Pirates Host Oklahoma State in Crucial Non-Con Clash

Published: Sunday, December 8, 2024

by Michael Federico

The Seton Hall Pirates (5-4) look to win their second straight game as they take on the Oklahoma State Cowboys (5-2) in the annual BIG EAST–Big 12 Battle on Sunday afternoon at the Prudential Center.

Last time out against NJIT, the Pirates secured their fifth win of the season. With their non-conference schedule nearing its end and BIG EAST play on the horizon, the standout storyline was Seton Hall's defense. The Pirates held NJIT under 60 points, marking the fifth time this season they've limited an opponent to fewer than 60.

Another key storyline was the breakout performance of Boston College transfer Prince Aligbe, who erupted for a career-high 19 points and eight rebounds. Providence transfer Garway Dual also shone, earning the start while Dylan Addae-Wusu came off the bench as he recovered from an illness. Dual contributed 11 points on an efficient 5-of-7 shooting from the field.

Last season, the Pirates traveled to Texas to face the Baylor Bears in the BIG EAST–Big 12 Battle, falling 60-78. This marks Seton Hall's first home game in the series since their 64-60 victory over Texas on Dec. 9, 2021, which remains the Pirates' only win in the BIG EAST–Big 12 Battle series.

This matchup marks the second all-time meeting between the Pirates and the Cowboys. Their previous encounter was in the Sweet 16 of the 2000 NCAA Tournament at the Carrier Dome in Syracuse. Coach Shaheen Holloway was Seton Hall’s starting point guard at the time but was sidelined due to a broken ankle sustained earlier in the tournament.

Oklahoma State boasts a high-scoring offense, averaging 80.9 points per game and shooting an impressive 43.7% from the field. Senior Bryce Thompson leads the Cowboys, contributing 12.6 points per game while shooting 41.4% from the field.

The Pirates' defense remains the cornerstone of their identity, ranking second in the nation by allowing just 56.6 points per game. However, Chaunce Jenkins will be the key for Seton Hall. The Old Dominion transfer has scored in double figures in six of the team's nine games this season, and when Jenkins leads the scoring, the Pirates boast a 4-1 record.

Pregame coverage on 89.5 FM WSOU kicks off at 11:45 a.m., with Lauren Reese and Jack Pine breaking down the matchup. Tip-off is set for noon, with Joe Morales and Michael Bellifemini on the call at the Prudential Center.

Michael Federico is the Technical Operations Director at WSOU 89.5 FM and can be reached at michael.federico@student.shu.edu. 

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