Sandwiched in between two high-level programs in Penn State and Texas comes Georgia State, and boy, do the Hoyas need this one. After a dismal performance against Penn State, Georgetown not only needs this win because they’re the better team, but also because the reassurance of a final score with the Hoyas on top is what everyone needs right now.
The Georgia State Panthers, fresh off a competitive 74-63 loss against Duke, come to the Hilltop with a 1-2 record, with their sole victory coming from a rout of Brewton-Parker. A close 84-80 loss to Charleston seems more indicative of what the Panthers are able to do. Led by junior guard Kane Williams, the Panthers provide a balanced scoring attack with their starting five. Four of their five starters are averaging at least 10 points per game, as this high-powered offense averages 82 points a game. This provides a good chance for the Hoyas to show if they have learned their lesson from their poor defensive performances thus far this season.
Georgia State has become an increasingly respected program in recent years. Since 2015, the Panthers have appeared in the NCAA tournament three times. As champions of the Sun Belt Conference the last two years, the Panthers are certainly a team on the rise. This past offseason, they replaced their entire coaching staff, and hired head coach Rob Lanier who was previously an associate head coach at Texas, Tennessee, and Florida. After the departure of Ron Hunter to Tulane, the Panthers are hoping Lanier can continue his success. In addition to a new coaching staff, the Panthers lost their top four scorers from last season and are looking to rebuild and establish a strong core. This stretch of away games against Duke and Georgetown are monumental from this Panther program, and will certainly put Lanier to the test.
The Hoyas last played Georgia State in November of 1998, where they came out on top 83-68. In tomorrow’s game, Georgetown has the clear advantage on the inside. Georgia State was outrebounded by Duke 54-29, making it clear where the Hoyas need to take advantage.
Rebounding was a problem for Georgia State against Duke, as they allowed the Blue Devils to convert numerous second-chance opportunities.
Look for Josh LeBlanc and Omer Yurtseven to execute and make an impact in the paint. Lanier’s game plan is likely to force LeBlanc to knock down jumpers and to keep Yurtseven off the offensive glass, taking away opportunities for putbacks. If the Hoyas are able to dominate inside, it will be hard for Georgia State to compete.
A key matchup to watch will be Mac McClung against Kane Williams. Williams, coming off a 16-point performance against Duke, is the leader for this Georgia State team, and will likely be tasked with shutting down McClung. He provides the energy for the Panthers, much like McClung does for Georgetown.
Kane Williams forces a Duke turnover and then finishes at the rim in transition.
When Williams plays well, so does Georgia State. Especially given McClung’s dismal performance and abbreviated minutes on Thursday, this matchup could determine who comes away victorious.
Georgia State should not be underestimated. As a now reputable program, some are expecting them to come into Capital One Arena and upset the Hoyas, especially after keeping it close with Duke on Friday night. Georgetown needs to produce an above average performance, especially on the defensive end. A loss could lead to a slippery slope for the Hoyas, with a tough stretch coming up in the Empire Classic. The Hoyas have a lot to prove today, and a victory could provide that boost they need before heading to New York.
Kathryn’s prediction (0-0 on the year): Georgetown 78, Georgia State 72
Jacob’s prediction (3-0 on the year): Georgetown 85, Georgia State 80
Will’s prediction (2-1 on the year): Georgetown 77, Georgia State 69
