Monmouth basketball vs. Stony Brook: 3 keys for Hawks, without head coach in CAA opener

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WEST LONG BRANCH – The Monmouth team that takes the court at OceanFirst Bank Center for tonight’s CAA opener is battle-tested, having survived a non-conference schedule that included four games against high-major opponents, and three others against top mid-majors.

And while the Hawks took their lumps, going 2-11, it’s time for the payoff. At least that’s the plan.

The experience gained against some of the top teams in the country, including an 87-58 loss at No. 2 Auburn last time out, should make the Hawks a dangerous team in the CAA.

The first test of that theory comes tonight when Monmouth hosts Stony Brook (4-9) in the CAA opener, with tipoff at 7 p.m. (FloSports) at OceanFirst Bank Center.

The task became that much more difficult Wednesday when the CAA suspended head coach King Rice for the game for post-game comments about a game official after Monmouth lost to Charleston at last year’s CAA Tournament.

Monmouth’s Cornelius Robinson III shoots against Stony Brook on Feb. 17, 2024 at OceanFirst Bank Center in West Long Branch, N.J.

Rice will be replaced by assistant coach Clive Bentick against Stony Brook.

Here are three keys for Monmouth against Stony Brook. And check back later Thursday night for complete coverage of the CAA opener:

1. Start fast

Monmouth got out of the gate quickly against Fairfield in the home opener, building a 20-point lead with 8:41 left in the first half. And while the Stags got as close as seven points in the second half, the Hawks were in control throughout.

If Monmouth can up the tempo and crack 80 points for the second straight game they have a good chance.

And getting off to a fast start in CAA play is critical. The Hawks now travel to Delaware Saturday looking to build momentum heading into a two-game homestand against two of the league’s top teams. UNCW comes to the Jersey Shore next Thursday, with Charleston, the two-time defending champions, in town two days later, providing an opportunity for the Hawks to send an early message..

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Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/monmouth-basketball-vs-stony-brook-112739687.html

Author : App.com | Asbury Park Press

Publish date : 2025-01-02 11:27:00

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