Youngstown State Faces Monmouth in the Axe 'Em Classic

The Youngstown State Penguins will continue their road trip with a game against the Monmouth Hawks on Thursday, November 21, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. ET. This matchup marks an exciting opportunity for both teams, particularly as it will be their first meeting in history.

Game Details

• When: Thursday, November 21, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. ET
• Where: William R. Johnson Coliseum, Nacogdoches, Texas
• Streaming: N/A (No TV or streaming broadcast available)
• Radio: Monmouth Digital Network, Play-by-Play by Matt Harmon

Current Records

• Youngstown State: 1-2
• Monmouth: 0-5

A Look at Youngstown State

The Penguins have had a mixed start to the season, currently holding a record of 1-2. Their performance has shown promise, especially in their recent game against Syracuse, where they pushed the game into overtime before ultimately losing 104-95. Players like EJ Farmer and Nico Galette have been instrumental in their offensive efforts, with Farmer scoring 26 points and Galette contributing 21 points, seven rebounds, and two steals.

Despite the loss, Youngstown State's offense appears to be finding its rhythm, but an area that likely requires more attention is their defensive strategies, especially with the high point totals they've allowed opponents to accumulate.

Key Players to Watch

• EJ Farmer: Averaging 26 points per game; needs to continue his strong offensive contributions.
• Nico Galette: Coming off a solid performance, will be crucial in maintaining momentum in scoring and rebounding.
• Malia Magestro: A standout player who is crucial for establishing offensive plays and enhancing team dynamics.

A Look at Monmouth

The Monmouth Hawks are struggling this season with an 0-5 record. Their latest defeat came at the hands of Wichita State, where they lost 70-66. Monmouth is looking for their first win of the season and their roster boasts talent under pressure. Cornelius Robinson Jr. has been a notable player, scoring 12 points against Wichita State and showcasing his potential to rise under competitive circumstances.

Key Players to Watch

• Cornelius Robinson Jr.: Emerging as a reliable scorer with a strong field-goal percentage.
• Abdi Bashir Jr.: Recognized as the Oscar Robertson National Player of the Week, he is a critical player to keep an eye on, especially following his standout performance at Rutgers.

What’s at Stake

For Youngstown State, a victory over Monmouth could bolster their record and provide further motivation as they continue their road stretch. On the flip side, Monmouth is desperate for a win, eager to break their losing streak. A victory not only holds significance for their morale but is also pivotal for first-year players looking to integrate and succeed in their new roles.

Historical Context

This game holds great significance as it is the first-ever matchup between Youngstown State and Monmouth. With both programs looking to establish themselves successfully in this early stage of the season, this could serve as a critical benchmark for both teams moving forward.

Conclusion

As both teams prepare for this pivotal game in the Axe 'Em Classic, fans should anticipate a competitive matchup. Will Youngstown State build on their recent offensive momentum, or can Monmouth secure their first season win? Tune in for what promises to be an exciting contest!