Marshall Aims to Extend Win Streak Against Struggling Georgia State

HUNTINGTON, W.Va. — The Marshall Thundering Herd (13-9, 6-3 Sun Belt) will host the Georgia State Panthers (7-14, 3-6 Sun Belt) at 7 p.m. ET Thursday at the Cam Henderson Center. The game will be broadcast on ESPN+.

Marshall enters the matchup riding a wave of momentum, having won five of its last six games, including a 92-79 victory over Georgia State last Thursday in Atlanta. The Thundering Herd are coming off a 71-67 win against Georgia Southern on Saturday, while the Panthers suffered an 86-79 loss to James Madison the same day, marking their fourth consecutive defeat.

Marshall’s offense has been a key factor in its recent success, averaging 75.6 points per game this season. The team is led by graduate guard Jalen Speer, who tops the Sun Belt in three-point field goal percentage (.533) and three-pointers made (32). Senior forward Obinna Anochili-Killen, the conference’s leading shot-blocker with 36 rejections, and senior guard Mikal Dawson, who averages 13.9 points per game, have also been instrumental in the Herd’s strong performance.

Georgia State, meanwhile, has struggled to find consistency. The Panthers are led by senior forward Nick McMullen, who ranks second in the Sun Belt with 10 rebounds per game and is one of four players averaging double-digit scoring. McMullen is joined by senior center Cesare Edwards (14.9 points per game), senior guard Toneari Lane (14.8), and senior forward Zarique Nutter (14.4).

Rebounding could play a pivotal role in Thursday’s game. Marshall averages 37.3 rebounds per game, while Georgia State ranks fourth in the Sun Belt with 38.7 rebounds per contest. The Panthers’ ability to control the boards will be critical as they look to snap their losing streak.

Marshall is favored by 12.5 points, according to the latest odds. The Thundering Herd have covered the spread in their last six games, making them a popular pick among bettors. The over/under for the game is set at 152.5 points.

After Thursday’s game, Marshall will remain at home to face Coastal Carolina on Saturday and Arkansas State next Wednesday. The Arkansas State matchup has been elevated to a national telecast on ESPNU.

“It’s important for the fans to show up and support these guys,” said first-year Marshall head coach Cornelius Jackson. “They’re working really hard and laying it on the line to represent Marshall in a first-class manner on and off the court.”