Can Rice Owls Upset Wichita State Shockers in Forthcoming Clash?

As the Rice University Owls prepare to face the Wichita State Shockers, fans are bracing for an electrifying encounter. The upcoming game at Dickies Arena is poised to be a pivotal moment for the Owls, who have shown both flashes of brilliance and areas of concern in their recent performances.

In their last outing on March 10 against North Texas' Mean Green, the Owls fell short with a final score of 55-71. Despite this loss, there were positive takeaways; notably, they converted 73 percent from the free-throw line and grabbed 34 rebounds. However, their field goal percentage was just 37 percent and three-point shooting was at a lowly 29 percent. These statistics highlight an area that needs significant improvement if they are to compete with teams like Wichita State.

The Shockers have been formidable opponents this season as evidenced by their commanding victory over RICE on March 3 with an impressive scoreline of 87-66. In that game, WICH showcased lethal accuracy from beyond the arc hitting an astounding 64 percent of three-point attempts and maintaining a strong overall field goal percentage at 53 percent.

RICE's defense will need to step up significantly to contain WICH's sharpshooters. The key could lie in RICE's ability to disrupt WICH's rhythm and force turnovers while capitalizing on fast-break opportunities themselves – areas where they've shown potential but lacked consistency.

Offensively, RICE must find ways to improve shot selection and execution if they hope to keep pace with WICH’s high-scoring offense. This means not only increasing their own three-point percentage but also continuing their strong performance from the free-throw line which could prove crucial in close-game situations.

The match-up also presents an opportunity for RICE players who have been underperforming or inconsistent throughout the season to step up. A collective effort is required where each player contributes defensively while being more judicious with ball possession – reducing turnovers will be essential against a team like WICH that can quickly turn those mistakes into points.

Looking ahead optimistically yet realistically, it’s clear that while RICE faces a tough opponent in Wichita State, basketball is unpredictable by nature; any given game can defy expectations. With strategic adjustments and heightened focus on both ends of the court, it’s possible for RICE to emerge as victors despite recent setbacks.

Fans eager to witness whether RICE can orchestrate an upset should mark their calendars for March 13 at noon when these two teams clash at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth. The game promises intensity and competition as both teams vie for supremacy on court – all accessible via ESPN+ online broadcast network.