Florida International logo
FIU
@
KENN
Kennesaw State logo
January 15, 2026
KSU Convocation Center
Pre-Game Analysis

Preview: FIU at Kennesaw St

Kennesaw St Takes on FIU in High-Stakes Showdown

The stage is set for an electrifying college basketball matchup as Kennesaw State hosts Florida International University. The Owls, led by the potent offense of Simeon Cottle, will look to take down their Sun Belt rivals and make a statement against a conference opponent.

Meanwhile, the Panthers, spearheaded by Corey Stephenson's explosive scoring, are seeking to bounce back from a tough stretch of games that saw them fall short in several contests. Can FIU's high-powered offense find its rhythm once more?

The Key Matchups

One matchup that will undoubtedly define this game is the battle between Kennesaw State's Frankquon Sherman and Florida International University's Eric Dibami on the glass. Both big men are known for their rebounding prowess, but who will come out on top in this crucial battle?

Another critical matchup revolves around the Panthers' Zawdie Jackson's speed and agility versus the Owls' Simeon Cottle's quickness. Can either of these players exploit the other's weaknesses to create scoring opportunities?

Bench Production: The X-Factor

While both teams have a strong starting lineup, it's their bench production that could make all the difference in this game. Kennesaw State's reserves have been a revelation this season, with several contributors averaging double-digit minutes and producing significant impact on both ends of the floor.

FIU's bench, too, has shown flashes of brilliance, particularly from its perimeter players. If either team can find consistent production from their reserves, they'll be well on their way to securing a crucial conference win.

Recent Form: A Tale of Two Teams

Kennesaw State enters this matchup on the heels of a disappointing stretch, having lost four of their last five games. However, with a renewed focus and a healthy Simeon Cottle leading the charge, the Owls are poised for a bounce-back performance.

FIU, meanwhile, has been somewhat inconsistent but remains hungry for a win after falling short in several recent contests. With Corey Stephenson at the helm, the Panthers have shown the ability to put together impressive performances when their offense is clicking.

Game Preview: A Battle of Wits

As these two teams face off, it will be a battle of wits between offense and defense. Kennesaw State's high-powered attack will look to exploit FIU's defensive weaknesses, while the Panthers' coaching staff will attempt to find ways to contain the Owls' potent scoring duo.

One thing is certain: this game will be an instant classic, with each team leaving everything on the court in pursuit of victory. Will it be Kennesaw State's Simeon Cottle and Frankquon Sherman who lead their team to a thrilling comeback? Or will Corey Stephenson and Florida International University's potent offense prove too much for the Owls to handle?

The stage is set, the players are ready, and the game is primed for greatness. Stay tuned as we count down the hours until tip-off and get ready to witness an unforgettable matchup between Kennesaw State and FIU!

Generated by AI 490 words 2.5 min read
Tags: Kennesaw St FIU college basketball

Related Articles

Pre-Game

Preview: Sam Houston at FIU

**Face-Off: FIU Panthers vs Sam Houston Bearkats** The stage is set for a thrilling matchup between the Florida International University Panthers and...

Jan 12, 2026 Read More →
Pre-Game

Preview: Kennesaw St at Western KY

**Western Kentucky vs Kennesaw State: A Clash of High-Scoring Offenses** In a matchup between two high-powered offenses, Western Kentucky and Kennesa...

Jan 12, 2026 Read More →
Pre-Game

Preview: FIU at Missouri St

**Missouri St. Bulldogs Take on FIU Panthers in Highly Anticipated Showdown** In a battle of contrasting styles, the Missouri State University (MSU) ...

Jan 09, 2026 Read More →