With one game remaining in their regular season, the Wayne State University men's basketball team faces a crucial matchup against Saginaw Valley State University. A win on Saturday would secure them a spot in the GLIAC Tournament quarterfinals scheduled for March 6. Conversely, a loss would mark the end of their season.
The Warriors have recently improved their form, winning four of their last six games after suffering four consecutive losses. However, they have struggled on the road this season with a record of 2-10. Their opponents, Saginaw Valley State, are currently enduring a four-game losing streak and have lost six out of their last seven games. The Cardinals have been more successful at home with a 10-5 record compared to 3-8 away from campus.
Saginaw Valley State holds an eight-game lead in the all-time series against Wayne State, leading 47-39. The Warriors ended a five-game losing streak to the Cardinals with a 79-58 victory on January 20 at home. Wayne State's last away victory against SVSU was in January 2014.
Randy Baruth is in his twelfth year as head coach of Saginaw Valley State. This season, his team ranks third in scoring offense within the GLIAC but ninth in scoring defense. They also rank third in offensive field goal percentage and are among the top teams nationally for blocking shots.
Wayne State's recent game against Northern Michigan saw them take control after an evenly contested start, ultimately securing an 84-80 win. Colin Golson Jr., who was named GLIAC Offensive Player of the Week for averaging a double-double across two victories, led the Warriors with 27 points and 13 rebounds.
Carmelo Harris leads Wayne State's scoring this season with an average of 13.1 points per game. The Warriors have demonstrated depth with five players averaging at least 8.7 points per game.
The upcoming match against Saginaw Valley State will be decisive for both teams' postseason aspirations.
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