The North Dakota State Bison are set to take on the Denver Pioneers this Saturday at 2 p.m. EST in Fargo, North Dakota. This comes after a thrilling 94-88 overtime victory against the Oral Roberts Golden Eagles, where Jacksen Moni delivered an impressive 32-point performance that sent ripples across the Summit League.
With a solid home game record of 9-4, the Bison are currently positioned third in the Summit League when it comes to team defense, allowing 73.8 points per game while maintaining a commendable opponent shooting percentage of 44.2%. This defensive prowess continues to be a cornerstone of their strategy as they face the Pioneers.
On the other side, the Denver Pioneers, despite their 3-9 record against Summit League adversaries, have demonstrated resilience. They are scoring an average of 72.8 points per game, slightly lower than North Dakota State's opponents typically manage. However, Denver’s shooting accuracy remains noteworthy at 44.9%.
A key advantage for North Dakota State comes from their exceptional prowess in three-point shooting, averaging 12 three-pointers per game. In comparison, Denver's defense permits an average of just 6.7 three-pointers per game, highlighting a potential tactical edge for the Bison.
Key players to watch include Jacari White, who is averaging 2.8 three-pointers per game while scoring 16.6 points and shooting 41.1% from the three-point line. Meanwhile, Jacksen Moni's recent form sees him shooting 49.3% and averaging 21.8 points in the last ten games, making him a formidable force on the court.
For Denver, Nicholas Shogbonyo has been a significant contributor, shooting 41.9% and averaging 13.4 points. Sebastian Akins adds depth, with an average of 1.0 three-pointers in recent games.
Examining the last ten games, the Bison have outshone their opponents with a 7-3 record, highlighted by an average of 81.0 points per game. This offensive strength is complemented by robust team play, including 30.9 rebounds and 14.8 assists per game, with their overall field goal percentage standing at an impressive 48.8%.
Conversely, the Pioneers have managed a 3-7 record in recent outings. They have averaged 67.5 points per game while focusing on a solid defense with 5.8 steals and 3.0 blocks, though opponents have scored an average of 76.1 points against them.
This upcoming match promises to be a significant contest in the Summit League. While North Dakota State will aim to leverage their home advantage and recent momentum, Denver will attempt to disrupt their flow with strategic defense and efficient scoring.
Stay tuned as the two teams clash in what is sure to be an engaging battle of skills and strategies, providing yet another highlight in this season's Summit League encounters.