Can Monmouth build on Rutgers effort?: 3 keys vs Wichita State, as Hawks seek first win

Monmouth did what it had to do at Jersey Mike’s Arena Friday night against nationally-ranked Rutgers, pushing the Scarlet Knights – they were down 11 points with just over five minutes to play – in a competitive 98-81 loss.

So there’s that.

But as energizing as that performance was against the No. 24 team in the country, the reality is that Monmouth, at 0-4, exits the weekend as one of 17 teams yet to taste victory.

And things don’t get much easier Monday night against unbeaten Wichita State (3-0) at Koch Arena in Wichita, Kansas. Tipoff is at 6:30 p.m., with the game streamed on ESPN+, while the Monmouth audio available at Monmouth Digital Network.

Wichita State comes off a 79-73 win over Northern Iowa, having previously beaten Western Kentucky and Montana State, both in the NCAA Tournament last season.

A win would rank among the program’s best ever, while another moral victory wouldn’t be the worst thing. It’s a prelude to a stretch of three winnable games in as many days against Youngstown State, Stephen F. Austin and Presbyterian at the Axe ‘Em Classic in Nacogdoches, Texas, beginning Thursday.

Nov 15, 2024; Piscataway, New Jersey, USA; Monmouth Hawks guard Abdi Bashir Jr. (1) shoots the ball as Rutgers Scarlet Knights guard Ace Bailey (4) defends during the first half at Jersey Mike’s Arena. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

This is one of five guaranteed money games on the non-conference schedule that Monmouth head coach King Rice indicated will bring in $435,000. Wichita State reportedly paid Montana State $85,000 to play last week’s game.

More: Rutgers basketball: Ace Bailey debuts with a bang in win over Monmouth

Here are three keys for Monmouth against Wichita State. Check back here later Monday night for complete coverage of Monmouth’s game against Wichita State:

1. Shock the Shockers?

The performance at Rutgers means nothing if Monmouth’s unable to take another step forward against the Shockers, in another difficult road environment. The…

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Author : App.com | Asbury Park Press

Publish date : 2024-11-18 10:09:00

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