The Hofstra men’s basketball team (20-8) looks to make it nine straight wins in Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) play when they welcome the Hampton University Pirates (6-21) to the David S. Mack Sports and Exhibition Complex today. Feb. 16, at 7 p.m.
The Pride, riding an eight game win streak, as well as a 13-2 first-place conference record, have not lost a game in a month, last losing to Towson University on Jan. 16. Since then, the Pride have found their rhythm, winning game after game at home and on the road. The Pride have been anchored all year by their dominant guard pairing of senior Aaron Estrada, and sophomore Jaquan Carlos. Estrada’s 20.9 points per game and Carlos’ 4.8 assists per game both lead the CAA and are main contributors for the offensive success the Pride have enjoyed so far this season.
Outside of Estrada and Carlos, Hofstra has seen strong contributions from senior Tyler Thomas (15.8) and sophomore Darlinstone Dubar (10.3), who are each averaging double digit points per game so far this season. After scoring 66 points in a 66-52 win over Drexel University on Monday, their second lowest tally in a victory the season, the Pride have a golden opportunity to score plenty of points against Hampton.
Hofstra averages 74.1 points per game, which is good for second in the conference. On the flip side, the Pirates allow an average of 77.1 points per game, by far the most points allowed per game by any team in the CAA, giving Hofstra a favorable matchup on paper.
Although Hampton has lost their last four games, the Pirates are still a team that has seen some success in CAA play. Hampton are 3-11 in the CAA this season and have secured victories over teams such as Delaware, William & Mary and Monmouth.
Hampton’s scoring is led by sophomore guard Jordan Nesbitt, who’s 15.0 points per game lead the team. Also averaging double digits are senior Marquis Goodwin (13.0) and senior Russell Dean. (12.8)
The Pride have only faced off against the Pirates on one other occasion. Earlier this year, on Jan. 5, 2023, the Pride defeated the Pirates 67-51 at Hampton. The Pride look to complete the season sweep today. The game will start at 7 p.m. and will be available to watch on FloSports.
Photo courtesy of Evan Bernstein/Hofstra Athletics
