in Baltimore. This conference game is crucial for both teams, each looking to either maintain their form or turn the tides.
Coppin State’s Home Dominance
The Eagles have been impressive this season, especially on their home turf, where they boast a perfect 6-0 record. They've shown resilience in close games, holding a 5-7 record in matchups decided by 10 points or more. Leading the charge is Angel Jones, whose recent 20-point performance played a pivotal role in their 61-56 victory against Morgan State Bears.
Coppin State takes pride in their three-point prowess, averaging 6.6 made shots from beyond the arc per game. This strategy will challenge Delaware State's defense, which typically allows 5.5 three-pointers per game.
Delaware State's Challenging Season
The Hornets have faced tough times this season in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC), yet to clinch a win in conference play with an 0-5 standing. However, Delaware State shows potential in tightly contested games, having a 1-1 record in games decided by 3 points or fewer.
Offensively, the Hornets have struggled, averaging 54.9 points per game, significantly trailing the points Coppin State allows, 65.6. Noteworthy players like Mahogany Cottingham and Kiarra Mcelrath have been crucial in delivering offensive plays, with respective averages of 13.1 and 13.6 points per game over the last ten matchups.
Key Players to Watch
For the Eagles, Tyler Gray's contributions have enhanced their game, with averages of 5.6 points, 3.4 assists, and 1.9 steals per contest. Complementing this effort, Laila Lawrence’s notable average of 16.0 points over the past ten games has been a cornerstone for their offense.
In contrast, despite Delaware State's overall struggles, Mahogany Cottingham shines with a commendable three-point shooting percentage of 38.2%. Her efforts can play a key role in any defensive lapses by Coppin State.
Recent Performance Insights
Analyzing recent performances, Coppin State is on a relatively strong footing, with a record of 6-4 in their last ten games. They have averaged 67.2 points, 31.6 rebounds, and a defensive 10.8 steals per matchup, showcasing robust all-around performance.
On the other hand, the Hornets are navigating a difficult stretch, with a ten-game losing streak. During this period, they've managed an average of 52.4 points, with rebounds and assists being areas needing enhancement.
The upcoming matchup is pivotal for both teams, offering Coppin State a chance to solidify their home advantage, while giving Delaware State an opportunity for a breakthrough.