As the Howard Bison gear up to host the South Carolina State Bulldogs, fans are eagerly anticipating a thrilling basketball showdown. This match marks a pivotal moment in the conference season for both teams. The game is scheduled for Monday at 7:30 p.m. EST in Washington, promising a competitive and entertaining clash.
The Howard Bison are looking to rebound from a recent overtime setback against the Hampton Pirates, where Blake Harper lit up the scoreboard with 35 impressive points. Harper, a key asset for the Bison, is not just a consistent scorer, boasting an average of 19.4 points per game, but also contributes significantly with 6.6 rebounds and 3.5 assists on average.
While Howard's home record stands at a solid 6-4, their overall performance in close contests has been less convincing, with a 3-7 record in games decided by 10 points or more. This statistic could play a crucial role as they face the Bulldogs, who are known for their resilience in conference play.
On the other side, the South Carolina State Bulldogs have shown their grit with a 3-3 mark in conference games. However, when it comes to nail-biting finishes, they've struggled, with no wins in games decided by three points or fewer this season. This match presents a fresh opportunity for them to change that narrative.
Analyzing team dynamics, Howard leads with an impressive average of 8.6 successful three-pointers per game—a significant advantage over South Carolina State’s allowance of 5.9. Yet, defensively, the Bison have areas to improve, allowing an average of 80.3 points per game compared to South Carolina State’s average 75.8 points.
Amongst the top performers, Marcus Dockery has been outstanding for Howard, averaging 17.6 points in the last ten games while supporting the team’s offensive strategies. Meanwhile, Wilson Dubinsky of the Bulldogs is a notable threat beyond the arc, with a 41.0% shooting accuracy and 1.6 three-pointers per game. Another Bulldog making waves is Drayton Jones, posting a commendable 47.5% shooting efficiency and averaging 12.3 points recently.
Delving into their last ten games, the Bison have faced tough competition, emerging with a 3-7 record, averaging 79 points per game while allowing opponents a higher 83.5. They also average 27.5 rebounds and 17 assists, showcasing a balanced approach in defense and playmaking.
The Bulldogs boast a 4-6 record in the same span, recording 73.4 points per game while maintaining a tighter defense, letting opponents score only 71.3 on average. Their rebounding efforts are robust, averaging 30.3 boards, indicative of their determination in controlling the court.
As both teams prepare to face each other for the first time this season, fans anticipate an electrifying contest full of passion and skilled play. The matchup not only tests strategic plays but will highlight standout individual performances seeking to make a mark in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC).