Monmouth Hawks Expecting Improvement Against Youngstown State Penguins

The Monmouth Hawks are set to face off against the Youngstown State Penguins in a college basketball matchup scheduled for Thursday at the William R. Johnson Coliseum. Both teams are eager to improve their early season records amid challenging starts.

Currently, the Monmouth Hawks hold a 0-5 record following losses to teams such as Rutgers and Wichita State. They are averaging 68.8 points per game on 36.1 percent shooting. Leading the Hawks’ charge is Adbi Bashir Jr., who is posting an impressive average of 21.6 points and 2.2 rebounds per game. Meanwhile, Madison Durr contributes an additional 13.6 points and 3.6 rebounds per outing. The team struggles defensively, allowing 86.2 points on 50.9 percent shooting.

The Youngstown State Penguins have recorded a 1-2 standing with their most recent game resulting in a substantial 104-95 overtime loss to Syracuse. Despite this setback, Youngstown showcased skill with Nico Galette scoring 21 points and securing seven rebounds. EJ Farmer emerged as another key player with 26 points to his name. On average, the Penguins are putting up 74 points per game but allowing 82 to their opponents.

Oddsmakers favor Monmouth by five points in this encounter, largely due to their status as home favorites despite a struggling start. However, Youngstown State’s recent performance against Syracuse, albeit a loss, demonstrated potential as they challenged the Orange until the final minutes.

Both teams will have ample opportunity to refine their strategies, with Monmouth eager to turn things around and Youngstown State seeking to build on their near success against Syracuse. With Monmouth still searching for their first win, the Hawks hope a home game provides the necessary advantage to secure a victory.