Fresno State Bulldogs Host Sacramento State Hornets at Save Mart Center in Women's Basketball Showdown
As the Fresno State Bulldogs prepare to host the Sacramento State Hornets at the Save Mart Center, fans are eager for what promises to be an intense matchup in women's basketball. The Bulldogs have had a rollercoaster season thus far, but their upcoming game presents an opportunity to turn the tide and showcase their resilience on home turf.
In their last outing on December 9 against Cal Poly Mustangs at Robert A. Mott Gymnasium, Fresno State struggled defensively, allowing 84 points and suffering from a low assists turnover ratio of 0.64. Their shooting percentages were lackluster with field goals at just 33 percent and free throws at a mere 63 percent. These statistics paint a picture of a team that needs to tighten up its defense and improve its shot selection.
However, it wasn't all doom and gloom for Fresno State; they demonstrated potential in offensive rebounds with 11 grabs against Cal Poly. This is an area where they can capitalize against Sacramento State if they maintain aggression under the basket.
Comparing this performance to their game on December 7 versus Cal State Fullerton Titans where they scored 68 points with better field goal percentage of around 42 percent shows some inconsistency in their play style which needs addressing before facing off with SAC.
The most promising aspect comes from FRES's game on December 3 against UC San Diego Tritons where they emerged victorious with a score of 71-52. The Bulldogs showcased what they're capable of when everything clicks: solid defense leading to turnovers (16 steals), efficient scoring (47 percent field goal percentage), and exceptional three-point shooting (52 percent). If this version of FRES shows up against SAC, fans are in for an electrifying performance.
The Hornets will not make it easy though; as opponents, they bring their own set of challenges that FRES must overcome. It will be crucial for Fresno State to control the pace early on and establish dominance inside the paint while keeping turnovers low.
Looking ahead, there is cautious optimism surrounding FRES as they approach this pivotal match-up. With home-court advantage and lessons learned from past performances, there is every chance that Fresno can deliver an assertive win if players like Hanna Cavinder step up once again as she has done throughout her career with impressive scoring runs.
Fans should mark their calendars for December 16th when these two teams clash at Save Mart Center in Fresno at 2:00 PM local time (5:00 PM ET). There won't be any broadcast networks covering the event live but those who wish to support FRES can catch updates through social media platforms or attend the game personally to witness what could be a defining moment for Bulldog basketball this season.