Can the Bearkats Claw Victory at Pan American Center?
As the Sam Houston State Bearkats prepare to face off against the New Mexico State Aggies at the Pan American Center, fans are eager to see if their team can bounce back from a recent string of challenging games. The Bearkats' performance has been a rollercoaster, but there's reason to believe they could turn things around in their upcoming clash.
In their last game on December 21st against Grand Canyon Antelopes, SHSU showed promise in fast break situations, scoring 18 points. However, they struggled beyond the arc with an 18 percent three-point shooting percentage and ultimately fell short with a final score of 64-76. Despite this loss, there were positive takeaways: SHSU demonstrated resilience in points scored within the paint (38) and maintained a free throw percentage of 79.
Earlier on December 16th, when facing Texas State Bobcats at home, SHSU was edged out with a close score of 60-73. Their defense faltered as they failed to record any blocks and committed personal fouls that led to easy points for Texas State from free throws. Yet again though, SHSU excelled inside by scoring most of their points from within the paint (34) and securing rebounds on both ends.
The game against Louisiana-Monroe Warhawks on December 13th showcased another aspect of SHSU's potential; they capitalized on turnovers by scoring 21 points off them and displayed an aggressive defense with seven steals. Although only achieving a field goal percentage of 37 percent overall that night, it was enough for them to edge out ULM with a final tally of 63-62.
The pattern is clear: when SHSU focuses on interior play and capitalizes on turnovers while maintaining aggression in defense without fouling excessively, they stand strong against opponents. The key for victory against NMSU will be improving perimeter shooting while continuing to exploit these strengths.
Looking ahead at NMSU's home advantage may pose additional challenges for SHSU; however, if they can control the pace through fast breaks and maintain defensive intensity without giving away too many fouls or free throws opportunities – as seen in past performances – there is every chance that victory could be within reach.
Bearkat fans should mark their calendars for February 22nd at 8:00 PM CT when Sam Houston takes its fight into enemy territory at Las Cruces' Pan American Center. This pivotal matchup will be broadcasted nationally via CBS Sports Network channel number two hundred twenty-one – an opportunity not just for redemption but also for showcasing true grit and determination that defines Bearkat basketball.