SIU-Edwardsville Cougars take on the Alabama State Hornets
Two 3-3 squads collide on a neutral floor as SIU-Edwardsville faces Alabama State at Clune Arena in Colorado Springs. Tip-off is set for Sunday at 1 p.m. EST, with both programs looking to tilt their non-conference records into the black before league play heats up.
Why this matchup matters
Each side has shown flashes through the opening stretch, but consistency has been elusive. A win here would provide a timely boost against a like-for-like opponent and offer a clearer read on how each team stacks up away from home.
Matchup snapshot
- SIU-Edwardsville is averaging 74.0 points per game and owns a +6.7 scoring margin, signaling respectable two-way balance.
- Alabama State has allowed 80.5 points per game, a number the Cougars will aim to exploit; SIU-Edwardsville’s 74.0 average is 6.5 points below that allowance.
- The Hornets are sinking 8.3 threes per outing—right in line with the 8.3 triples the Cougars typically give up.
- Close-game check: Alabama State has split its one-possession contests so far (1-1), suggesting they’re battle-tested late.
Players to watch
- SIU-Edwardsville: Ring Malith has been an efficient engine for the Cougars, shooting 52.1% from the field while averaging 15.7 points. His shot selection and touch around the rim set the tone offensively.
- SIU-Edwardsville: Darius Robinson Jr. adds depth to the rotation, contributing 5.5 points per game and offering steady minutes in support roles.
- Alabama State: Micah Simpsom stretches defenses with 2.7 made threes per game and a 40.0% clip from beyond the arc, fueling a team-best 17.0 points per night.
- Alabama State: Asjon Anderson pairs scoring with playmaking, averaging 17.0 points and 4.7 assists, and serves as a key initiator in the half court.
Keys to the game
- Perimeter defense: With the Hornets living at the arc, SIU-Edwardsville must chase shooters off the line and contest clean looks to blunt Alabama State’s 3-point volume.
- Tempo control: The Cougars’ positive scoring margin suggests they thrive when the pace doesn’t get away from them. Limiting transition chances and valuing possessions could pay off.
- Shot quality: Alabama State’s defensive numbers leave room to attack. Efficient touches for Malith and inside-out action can generate high-percentage attempts for the Cougars.
- Clutch execution: Alabama State has experience in tight finishes; late-game composure, rebounding, and free throws may decide it.
What to watch for
Expect an early feeling-out period as both teams test matchups and spacing on a neutral court. If Alabama State finds rhythm from deep, SIU-Edwardsville will need to counter by winning the paint and limiting second-chance looks. Conversely, if the Cougars impose their pace and get downhill touches, the Hornets’ defense could be in for a long afternoon.
Bottom line
Two evenly matched teams with contrasting paths to points meet in Colorado Springs. The Cougars bring balanced scoring and efficiency; the Hornets counter with perimeter firepower and guards who can take over late. Whichever side defends the arc better—and controls the tempo—should walk away with a valuable non-conference win.
