NCCU Eagles Prepare for Pivotal MEAC Showdown with South Carolina State
Durham, N.C. – The North Carolina Central University Eagles are set to conclude their regular season with a crucial matchup against the South Carolina State Bulldogs on Thursday, March 5th, at 5:00 p.m. In McDougald-McLendon Arena. The game will be broadcast live on ESPNU, offering fans a chance to witness a contest with significant implications for the upcoming 2026 MEAC Basketball Tournament.
Series History and Recent Form
While North Carolina Central historically dominates the series with a 38-26 lead, recent results have favored South Carolina State. The Bulldogs have won the last three meetings, including an 85-72 victory in mid-February. This recent trend adds extra intensity to Thursday’s game as the Eagles aim to break the streak.
NCCU enters the game on a high note, having secured two consecutive road wins against Delaware State (74-60) and Maryland Eastern Shore (77-73). Key performances from Kyric Davis and Kelechi Okworogwo against Delaware State and a 23-point outing from Gage Lattimore against Maryland Eastern Shore, have fueled their winning momentum.
South Carolina State, meanwhile, experienced a split result during their recent trip to Maryland, falling to UMES before securing a narrow 61-59 win over Delaware State. Jayden Johnson and Owen Bronston Jr. Lead the Bulldogs in scoring, averaging 13.1 and 10.6 points per game, respectively.
Tournament Seeding on the Line
The stakes are high as both teams vie for favorable seeding in the MEAC Tournament. North Carolina Central currently shares third place in the MEAC standings with Norfolk State. The outcome of Howard’s game against Norfolk State, combined with Thursday’s result, will likely determine the No. 3 and No. 4 seeds. A strong finish could significantly impact the Eagles’ path to the tournament championship.
Key Players to Watch
For North Carolina Central, all eyes will be on Gage Lattimore, who has demonstrated a scoring prowess, and Kelechi Okworogwo, a rebounding force. For South Carolina State, Jayden Johnson and Owen Bronston Jr. Will be crucial in leading the Bulldogs’ offensive efforts. Cameron Clark and Chris Parker will be key players in controlling the boards for SCSU.
How to Watch and Follow
Fans can catch the action live on ESPNU. Live stats will be available here, and tickets can be purchased here.
FAQ
Q: Where will the game be played?
A: McDougald-McLendon Arena in Durham, N.C.
Q: What time does the game start?
A: 5:00 p.m. On Thursday, March 5th.
Q: Where can I watch the game?
A: The game will be broadcast live on ESPNU.
Q: What is at stake in this game?
A: Tournament seeding for the upcoming MEAC Basketball Tournament.
Q: Who leads the all-time series?
A: North Carolina Central leads the series 38-26, but South Carolina State has won the last three matchups.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the rebounding battle. Both teams have key players who excel on the boards, and controlling the glass could be a deciding factor in the outcome.
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