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Tarleton State vs Seattle: WAAC Basketball Showdown Analysis

Battle of Contrasting Momentum: Team Overview

The hardwood at Connolly Center sets the stage for an intriguing WAAC conference matchup between the Tarleton State Texans and Seattle Redhawks. This clash features two programs moving in opposite directions – the Texans riding a two-game winning streak while the Redhawks look to snap a concerning three-game skid.

Seattle Redhawks: Searching for Answers

The Seattle Redhawks (8-13, 8-11 ATS) find themselves in a challenging position, having dropped their last three contests. Their recent 83-74 loss to Grand Canyon highlighted a recurring issue – the inability to maintain leads. Despite holding a promising 44-39 advantage at halftime, the Redhawks’ second-half performance fell short.

The silver lining comes in the form of Matthew-Alexander Moncrieffe‘s consistent excellence. The standout performer continues to impress, averaging 15.4 points while maintaining an efficient 56.8% shooting percentage. His recent 20-point, 9-rebound performance against Grand Canyon demonstrates his ability to produce even in defeat.

Tarleton State’s Rising Momentum

The Texans (10-13, 12-10 ATS) enter this matchup with growing confidence, backed by consecutive victories over Utah Tech (61-54) and Southern Utah (75-58). Their defensive prowess was particularly evident in their last outing, where they held Southern Utah to just 23 first-half points.

Led by Bubu Benjamin‘s steady production (15.3 PPG, 46.2% FG, 38.5% from three), Tarleton State has shown the ability to compete despite ranking 349th nationally in offense. Their success often stems from their ability to get to the free-throw line, averaging 17.1 attempts per game (25th in NCAA).

Statistical Breakdown and Trends

The contrast in offensive capabilities tells an interesting story:

• Seattle averages 72.9 points per game (224th nationally)

• Tarleton State manages 65.2 points per game (349th nationally)

• Defensively, both teams are relatively comparable (Seattle: 69.4 PPG allowed, Tarleton: 70.2 PPG allowed)

• Seattle’s defense ranks 113th nationally, while Tarleton’s sits at 136th

Game Impact and Strategic Analysis

This matchup carries significant implications for both programs’ conference positioning. Seattle’s home-court advantage could prove crucial, especially considering Tarleton State’s road struggles (1-12 away from home). The Redhawks’ superior offensive capabilities suggest they could exploit the Texans’ scoring limitations.

Insights

What’s the most crucial factor in this matchup?

Home court advantage will play a decisive role. Tarleton State’s single road victory this season highlights their struggles away from home, while Seattle, despite recent struggles, has shown more competence on their home floor.

Can Tarleton State’s defense keep them competitive?

While their defense has been solid, their offensive limitations (349th nationally) make it difficult to keep pace with Seattle’s more potent scoring attack, especially on the road.

Who are the key players to watch?

Matthew-Alexander Moncrieffe (Seattle) and Bubu Benjamin (Tarleton State) will be the focal points. Moncrieffe’s efficiency and Benjamin’s three-point shooting could determine the outcome.

Final Analysis and Prediction

Despite Tarleton State’s recent success, their road performance issues and offensive limitations present significant hurdles. Seattle, though struggling, possesses the offensive firepower to exploit these weaknesses. The Redhawks’ home-court advantage, combined with their superior scoring ability, positions them favorably to end their losing streak. Expect Seattle to control the tempo and secure a much-needed victory, potentially covering the spread through their ability to push the pace and capitalize on Tarleton State’s road struggles.