TEMPLE/FGCU PREVIEW

Fort Myers, FL- FGCU (1-0) gets a huge test in non-conference play, as they host Temple University (1-0) Friday night at 6 PM.

Stats (TU):

The Owls average 73 ppg, and allow 53 ppg. Temple shoots 49.1% (28/57) from the field, 30% (3/10) from beyond the arc, and average 29 team rebounds per game. TU averages 11 assists, 11 steals, and 1 block per game. The Owls averages 14 team turnovers per game, while forcing 28 team turnovers.

Players To Watch For (TU):

5’9 GR G Jiselle Thomas 20.0 ppg, 4.0 rpg

-Grad transfer that previously played at FIU last two seasons (16.9 ppg, ’20-21)

-Recorded a triple double last season vs Middle Tennessee State University (9th player in C-USA history)

-All Conference USA last season with FIU

6’0 GR F Mia Davis 18.0 ppg, 4.0 rpg

-2022 Cheryl Miller Award Watch List

-2021-22 American Athletic Conference Preseason Player of the Year

-2022 First Team All-American Athletic Conference

-2021 USBWA All-American Honorable Mention

-2021 First Team All-American Athletic Conference

-Mia averaged 17.7 ppg last season to lead the Owls in scoring

6’1 JR F Alexa Williamson 8.0 ppg, 3.0 rpg

-Averaged 12.5 ppg, 6.7 rpg last season for the Owls

Players To Watch For (FGCU):

6’1 JR G Kierstan Bell 22.0 ppg, 9.0 rpg

5’3 SR G TK Morehouse 15.0 ppg

5’7 GR G Karli Seay 12.0 ppg, 3.0 rpg

Overview:

The Eagles fresh off a dominant season opening win vs FMU, face an Owls team that features one of the best players in the country in Mia Davis. The Davis/Bell matchup both offensively and defensively, is a treat for all to enjoy Friday. Mia Davis has been the face of the Temple University program these past four seasons. The Owls also added added Jiselle Thomas, a super talented 5’9 guard who spent her last two years with FIU.

FGCU looks to have the depth roster wise to give every team in the country, a run for their money. This gives Coach Smesko the chance to let Kierstan and TK have more breaks knowing the players coming in can sufficiently run the offense. Kaela Webb, Karli Seay, Kendall Spray, and Milan Schimmel, all had moments in their first game of the season together. The X’s and O’s will be everything, especially in a game that could be closer than usual.

Prediction:

FGCU 76 TU 71