The Longwood Lancers are gearing up for their first true road game of the season as they face the Binghamton Bearcats in a pivotal matchup on Tuesday, November 19, 2024. The game is set to tip off at 6 p.m. ET at Dr. Bai Lee Court in Vestal, New York. Longwood enters the contest undefeated at 4-0, while Binghamton holds a 2-3 record. This marks the first-ever meeting between the two teams and kicks off Longwood’s challenging four-game road stretch.
Longwood’s Strong Start Under Coach Griff Aldrich
Longwood is off to an impressive start, matching their best opening record under head coach Griff Aldrich. The Lancers are 4-0 for the second time in Aldrich’s tenure, replicating their 2018-19 season. Longwood was picked to finish third in the Big South preseason rankings, while Binghamton was placed sixth in the America East. This game provides a significant test for the undefeated Lancers as they take their talents on the road for the first time this season.
Key Players to Watch
The Lancers have been led by KJ McClurg, who is averaging 15.8 points per game, and Johan Nziemi, contributing 10 points per game. Longwood has five players averaging at least seven points per contest, demonstrating their balanced offensive attack. On the other side, Binghamton’s standout player is Ben Callahan-Gold, who leads the Bearcats with 13.6 points per game. Binghamton has three players averaging double digits, and their offensive attack will look to challenge Longwood’s solid defense.
KJ McClurg (image via Getty)Last Time Out: Longwood’s Thrilling Comeback Win
Longwood enters this matchup fresh off an exciting 64-62 comeback victory over UT Martin. Despite trailing by double digits, the Lancers were able to recover thanks to clutch performances from KJ McClurg and Jaylen Benard. McClurg was outstanding, scoring 20 of his 25 points in the second half, including five three-pointers. Benard also played a key role, contributing two crucial triples and grabbing six rebounds, including four on the offensive glass. Kyrell Luc sealed the win with two free throws in the final moments. Despite UT Martin’s impressive 10 three-pointers, Longwood’s defensive intensity helped them secure the win.
By the Numbers: Longwood’s Strong Defense and Offensive Efficiency
Longwood’s undefeated start ranks among the best in Virginia, tying programs like Norfolk State, VCU, Liberty, and VMI for the most wins in the Commonwealth. The Lancers have been particularly dominant on the defensive end, holding their past three opponents to just 21.1% shooting from beyond the arc and limiting their last two opponents to under 36% shooting general. Longwood leads the Big South in three-point defense (.262) and ranks 47th nationally. Additionally, Longwood forces an average of 17.3 turnovers per game, the second-best mark in the Big South.
On offense, the Lancers are strong as well, ranking fourth nationally in free throw attempts per game (33.5) and third in made free throws (24.8). KJ McClurg ranks second in the Big South with 27 made free throws out of 34 attempts. Longwood’s depth is another advantage, as seven different players have scored in double figures this season, and their bench contributes an impressive 32 points per game.
Binghamton’s Challenges and Strengths
Binghamton enters the game with a 2-3 record. The Bearcats average 70.4 points per game but have struggled defensively, allowing opponents to score 77 points per contest, resulting in a -6.6 scoring margin. Binghamton boasts a solid field goal percentage of .463, but they have allowed opponents to shoot .427 from the floor. Callahan-Gold has been the key player for the Bearcats, but their defensive vulnerabilities will be a point of concern against Longwood’s high-scoring offense.
Statistical Comparison
| Category | Longwood (LWU) | Binghamton (BING) |
|---|---|---|
| 2024-25 Record | 4-0 | 2-3 |
| Points Per Game | 75.8 | 70.4 |
| Opp. Points Per Game | 64.5 | 77 |
| Scoring Margin | +11.3 | -6.6 |
| Rebounds Per Game | 39.3 | 37.8 |
| Field Goal Percentage | .425 | .463 |
| Opp. Field Goal Percentage | .392 | .427 |
| 3-Point Percentage | .262 | .350 |
| Free Throw Percentage | .739 | .667 |
| Turnovers Forced Per Game | 17.3 | 9.8 |
| Assist/Turnover Ratio | 0.8 | 1 |
What’s Next for Longwood?
After facing Binghamton, Longwood will continue their road stretch, looking to extend their unbeaten streak. The Lancers will need to keep their defensive intensity high and capitalize on their offensive depth if they are to remain undefeated. Stay tuned for more coverage and updates from Etruesports, where we provide in-depth analysis of the latest NCAA basketball action.
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