The VMI Keydets are set to face off against the Western Carolina Catamounts in an exciting Southern Conference (SoCon) matchup this Saturday in Cullowhee, North Carolina. Riding high on their recent victory over the Wofford Terriers, VMI is aiming to solidify its position with another win, fueled by TJ Johnson's impressive 20-point performance in their last outing.
Currently holding a 10-12 overall record with a 4-5 standing in the conference, the Keydets are eager to continue their positive momentum. The Western Carolina Catamounts, who are at 6-14 for the season and 2-7 in the conference, will pose a challenging opponent on their home court, where they have achieved a balanced 5-5 record.
Western Carolina's offensive strategy this season has heavily relied on their ability to grab offensive rebounds, with Vernon Collins leading the team's effort at 2.1 offensive boards per game. Despite facing struggles in their SoCon games, the Catamounts’ determination has been evident, especially in the contributions of players like Bernard Pelote, who is averaging 13.5 points and 7.3 rebounds, and Cord Stansberry, who has added 12.0 points per game in recent matches.
For VMI, TJ Johnson's prowess from beyond the arc has been a significant factor, as he boasts a 37.6% three-point shooting percentage with an average of 2.8 threes per game, contributing to his 12.9 points average. Complementing his efforts is Rickey Bradley Jr., a key player who has been averaging 19.1 points and 1.8 steals over the past 10 games, ensuring that VMI's offensive threats remain versatile.
Analyzing their recent performances, the Catamounts have faced a tough stretch, recording a 3-7 win-loss with averages of 66.5 points and 33.4 rebounds per game. Their defense has shown vulnerabilities, with opponents scoring an average of 80.2 points against them.
On the other hand, VMI's recent form has shown resilience with a 4-6 record, averaging 70.4 points and 42.4% shooting from the field in their last 10 contests. Their defense has also been stronger, allowing 73.3 points per game, showing a positive margin against competitive opponents.
This matchup promises to be a tactical battle, with VMI looking to leverage their outside shooting and defensive strategies against Western Carolina's inside game and rebounding prowess. As both teams continue to navigate through the SoCon challenges, this game provides an opportunity for standout performances that could influence their standings significantly.
Stay tuned this Saturday at 3:30 p.m. EST for an intense game that showcases the dynamic energy of college basketball in the Southern Conference, as VMI aims to extend their winning run while Western Carolina seeks to make the most of their home advantage.