In a clash of SWAC co-leaders, both riding hot streaks, Bethune-Cookman hosts Jackson State in a battle for first place in the league.
What’s on the line
Both teams enter 4-1 in conference play (tied for first with Florida A&M), with Bethune-Cookman at 7-11 overall after rallying for an 87-82 overtime road win at Arkansas-Pine Bluff, while Jackson State sits 5-13 following a 94-89 home victory over Texas Southern.
Preseason favorite Bethune-Cookman seeks to hold its top spot, while the Tigers—riding a four-game series win streak—aim for a statement road triumph.
Jackson State guard Daeshun Ruffin leads the team with 21.6 points and 5.5 assists overall (30.2 points, 9.8 assists in SWAC), including three straight double-doubles, such as a 22-point, 16-assist outing.
Jayme Mitchell Jr. adds 12.7 points and 4.1 rebounds, while Dorian McMillian (11.7 points) erupted for a career-high 25 versus Texas Southern.
Bethune-Cookman has been hot, too
The Wildcats enter on a roll following back-to-back road victories, capped by an 87-82 overtime comeback against Arkansas-Pine Bluff, where they erased a 17-point deficit with a 22-3 run.
Bethune-Cookman shot perfectly from the field in overtime (4-for-4) and sank 8-of-9 free throws to seal it, with senior guard Seneca Willoughby hitting a key three to open the extra period. Projections give the home team a slight 2-5 point edge, fueled by superior offensive efficiency.
Game information
When: Saturday, Jan. 24
Time: 4 p.m. EST
Network/Streaming: ESPNU
