Eastern Kentucky University’s men’s basketball team is gearing up for an exciting matchup against Prairie View A&M as they wrap up the EKU Classic on Tuesday at noon. The game holds special significance as it coincides with Education Day, bringing an estimated 3,000 local elementary students to cheer on the Colonels.
The game will be broadcast live on ESPN+, and those in the Richmond area can tune in to WCYO 100.7 FM for the live radio broadcast. Tickets are available for purchase online at EKUSports.com or by calling 859-622-2122.
The Colonels’ Performance:
The Colonels (2-1) experienced their first setback of the season in the previous game, falling to Tennessee-Martin 80-74. Leland Walker led all players with 21 points and contributed five rebounds. EKU faced shooting challenges against the Skyhawks, managing just 37 percent from the field and 28 percent from beyond the 3-point line.
Michael Moreno, with three 3-pointers in the last game, moved into second place on the program’s all-time 3-pointers list, boasting 273 career threes. He’s just 10 three-pointers behind record holder Matt Witt (283). UT Martin showcased efficiency, shooting 46 percent from the field and making 11-of-26 from 3-point range.
Scouting the Opponent:
Prairie View A&M (3-2) comes into the matchup with a 78-66 victory over Tennessee-Martin in their first EKU Classic game. Charles Smith IV, a 6-foot-5 guard, leads the team in scoring at 16.4 points per game, along with 5.4 rebounds. Brian Myles, a 6-foot-7 forward, contributes 9.6 points and leads the team with 8.0 rebounds per game.
In the win over UT Martin, Myles had an impressive 18 points and 14 rebounds, while Smith recorded 18 points, eight rebounds, and four assists. Point guard Andre Nunley added 10 points, 10 rebounds, six steals, and four assists. Prairie View A&M averages 74.2 points per game, shooting 40 percent from the field and holding opponents to 30 percent from beyond the arc.
Inside the Series:
The only meeting between the two teams occurred on Nov. 20 at the MGM Grand Main Event in Las Vegas, where the Colonels emerged victorious with an 80-70 win. Nick Mayo played a pivotal role, scoring 25 points, grabbing six rebounds, and contributing three assists. EKU shot an impressive 50 percent from the field and went 30-for-36 at the free-throw line (83 percent).
As the Colonels face Prairie View A&M once again, fans can anticipate an intense and spirited matchup. The Education Day atmosphere, combined with the team’s determination, is sure to make this game a memorable experience for players and fans alike.
