Pirates Seek First BIG EAST Win Against Georgetown

Published: Sunday, December 22, 2024

by Nick Powell

On Sunday evening, the Seton Hall Pirates (5-7) aim to end their three-game losing streak against their BIG EAST rival, the Georgetown Hoyas (9-2). A victory would give the Pirates their first conference win of the young season.

As Seton Hall enters BIG EAST play, sophomore guard Isaiah Coleman is finding his stride after missing the start of the season due to injury. Coleman has caught fire, averaging over 18 points per game in his last three outings. The North Carolina native scored a season-high 22 points in the Pirates’ conference opener against Villanova, proving he is emerging as one of the Pirates’ most potent offensive threats.

Coleman’s scoring has been key to Seton Hall’s recent success, and the Pirates will need his offensive production to continue as they face a Georgetown team off to an impressive 9-2 start this season. Seton Hall (5-7) looks to build momentum in its first home conference game, with Coleman’s dynamic play serving as a central factor in the quest for victory.

The Pirates won’t have an easy time against a Georgetown squad playing excellent basketball. Leading the Hoyas is Jayden Epps, who’s averaging more than 16 points per game this season and has been a consistent presence on the court. His ability to score from anywhere on the floor will be something the Pirates must contend with.

Georgetown’s defense has been one of its strengths this season. The Hoyas allow an average of just 65 points per game and have been disruptive on the defensive end, tallying numerous steals and blocks as a team. With such a strong defensive unit, Seton Hall will need to be precise with its shot selection and disciplined in offensive execution to break through Georgetown's stifling defense.

What makes Georgetown even more dangerous is its confidence. After a difficult 2023-24 season, in which they won just nine games, the Hoyas have already matched that total this season, posting nine victories before the new year. This early success has fueled their optimism as they aim to make some noise in the BIG EAST.

While the Pirates are capable of securing a victory, they must match Georgetown’s defensive intensity and contain Epps’ scoring. The matchup promises to be a hard-fought battle, with both teams playing with urgency and purpose.

With both teams looking to solidify their place in the BIG EAST standings, fans can expect an exciting and competitive contest between two hungry squads. Sunday’s showdown at Prudential Center is set to tip off at 7 p.m. Michael Bellifemini and Brian Henderson will have the call and pregame coverage will start at 6:30 p.m., with analysis from Michael Federico and Lauren Reese.

Nick Powell can be reached at nickolas.powell@student.shu.edu. 

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