The UNC Asheville Bulldogs aim to extend their flawless 13-0 home record Wednesday when they host the Presbyterian Blue Hose in a high-stakes Big South Conference showdown. Fresh off a career-high 30 points from standout guard Josh Banks against Longwood, Asheville seeks to solidify its top-tier conference standing.
Ranked first in the Big South with 10.2 offensive rebounds per game, the Bulldogs leverage second-chance opportunities through forward Toyaz Solomon (2.4 offensive boards per game). Their 47.4% team shooting accuracy directly challenges Presbyterian’s defensive strength – the Blue Hose allow just 45.8% shooting, ranking third in the conference.
This game hinges on controlling the paint,said ESPN analyst Rob Goodman. Asheville’s rebounding tenacity versus Presbyterian’s disciplined defense creates a must-watch tactical duel.
Key factors to watch:
- UNC Asheville’s Jordan Marsh averaging 22.7 PPG over last 10 games
- Presbyterian’s Jaylen Peterson: 6 rebounds + 1.6 blocks per contest
- Blue Hose’s 75.1 PPG offense vs Bulldogs’ 76.3 PPG defense
With both teams battling for postseason positioning, Asheville’s recent 8-2 surge contrasts Presbyterian’s 4-6 slump. The Bulldogs’ 45.5% shooting during this stretch could overwhelm if Presbyterian’s Kory Mincy (1.8 3PM/G last 10 games) fails to establish perimeter scoring.
Experts highlight Banks’ clutch performance history as the potential decider. His 44.7% three-point accuracy creates spacing challenges for opponents, while teammate Fletcher Abee adds 2.6 threes per game. For Presbyterian, containing Asheville’s backcourt duo remains critical to spring an upset.