Preview: Game 22 Showdown Against Louisiana Tech
Sam Houston State’s basketball team is set to face off against Louisiana Tech in a crucial Conference USA showdown. The game will take place on Saturday, January 31, at 9 PM CST at Johnson Coliseum, Huntsville. This matchup is particularly significant following the Bearkats’ recent success, which has propelled them to a five-game winning streak.
Current Standings and Context
The Bearkats hold a record of 14-7 overall and 6-4 in Conference USA, while Louisiana Tech comes in with a 12-8 record, including a 5-4 mark in the conference. The two teams have a historical rivalry, with Sam Houston trailing the series 3-6.
Recent Performance
- Sam Houston began Conference USA play with three losses.
- However, they rebounded to win six of their last seven games, including crucial victories at home and on the road.
- The winning streak started with a significant road victory against Missouri State with a score of 80-71.
A Spotlight on Key Players
Guard King has been pivotal for the Bearkats, highlighting his recent performance by earning CUSA Co-Player of the Week honors. He posted impressive averages of 25.0 points, with a shooting percentage of 58% from the field and three-point range in his last games.
Freshman duo Jacob Walker and Jacoby Coleman has also made notable contributions, averaging 8.2 and 7.6 points per game, respectively. Their combined scoring makes them the top freshman scoring pair in Conference USA.
Defensive and Offensive Strengths
Defensively, Kashie Natt stands out, ranking 18th nationally in steals, with an impressive total of 48 steals this season. He averages 2.29 steals per game, leading the Conference USA in this category.
Offensively, Veljko Ilic has also made a mark, averaging 11.0 points and 7.2 rebounds per game. His performances have been crucial during the Bearkats’ success, especially following injuries in the post.
Rebounding and Team Depth
Sam Houston excels in offensive rebounds, averaging 14.00 per game, ranking 13th in the nation. Their shooting efficiency is also noteworthy, with a shooting percentage of 47.1%, ranking second in the league.
The bench has played a vital role this season, contributing significantly to the team’s overall scoring. They are currently 39th nationally in bench points, averaging 30.33 per game.
Conclusion
As the Bearkats prepare for their clash with Louisiana Tech, their recent form and key player performances will be critical. Fans can catch the game live on ESPN2 or on the Bearkat Sports Network.
