Preview: ALFRED ST at Cornell

ALFRED ST at Cornell: A Non-Conference Showdown of Skill and Strategy

The Ivy League's top-ranked team, Cornell, is set to host Alfred St in a matchup that promises to be a thrilling display of basketball prowess. The Big Red, led by senior guard Cooper Noard's 21.4 points per game average, look to extend their winning streak against a tough opponent.

For Alfred St, the trip to Ithaca presents an opportunity to build momentum and add some much-needed wins to their resume. With a team that prides itself on its stingy defense, the Golden Bulls will need to find ways to break down Cornell's suffocating press.

One key factor in this matchup is three-point shooting efficiency. The Big Red boast one of the nation's best three-point units, with Kaspar Sepp sinking five five-pointers per game and Jacob Beccles dishing out 3.3 assists per contest. Alfred St will need to make some clutch beyond-the-arc shots to keep pace.

But Cornell's depth and experience could be the difference-maker. The Golden Bulls' bench has been inconsistent, while Cornell's reserves have consistently provided a boost off the bench. This matchup could serve as a valuable learning experience for the younger players on Alfred St.

As both teams look to build their non-conference resumes, this contest is shaping up to be an instant classic. Will Cornell's well-oiled machine prove too much for the Golden Bulls' pesky defense? Or can Alfred St find ways to exploit some of the Big Red's defensive vulnerabilities?

The stage is set for a highly anticipated showdown between two teams with distinct styles and strengths. With the stakes high and the talent on display, this matchup promises to be an unforgettable night in Ithaca.