Iona Gaels Face Manhattan Jaspers in MAAC Tournament Showdown

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. — The Iona Gaels (15-16, 12-8 MAAC) are set to square off against the Manhattan Jaspers (17-12, 12-8 MAAC) in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) tournament on Thursday at 6 p.m. EDT at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall. With both teams holding identical records in conference play, the matchup promises to be crucial as they vie for an automatic berth in the NCAA Tournament.

Iona, seeded fourth in the tournament, comes into the contest with a 7-3 record in its last ten games, averaging 74.9 points per game while allowing 69.5 points. The Gaels have been shooting 45.6% from the field during that span. In contrast, fifth-seeded Manhattan has matched that performance with a 7-3 record, averaging 77.6 points and allowing 72.0 points per game while shooting 44.6%. Both teams aim to leverage their recent successes as they prepare for a high-stakes game.

The last time these two teams met was on February 22, where Iona emerged victorious with a narrow 65-60 win. This encounter sets the stage for another competitive clash, with both squads familiar with each other’s playing styles. Iona’s forward, Taaj Eaddy, who led the team with 18 points in the previous matchup, is expected to be a key player once again. For Manhattan, Darius Hines also registered 18 points in that game and will look to replicate his scoring prowess.

Statistically, Iona’s defense has been somewhat lenient this season, allowing an average of 70.8 points per game, which raises questions about their ability to contain Manhattan’s aggressive offense that averages 8.8 made three-pointers each game. Manhattan’s defense has proven to be resilient, permitting just 43.5% shooting from opponents. Iona will need to improve on their 41.9% shooting from the field if they hope to advance past this round of the tournament.

“Every matchup is a new opportunity,” said Iona head coach Rick Pitino. “We’ve learned a lot from our previous games against Manhattan, and our players are ready to put forth their best effort.” The importance of this game is not lost on both coaches and players, as the implications extend beyond just a win; the victor secures a chance to compete on a larger stage.

Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how both teams adjust strategies, especially considering their recent performances. Iona’s Reaves is a standout player, averaging 16.6 points and 5.4 rebounds per game during the season. He will be looking to increase his contributions, especially in critical moments. For Manhattan, Luke Jungers has been a significant player in the three-point shooting department, averaging 2.4 made shots beyond the arc over the last ten games.

The anticipation builds as tip-off approaches. The outcome of this game could very well determine the trajectory of the rest of both teams’ seasons. Iona and Manhattan both enter the tournament with confidence and determination, setting the stage for an exciting evening of college basketball.