PRINCESS ANNE, Maryland — The University of Maryland Eastern Shore men's basketball team prepares for its final home contest of the 2022-23 season on Monday evening (February 27) against Morgan State. Tip is slated for 7:30 p.m. from the Hytche.
The Hawks (16-11, 8-4 MEAC) will recognize the program's eight seniors and graduate students for Senior Night prior to the game, including Ahamadou Fofana, Tuka Nugent, Zion Styles, Kevon Voyles, Da'Shawn Phillip, Kohen Thompson, Jojo Anderson and Nathaniel Pollard Jr.
"We're excited to celebrate our amazing group of seniors," Hawks coach Jason Crafton said. "They have done an amazing job of spearheading a new era of Hawk basketball. We are forever grateful for their efforts, this will be a special night."
The Bears (14-14, 6-6 MEAC) enter after claiming a win over Delaware State in their last matchup on Saturday, 83-78.
Checking on the Hawks
It was a strong showing for UMES in their last contest, knocking off Coppin State by a 78-57 final at the Physical Education Complex in Baltimore on Saturday (February 25).
The Hawks erased an early deficit, outscoring the Eagles 30-6 in the final eight minutes of the first half to reverse the momentum of the game completely. UMES kept the Eagles at bay throughout the second half, in large part due to strong performances from the reserves.
Tuka Nugent poured in a game-high 21 points off the Hawk bench, while Troy Hupstead scored 11 points and grabbed five rebounds as a substitute. In terms of starters, Zion Styles led the way with 15 points while grabbing six boards and Chace Davis scored 13 while recording a team and career-high seven rebounds.
The Hawk defense held Coppin to a 35.8 percent shooting clip, grabbed 11 steals and forced 16 turnovers in the win.
Scouting the Bears
Morgan State boasts back-to-back victories entering Monday's matchup. Before their Saturday win over the Hornets, they knocked off Howard 89-76 on February 20.
The Bears boast the second-ranked scoring offense in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference, scoring 75.9 points per game. Defensively, the squad ranks fourth allowing 72.3 points a night.
Morgan holds the best three-point percentage in the conference, hitting 37.5 percent of their looks from deep. They also carry the best three-point defense in the league, allowing just a 30.5 percent clip to their opponents.
The team's senior ceremony will begin 30 minutes after the women's game concludes. Tickets can be purchased at the door or online at www.easternshorehawks.com.
