Po’Boigh King delivered a clutch 16-point performance to propel the North Carolina Central Eagles (11-14, 4-4 MEAC) to a decisive 71-59 victory over Coppin State on Saturday. The Eagles’ sharpshooting trio dominated from beyond the arc, combining for 10 three-pointers in a critical conference clash.
King’s 4-for-7 three-point accuracy set the tone early, while teammate Aquan Smart achieved a rare perfect night, sinking all five field goals (3-for-3 from three). Floyd Rideau added nine points, rounding out NCCU’s perimeter-driven offense. Coppin State (4-19, 2-6 MEAC) leaned on Peter Oduro’s double-double (13 points, 12 rebounds), but struggled to counter NCCU’s 51.9% team three-point efficiency.
Key Factors in NCCU’s Win:
- 3-Point Dominance: NCCU shot 10-for-19 (52.6%) from deep.
- Bench Production: 34 points from non-starters, led by Smart’s flawless shooting.
- Defensive Pressure: Held Coppin State to 38.6% field goal accuracy.
The win strengthens NCCU’s position in the competitive MEAC standings, while Coppin State’s sixth conference loss complicates its postseason hopes. Both teams return to action Monday, with NCCU hosting Morgan State and Coppin State facing South Carolina State on the road.