Samford (stud) vs Chattanooga (stud) on 24 January
The NCAA tournament promises another electrifying clash on January 24 as Samford University faces off against Chattanooga in what is set to be a pivotal match for both teams. This showdown, filled with high stakes, will take place on the court, where the drive for success, momentum, and playoff aspirations are on the line. Both teams have been building momentum, but the outcome of this game will determine whether they can take that final step toward securing a spot in the next phase of the tournament. The intensity will be palpable, with the pressure mounting for both squads to deliver when it matters the most.
Samford (stud): Tactical Approach and Current Form
Samford enters this contest riding a wave of strong performances. With four wins in their last five outings, the Bulldogs have showcased their ability to execute both in transition and in half-court offense. Head coach Bucky McMillan has developed a system that emphasizes fluid ball movement, spacing, and constant off-the-ball movement to create open looks. Their offensive strategy is built around fast breaks and quick ball rotation, relying heavily on the three-point shot. Samford’s field goal percentage sits at a respectable 46%, but their three-point shooting has been their primary weapon, hitting 38% from beyond the arc this season.
The Bulldogs' defensive setup is aggressive, focusing on creating turnovers and turning those into easy transition points. Their defense often begins with full-court pressure and tight man-to-man coverage that stifles opposing offenses in the early stages of possessions. However, their biggest weakness has been in securing defensive rebounds—an area that could be exploited by a team like Chattanooga, which excels in that department.
Key Player: Senior guard Logan Dye has been the heartbeat of Samford’s offense, averaging 15.4 points per game and providing steady playmaking with 4.3 assists. His ability to score both in the paint and from the perimeter will be crucial in breaking down Chattanooga’s defense. However, the key factor for Samford will be the availability of center Jalen Dupree, whose defensive presence and rebounding abilities have been vital in recent games. Dupree’s performance will likely determine how well Samford can control the boards, particularly against Chattanooga’s strong inside presence.
Chattanooga (stud): Tactical Approach and Current Form
Chattanooga comes into this game with a strong 4-1 record in their last five matchups, and their defensive prowess has been their key to success. Head coach Dan Earl has built a well-organized, methodical offense that looks to control the pace of the game. Chattanooga thrives in a half-court offense, where they utilize precise passing and intelligent movement off the ball to create high-quality shot opportunities. Their field goal percentage stands at 47%, but their greatest strength has been their consistency in rebounding. The Mocs are particularly effective on the offensive glass, collecting an average of 12 offensive rebounds per game, which allows them to maintain possession and generate second-chance opportunities. This factor could be critical against a Samford team that struggles in this area.
On defense, Chattanooga plays with discipline, focusing on preventing easy drives to the basket while contesting shots on the perimeter. They often collapse the paint, making it difficult for teams to penetrate, and their ability to control the boards has been a big part of their defensive strategy. While they don’t typically press full-court, their half-court defense is tough, forcing opponents into inefficient shots.
Key Player: Senior forward Silas Adheke has been a key cog in Chattanooga’s system, averaging a double-double of 12 points and 10 rebounds per game. His ability to dominate the paint on both ends of the floor is what sets him apart, and his match-up with Dupree in the post will likely decide which team controls the rebounding battle. Additionally, guard Jake Stephens will play an instrumental role in creating offensive flow. With his 5.6 assists per game, Stephens’ ability to facilitate and control tempo will be crucial in breaking down Samford’s defense.
Head-to-Head: History and Psychology
When reviewing the past encounters between these two teams, it’s clear that both squads have traded blows over the years. In their last three meetings, Chattanooga has had the upper hand, winning two of the three, though the matchups were tightly contested. Historically, Samford has struggled to find consistent offense against Chattanooga’s stifling defense. In fact, Samford’s inability to execute against well-organized teams with strong post defenses has often been their downfall. For Chattanooga, the psychological edge lies in their ability to shut down high-scoring guards, and their defensive system has proven to be a hurdle for Samford’s offensive flow.
That said, the game on January 24 will be a different beast altogether. Samford enters this matchup with renewed confidence, buoyed by their offensive firepower and the playmaking abilities of Dye. Chattanooga, however, will not make it easy, and their battle-tested defense is likely to present challenges for Samford’s shooters. In terms of psychology, both teams will be aware that this is a game that could determine their future in the tournament, and as such, nerves will certainly be a factor.
Key Battles and Critical Zones
The first key battle will undoubtedly be the post duel between Samford’s Jalen Dupree and Chattanooga’s Silas Adheke. Both players are pivotal to their team’s success on the boards, and whichever side dominates in this area will likely have the upper hand. Samford’s struggles with rebounding could give Chattanooga an edge, especially in second-chance points.
The second crucial battle is between the backcourt players, particularly Samford’s Logan Dye and Chattanooga’s Jake Stephens. Dye’s ability to create space and score from beyond the arc will be tested by Chattanooga’s perimeter defense, led by Stephens. Stephens, known for his disruptive defense and playmaking, will have to lock down Dye while also ensuring his own offensive contribution. The efficiency with which these two players can execute will be pivotal to their team’s success.
The final area to watch will be the transition game. Samford will look to push the pace, using quick ball movement and fast breaks to get easy baskets. Chattanooga will want to slow the tempo and control the game in the half-court. The pace at which the game is played will go a long way in determining the outcome.
Match Scenario and Prediction
Expect this game to be a fast-paced, high-intensity affair with a lot of back-and-forth action. Samford will look to establish their offensive flow early, particularly through their shooting from beyond the arc and in transition. If they can hit early three-pointers and force turnovers, they may be able to break Chattanooga’s defensive rhythm. However, if Chattanooga can control the pace, dominate the boards, and slow Samford’s offense, they will likely come away with the win.
Looking at the statistics, the most likely scenario is a relatively high-scoring game, with Samford attempting to take advantage of the three-point line and fast breaks, while Chattanooga works hard to impose their half-court game and control the glass. The key stats will be offensive rebounds, turnovers, and shooting efficiency—both teams are strong defensively, but the team that controls these aspects will have the advantage.
Prediction: Chattanooga 78, Samford 74. The Mocs' size and rebounding strength should ultimately prove decisive in a close game. However, expect Samford to make a fight of it, especially if their shooters get hot from beyond the arc.
Final Thoughts
This match will answer one key question: Can Samford’s offensive firepower overcome Chattanooga’s defensive fortitude? With both teams motivated and primed for a battle, every possession will matter. The team that can execute their game plan with precision, control the tempo, and dominate the boards will come out on top. Expect a thrilling encounter with high stakes and even higher intensity.
