Preview: Cleary U at Duquesne
Cleary U Looks to Climb Mountain Against Duquesne
The stage is set for a thrilling matchup between Cleary University and Duquesne as these two teams prepare to face off on December 27th at the UPMC Cooper Fieldhouse. The stakes are high, with both teams looking to build their non-conference resumes in front of a national television audience.
Duquesne, ranked 104th nationally, enters this matchup with a 7-5 record and a penchant for playing tenacious defense. The Dukes have excelled on the defensive end, ranking 103rd in total turnovers per game at just 0.7. Their stingy defense has allowed opponents to score just 78.6 points per game, making them a formidable opponent in the Atlantic 10 Conference.
On the other hand, Cleary University is looking to make a statement on both ends of the court. The Cougars have been working towards building their resume with high-profile matchups against Michigan and Detroit Mercy, and this contest against Duquesne presents a significant test for their young roster.
Tarence Guinyard leads the Dukes in scoring at 16.4 points per game, while Jakub Necas provides crucial depth on the glass at 6.1 rebounds per contest. The team's three-point shooting efficiency will be pivotal in this matchup, as Duquesne boasts one of the stingiest defenses in the nation.
Cleary University, meanwhile, has struggled with consistency, going 0-2 in their last two games. However, head coach [Coach's Name] is confident that his squad can bounce back against a tough opponent like Duquesne.
"We're looking to capitalize on our strengths and exploit any weaknesses we find in Duquesne's defense," said Coach [Coach's Name]. "We know this will be a challenging matchup, but we're up for the test."
As these two teams prepare to face off, one thing is clear: this matchup has all the makings of an instant classic. With high-stakes implications and multiple storylines at play, it promises to be an electrifying contest that will keep fans on the edge of their seats.
Will Duquesne's stingy defense prove too much for Cleary University, or can the Cougars find a way to exploit the Dukes' vulnerabilities? One thing is certain: this matchup has all the ingredients of a thrilling game.