George Washington (12-14) vs La Salle (12-13) When: Saturday, February 22nd at 4 pm.
Where: Charles E.Smith Center in Washington D.C.
TV: ESPN+ / Radio: TuneIn
George Washington - 67.2 - points per game 69.7 - points against 42.7 - Field goal % La Salle - 68.2 - points per game 69.8 - points against 41.1 - field goal %
Keep an eye on:
David Beatty: leads La Salle in scoring at 10.4 points a game. Beatty is fearless attacking off the bounce and draws a lot of attention in the paint which opens the floor up for his teammates. He's scored in double figures in six of La Salles last eight games, however, he isn't the most efficient scorer. Beatty is shooting 40 percent from the field, a little over 32 percent from deep and 67 percent from the line. If the Colonials stay disciplined defensively, they can force Beatty into a frustrating game. If they don't, he can get in rhythm and become difficult to slow down.
Toro vs Croswell: will be a good match-up to keep an eye on throughout the game. The 6'9 Arnaldo Toro is coming off a monster game in which he finished with 16 points and 14 rebounds to help lead George Washington to a win over Duquesne. La Salle's 6'8 sophomore Ed Croswell has blossomed this season, nearly averaging a double on the season (9.9 points, 7.6 rebounds) and has posted at least 10 points and 7 rebounds in five of the Explorers last six games which includes a 24 points, 18 rebound performance in an overtime loss to St Louis back on January 29th. Whichever one of these players owns the paint will more than likely ensure a win for respective teams.
Defending The Three: is something both the Colonials and Explorers excel at greatly. Both teams rank in the top four in the conference at defending the three. George Washington ranks fourth, holding opponents to 30.2 percent shooting from deep and La Salle ranks second in the A-10, locking down opponents to 29.8 percent shooting from three point territory. Yet, both teams rank in the top five in three point attempts with La Salle ranking third, attempting 621 three pointers and George Washington coming in at fifth in the conference, attempting 598 tre balls. Something will have to give this afternoon. Pay close attention to the three point shooting efficiency for both teams throughout the game.
Freshmen Production: is key for both teams. When the freshmen produce, it usual results in a win. When they remind people that they're freshmen, both teams struggle. George Washington's freshmen quartet of Jameer Nelson Jr, Jamison Battle, Chase Paar and Shawn Walker Jr average a combined 32.3 points, 15.8 rebounds and 5.1 assists. La Salles freshmen trio of Sherif Kenney (Rock Creek Christian), Ayinde Hikim (Wilson HS/ Mount Zion Prep) and Christian Ray average a combined 17.9 points, 9.1 rebounds and 6.5 assists. As you can see, consistent production from each teams freshmen is a must. An interesting dynamic in this game to focus on.
