Seattle Redhawks (stud) vs Loyola Marymount (stud) on 22 January
On January 22, 2026, the NCAA basketball clash between Seattle Redhawks and Loyola Marymount promises to be a thrilling encounter. The Redhawks, fresh off an impressive run in the season, face Loyola Marymount, a team with an equally formidable record. This game could be pivotal in shaping their respective tournament fates, and both sides will be determined to claim victory. The matchup, set to take place at the Redhawks’ home court, will not only be a test of skills but also of psychological strength, with both teams needing this win for playoff positioning.
Seattle Redhawks (stud): Tactical Approach and Current Form
Seattle Redhawks enter this matchup having shown excellent form in their last five games. They have a solid 4-1 record, with their only loss coming against a highly ranked opponent. Their tactical setup revolves around a fast-paced offense, with an emphasis on transition play and high scoring in the fast break. The Redhawks thrive in up-tempo basketball, pushing the ball off turnovers and looking for quick shots before the defense can settle. In terms of half-court offense, they rely on sharp perimeter shooting and off-ball movement to create open looks for their guards.
Their shooting efficiency has been impressive, ranking 2nd in the conference for field goal percentage at 47.5%, and their three-point shooting sits at a solid 36%. Key to their success is the performance of senior point guard Ryan Mitchell, who averages 8.3 assists per game, creating opportunities for his teammates and dictating the pace. Mitchell's leadership has been crucial in keeping the offense fluid. However, the team has struggled with turnovers, averaging 15.2 per game, and this could be an area where Loyola Marymount might exploit them.
Seattle's big man, Jordan Matthews, has been dominant in the paint, averaging 10 rebounds per game. Matthews’ presence under the boards has provided the Redhawks with crucial second-chance opportunities. However, his injury concern ahead of this game could change their dynamic if he's not at full strength. Without Matthews, the Redhawks may lack the same rebounding authority and interior defense.
Loyola Marymount (stud): Tactical Approach and Current Form
Loyola Marymount enters this game on a strong run of 4-1 in their last five matches. Their recent form has been underpinned by their exceptional defense, ranking 3rd in the conference for points allowed per game (65.4). They play a much more deliberate style, focusing on controlling the tempo and slowing the game down to exploit their opponents’ weaknesses. Loyola excels in half-court sets, using precise ball movement to find open looks for their shooters.
Their three-point shooting percentage (39.2%) ranks them 1st in the league, with shooting guard Alex Price leading the charge with 15.8 points per game. Price has been on fire, hitting 45% of his three-point attempts over the last 5 games, and will be a key factor in their offensive strategy. Loyola has also been effective at limiting turnovers, averaging just 11.3 per game, which allows them to maintain better possession control and manage the pace of the game.
Defensively, Loyola Marymount's physicality in the paint is what sets them apart. Center Caleb Johnson has averaged 2.4 blocks per game, providing a significant deterrent for any penetration into the lane. The team’s rebounding, led by Johnson and power forward Ethan Cole, is one of their strongest suits. However, their weak spot remains in fast-break defense, where they rank 10th in the conference, allowing opponents to score easy points in transition.
Head-to-Head: History and Psychology
The last three encounters between Seattle Redhawks and Loyola Marymount have been tight affairs, with Seattle winning two of the last three games. The most recent matchup was a high-scoring affair that saw Seattle edge out Loyola by a narrow 82-78 scoreline. What’s evident from these past meetings is the contrasting styles of play – Seattle's fast-break offense versus Loyola's patient, methodical half-court approach. The psychological edge might go to Seattle due to their recent dominance, but Loyola’s disciplined style could be the perfect counter to Seattle’s tempo.
Key Battles and Critical Zones
The two critical matchups in this game will be the battle between Ryan Mitchell and Loyola's defense, and the physical confrontation in the paint between Matthews and Caleb Johnson. Mitchell's ability to distribute the ball will be crucial, as Loyola will look to disrupt his rhythm with tight defense on the perimeter. If Mitchell can remain effective in running the offense, it will open up opportunities for Seattle’s shooters.
Meanwhile, Matthews' presence in the paint will be crucial. If he is healthy, he could overpower Johnson in the low post and secure crucial rebounds. Johnson’s ability to alter shots and block attempts will be vital for Loyola to limit Seattle’s interior play. This duel could determine which team controls the tempo and dictates the flow of the game.
Match Scenario and Prediction
This game will likely come down to which team can impose its style of play. If Seattle can push the pace and force turnovers, they will have the advantage, as Loyola’s transition defense has been their weakest point. However, if Loyola can slow the game down and capitalize on their shooting efficiency, especially from beyond the arc, they will find success in the half-court offense. With Matthews' injury concerns and Loyola’s stellar defensive play, the prediction is a close, low-scoring contest that Loyola Marymount will edge out by a few points.
Prediction: Loyola Marymount to win by 3-5 points. The total points will likely stay under 150, with Seattle struggling to control the pace in the absence of Matthews.
Final Thoughts
The outcome of this matchup will likely hinge on Seattle's ability to impose their fast tempo and exploit Loyola’s defensive weaknesses. With Matthews potentially sidelined, the Redhawks will need to find an alternative way to dominate the boards and finish in transition. For Loyola, limiting turnovers and controlling the tempo with effective shooting will be key to securing the win. The big question remains: Can Seattle control the pace without Matthews, or will Loyola’s defense and sharp shooting take the day?
