We do know that Monmouth has been successful on the road this season. They have won seven of their last 12 games, making them the most consistent road winners in the country. Despite losing to Hofstra at home, the Hawks have won 10 of their 12 previous wins. They also hold a NCAA NET ranking 65.
Shaheen Holloway, Saint Peter's coach, said that Monmouth is a great team. Marcus McClary is the key to my success. He is amazing right now. George Papas is doing well. They are both older, which is always a plus. Walker Miller (center) from North Carolina is also amazing.
"They have won great non-conference games, which is great news for them and the league."
George Papas, Monmouth, had a double-double. He finished with 19 points, 11 rebounds and a win in the Hawks' 79–65 victory over Canisius at Buffalo, New York, on December 5, 2021.
Saint Peter's, at 64-63, was last seen on the road to America East's preseason favorite Stony Brook.
Monmouth coach King Rice stated that "(Holloway), is really a great coach and they haven’t played like their teams have played in past years yet." They got KC Ndefo back, but it took a while because you didn’t know he would be returning until the season. (Holloway) likely had his plans already and the kids are becoming more comfortable. Your star returns and changes the entire composition of your group. Shaheen Holloway will make sure they are all set by the time you have everything ready.
These are the keys to Monmouth. For complete coverage, be sure to check back Friday night.
1. Paint is strong
This is the most difficult test for Monmouth's front court, which has exceeded all expectations with the addition of Miller (6-11 graduate transfer from North Carolina) who averages 14.9 points per game and 6.8 rebounds.
Ndefo is Saint Peter's 6-7 forward and the reigning MAAC Defensive player of the year. He also was the preseason pick to be Player of the year. Fousseyni Drame (a 6-7 forward) is averaging 9.9 points per game, while Hassan Drame averages 4.2 off the bench.
Rice stated that Walker had talked to Rice about Walker's character and their approach to life. "But I want them to deal with our men. Walker needs to be dealt with.
There are many very talented guys in this league, but Day'Ron Sharpe is probably the best, having played against him every day at North Carolina and now playing with Brooklyn. He's been in many situations and has seen a lot of things, but it's not all out yet.
2. Run, run, run
Monmouth's best moments are when it pushes the pace. Its pressure defense ignites the fast break. Saint Peter's would love to make this a half-court match.
The Peacocks are favoured if the winning score is below 65. If it is higher than that, expect the Hawks to win.
Monmouth is 6-1 when they score 75 or more points this season. They couldn't outrun St. John's road, falling 88-83.
St. John's is a common enemy, with Saint Peter's being defeated by the Red Storm, 91-70.
3. Star power
Papas is the Monmouth's MVP and leading scorer this season. The Lou Henson Award is given each year to the nation's top Mid-Major player. Justin Robinson, Monmouth’s all-time leading scorer won the award in 2017.
Papas is the Hawks' leader. Papas's enthusiasm ignites the whole team. He averages 16.3 points per game, has the highest team score and has the highest number of assists, steals and rebounding.
The Hawks are unable to win when he is off the court. He's only 6-of-31 on the floor and 4-of-27 from 3 point range in their three losses. In their last game against Hofstra, he was 2-11 from long range. In two career games, he's been 4-of-14 from the floor. He was also 1-of-8 from 3-point range.
For complete coverage and analysis on Friday's important MAAC game, be sure to check back here.
