Pirates Look to Avoid Letdown Against Upset-Minded CCSU in Final Walsh Contest of the Season

Published: Wednesday, December 3, 2025

by David Martino

SOUTH ORANGE, N.J. - The Seton Hall Pirates (7-1) are set to take on the Central Connecticut State Blue Devils (5-2), as they try to build off the success they enjoyed on their Hawaii trip. The Pirates dominated in their two victories in Hawaii against NC State and Washington State, while coming just short of USC in their second round matchup, due to several controversial calls.

The key players to watch in this contest would be AJ Staton-McCray, who averaged 19.7 points per game across three contests in Hawaii, while shooting 58% from the field.  Najai Hines has also made his presence known, particularly on the defensive end, as he is averaging an awe inspiring 2.5 blocks per game and 6.9 rebounds per game, as he will look to wreak havoc in the paint. 

The leading players to look out for the Blue Devils would be Darin Smith Jr., who is averaging 20.7 points a game on the season so far, as he has been an absolute force on the court. Turning attention to the defensive side of the ball, Nico Ashley has been disruptive in a similar manner to Hines, leading Central Connecticut State with 11 blocks. 

CCSU has posted a pair of upset wins to open up the season, as they took down Boston College and Rutgers, with both victories coming on the road.  The Blue Devils will attempt to extend their winning streak to four, and continue to play into the role as a road spoiler against a formidable Seton Hall squad. 

The most recent matchup between Seton Hall and Central Connecticut State was during the 2016 season when the Pirates came out victorious 82-58, with that being their second matchup all-time. 

The Pirates are undefeated at home this season, with three wins at the Prudential and two at Walsh Gymnasium, and will seek to use their home court advantage to their benefit in what will likely be a packed gym.  However, with the Blue Devils having two key upsets on the road, they cannot be counted out.

In what is likely to be a close matchup, The Hall will be looking for their first home victory inside Walsh following their return from the Maui Invitational. Tip-off is set for 7:00 p.m., with AJ Rayer and Jake Marcial on call.  Catch all the action live on 89.5 WSOU.

David Martino can be reached at david.martino@student.shu.edu.

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