Mercer Preview (on The Road to Asheville)

Mercer at Western Carolina Pregame Preview 

The Mercer Bears (18-11, 10-6 SoCon) travel to face the Western Carolina Catamounts (12-15, 8-8 SoCon) in a Southern Conference matchup on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at the Ramsey Center in Cullowhee, North Carolina. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:00 PM ET, with the game streaming on ESPN+. This is the second meeting between the teams this season, following Mercer's 88-76 home victory on January 21. Both squads are jockeying for position in the SoCon standings ahead of the conference tournament in early March, with Mercer tied for third and Western Carolina in the middle of the pack.

Team Overviews and Standings
Mercer enters the game in strong conference form, sitting at 10-6 in the SoCon and just behind leaders East Tennessee State (12-3) and Wofford (10-5). The Bears boast one of the league's top offenses, averaging 83.1 points per game (42nd nationally), fueled by efficient shooting and rebounding (38.7 boards per game). Defensively, they allow 75.0 points per contest. Western Carolina, meanwhile, has struggled overall but holds a respectable 8-8 mark in conference play, placing them fifth in the SoCon. The Catamounts score 78.1 points per game but have been porous on defense, surrendering 79.0 points (315th nationally). WCU has a solid home record (8-3) and excels in rebounding (38.9 per game).

Recent Performance
Mercer has been inconsistent lately, splitting their last two games: a 94-90 home loss to Chattanooga on February 19 followed by an 89-86 win over Samford on February 21. In the Samford victory, the Bears shot efficiently (7-of-9 from Quinton Perkins II) and overcame a late push. They've won 10 of their last 14 overall but are just 5-10 on the road. Western Carolina is riding a hot streak, winners of four straight, including an 81-62 road dismantling of VMI on February 21. The Catamounts have found their rhythm, with balanced scoring (five players in double figures vs. VMI) and strong rebounding. This surge has boosted their conference standing after a shaky start.

Head-to-Head History
In their January 21 matchup, Mercer dominated at home, 88-76, led by Zaire Williams' 23 points. The Bears shot 45.6% from the field while holding WCU to 41.5%. Over the last 10 meetings, Western Carolina leads 6-4 straight up, but Mercer has won the past three, averaging 78.7 points to WCU's 70.3. Games between these rivals often stay under the total, with 7 of the last 10 unders.

SoCon Tournament Implications:
The February 25, 2026, matchup between the Mercer Bears (18-11, 10-6 SoCon) and Western Carolina Catamounts (12-15, 8-8 SoCon) at the Ramsey Center carries significant seeding ramifications for the 2026 Southern Conference Men's Basketball Tournament, set for March 6-9 at Harrah's Cherokee Center in Asheville, North Carolina. Based on recent results, including Western Carolina's 81-62 road win over VMI and Chattanooga's 93- something over The Citadel on February 21, the standings are tightly contested in the middle. East Tennessee State has clinched the No. 1 seed with a commanding lead, but spots 2-7 remain in flux.

Implications for Mercer
Currently tied with Wofford for No. 2, Mercer (NET around 180-200 based on metrics) is in prime position for a top-3 seed. A win over Western Carolina would push them to 11-6, potentially securing No. 2 outright if Wofford (playing Citadel on 2/25) stumbles. This guarantees a quarterfinal matchup against a lower seed (likely a first-round winner like Chattanooga or Citadel), easing the path to the semis. Mercer has head-to-head advantages over Wofford (assuming splits or ties resolve favorably) and owns the tiebreaker over Western Carolina. A loss drops Mercer to 10-7, risking a slide to No. 4 or lower if Samford (9-7) beats ETSU or UNCG (8-7) wins out. This could force a tougher quarterfinal against a hot No. 5 like UNCG, increasing upset risk. Mercer's strong offense (83.1 PPG) thrives in tournament settings, but road struggles (5-10 away) make this game pivotal for momentum. As a bubble team at best for at-large bids (unlikely in a one-bid league), seeding maximizes their shot at the auto-bid and a potential 14- or 15-seed in the NCAA Tournament. With both teams having two regular-season games remaining—Mercer closes at home against UNC Greensboro on February 28, while Furman visits Western Carolina on February 28—the outcome could shuffle the middle of the standings and determine byes, matchups, and paths to the automatic NCAA Tournament bid awarded to the conference champion.

 
Implications for Western Carolina
Sitting at No. 6 with an 8-8 mark, Western Carolina is on the bubble for a first-round bye. A victory over Mercer boosts them to 9-8, likely jumping to No. 5 if UNCG loses to Furman on 2/25. This sets up a quarterfinal vs. No. 4 (possibly Samford), avoiding the extra first-round game and preserving energy for their balanced attack (78.1 PPG, strong rebounding). Their four-game win streak, including road wins over Chattanooga and VMI, adds confidence, and home court (8-3 record) could fuel an upset. A loss slips them to 8-9, potentially to No. 7 if Furman wins out, forcing a first-round clash with No. 10 VMI (a winnable but draining game). Western Carolina lacks head-to-head edges over upper teams (lost to Mercer earlier) and has a weaker NET (around 300+), hurting in multi-ties. As underdogs, a strong seeding could position them for a Cinderella run, similar to past SoCon surprises, but their defensive issues (79.0 PPG allowed) make early matchups critical.

Prediction
This shapes up as a competitive rematch, with Mercer's offensive firepower clashing against Western Carolina's home-court momentum and win streak. The Catamounts' recent form and historical edge at the Ramsey Center could keep it close, but Mercer's talent edge—particularly Okojie and Mighty—gives them the nod. Expect Mercer to pull away late.

at VMI (on The Road to Asheville)

Western Carolina Cats at VMI Keydets

Date/Time: Saturday, February 21, 2026, 1:00 PM ET
Location: Cameron Hall, Lexington, VA
Broadcast: ESPN+

Context: This marks the second meeting between these SoCon rivals this season. Western Carolina (11-15, 7-8 SoCon) enters as the road favorite, looking to sweep the series after dominating VMI (6-22, 1-14 SoCon) 88-58 at home on January 24. With just a few games left in the regular season, WCU sits in 7th place in the SoCon standings and is fighting for better tournament seeding, while last-place VMI is mired in a dismal campaign and seeking its first conference win since early January.

Team Overviews:

Western Carolina Catamounts
The Catamounts have turned things around lately, riding a three-game win streak that has boosted their confidence heading into the final stretch. They've shown offensive firepower, averaging over 86 points in those victories, including a convincing 91-77 takedown of UNCG on February 18 where they shot efficiently and forced turnovers. WCU's balanced attack has been key, with multiple players stepping up in big moments. However, their road record remains a question mark, as they've struggled away from home this season.

Key stats:
Points per game: 76.2 (team average, bolstered by recent outbursts)
Rebounds per game: ~36.0
Assists per game: ~13.5

VMI Keydets
It's been a rough year for the Keydets, who have dropped 17 of their last 18 games, including a current five-game skid where they've been outscored by an average of 15 points. Their defense has been porous, allowing nearly 80 points per game, and they've struggled with rebounding (last in the nation at 33.5 RPG). Offensively, VMI relies heavily on a few standouts, but turnovers and poor shooting have plagued them. Playing at home could provide a spark, but their 1-14 SoCon mark tells the story of a team that's been overmatched.

Key stats:
Points per game: 72.5 (305th nationally)
Rebounds per game: 33.5 (353rd)
Assists per game: 12.6 (372nd)
Points allowed: 79.6

Key Players to Watch:

Western Carolina
-Cord Stansberry (G): 13.6 PPG, versatile scorer who's been hot lately (25 pts in last game).
-Marcus Kell (F): 13.5 PPG, 46.0% FG, provides efficiency inside.
-Julien Soumaoro (G): 12.2 PPG, 2.3 APG, clutch performer with back-to-back 20+ point games.
-Samuel Dada (F): Leads in rebounds at 7.3 RPG, crucial for controlling the boards.

VMI
-Johnson (F): 18.8 PPG, 7.2 RPG, the Keydets' go-to guy for scoring and rebounding.
-Tan Yildizoglu (G): 9.9 PPG, 4.6 APG, team's primary playmaker.
-Linus Holmstrom (G): 11.1 PPG, adds secondary scoring threat.

Head-to-Head History
Western Carolina holds a 42-31 all-time edge over VMI. The Catamounts won the last meeting decisively (88-58 on Jan. 24), part of a trend where they've taken 4 of the past 5 encounters. VMI's last win in the series came in 2024, but they've struggled at home against WCU (17-17 record).

Key Matchups and Storylines
WCU's Hot Streak vs. VMI's Struggles:
The Catamounts' recent offensive surge (three straight wins, high-scoring outputs) clashes with VMI's defensive woes. If WCU exploits the Keydets' poor rebounding and forces turnovers, this could get lopsided early.

Frontcourt Battle:
Samuel Dada and Abdulai Fanta Kabba for WCU will look to dominate TJ Johnson, VMI's lone consistent rebounder. Controlling the glass could limit second-chance points for the home team.

Pace of Play:
VMI prefers an up-tempo style but often falters in execution (high turnovers). WCU's guards like Tidjiane Dioumassi (2.9 APG) could capitalize on transition opportunities.

Betting Angle:
Early lines have WCU as a heavy favorite (-15.5 spread, -1500 moneyline), reflecting their form and the prior blowout.

Prediction
Western Carolina should handle business on the road, extending their win streak to four and completing the season sweep. Expect the Catamounts' balanced scoring to overwhelm VMI's leaky defense. Final score: Western Carolina 85, VMI 68.

   

UNCG (on the Road to Asheville)

Pregame Preview: UNC Greensboro Spartans at Western Carolina Catamounts

Date: Wednesday, February 18, 2026
Time: 7:00 PM ET (approximate; check local listings)
Location: Ramsey Regional Activity Center, Cullowhee, NC
TV/Stream: ESPN+ / SoCon Digital Network

Series History: UNCG leads 35-32 all-time, but has dominated recently with a 9-game winning streak, including a thrilling 81-78 victory over Western Carolina on February 4 in Greensboro. In that matchup, Spartans guard Justin Neely erupted for 25 points to seal the win with clutch free throws.

Team Snapshots
Both squads are fighting for positioning in a tight Southern Conference race with just a few weeks left before the March tournament in Asheville. The Catamounts host this rematch looking to snap their skid against the Spartans and build momentum at home.

The Spartans have turned things around after a rough non-conference slate, riding a three-game win streak into Cullowhee. Their latest: a 92-71 rout of VMI on February 11, followed by a gritty 67-64 road win at Furman on February 8. Last five: (3-2). Greensboro's defense has tightened, holding opponents under 70 points in two of their last three.

Western Carolina snapped a two-game skid with back-to-back wins, including an 87-49 demolition of The Citadel on February 11 and an 81-76 upset at Chattanooga on February 14. Last five: (3-2). The Catamounts have been boom-or-bust at home, winning four of their last six in Cullowhee, but their offense struggles on the road (averaging just 72.5 PPG in SoCon away games).Key Players to Watch

Players to Watch

UNCG Spartans 

-Justin Neely (G, Sr.): The heartbeat of this team, averaging 17.6 PPG, 11.9 RPG (leads SoCon), and 2.7 APG across 27 games. Neely's double-double machine status was on full display in the February 4 win, and he'll be a mismatch nightmare for WCU's frontcourt.
-KJ Younger (G, Jr.): 14.6 PPG off the bench, providing scoring punch with his quick release and 38% three-point shooting.
-Donald Whitehead Jr. (G, So.): 11.0 PPG, the assist man (team-high 3.1 APG) who orchestrates Greensboro's up-tempo sets.

Western Carolina

-Marcus Kell (G, Jr.): Leading scorer at 13.5 PPG in 25 games, with a knack for mid-range jumpers. Kell dropped 18 in the February 4 loss but needs to heat up from deep (31% 3PT). 

-Cord Stansberry (F, Sr.): 13.2 PPG and a versatile scorer who can stretch the floor; expect him to battle Neely on the glass.
-Samuel Dada (F, Fr.): Rebounding anchor at 7.4 RPG, crucial for second-chance points in a physical SoCon tilt. 

- Assists leader Tidjiane Dioumassi (2.9 APG) will push the pace.

Key Matchups and Storylines

Neely vs. WCU's Perimeter D: The Catamounts rank near the bottom of the SoCon in opponent three-point percentage (35.2% allowed), and Neely's ability to drive and kick could exploit that. If Greensboro gets him going early, it might open up the floor for Younger's spot-up looks.

Rebounding Battle: Both teams live and die by the boards—Greensboro edges the conference in offensive rebounds (11.2 per game), but WCU's home crowd could fuel Dada and Stansberry for extra possessions.

Pace and Turnovers: Expect a track meet; both average 75+ possessions per game. The team that protects the ball (WCU forces 14.1 turnovers per game at home) wins. No major injuries reported for either side, though WCU's depth has been tested by recent road wear.

X-Factor: Home cooking in the mountains. Cullowhee's altitude (2,100 ft) and raucous Ramsey Center atmosphere have helped the Catamounts pull off upsets, like their February 11 blowout.

Prediction
This rematch has revenge written all over it for Western Carolina, who kept it close on the road two weeks ago. The Catamounts' recent home dominance and balanced scoring give them a puncher's chance, but Greensboro's hot streak and Neely's all-around dominance make the Spartans slight favorites. Look for a high-scoring affair (O/U around 155) decided by free throws late.

The Citadel at WCU - On the Road to Asheville

Pregame Preview: The Citadel Bulldogs (9-16, 6-6 SoCon) at Western Carolina Catamounts (8-15, 4-8 SoCon)

When: Wednesday, February 11, 2026 • 6:00 PM ET
Where: Liston B. Ramsey Regional Activity Center • Cullowhee, NC
Theme: Purple Out (free purple jerseys for WCU students)
Broadcast: ESPN+ (video), Catamount Sports Network (audio), live stats available on catamountsports.com

Team Overviews and Recent Form

Western Carolina enters the matchup on a three-game losing streak after competitive road losses to Wofford and UNCG, plus a home defeat to Samford. Despite the skid, the Catamounts remain a dangerous home team with a solid 6-3 record at the Ramsey Center, where they’ve shown the ability to score efficiently and use their size inside. Overall, WCU averages around 77-78 points per game but allows about 80, reflecting a pace-friendly, up-tempo style that can lead to high-scoring affairs. They sit near the bottom of the SoCon standings but have shown flashes of potential, including a road upset win at ETSU in late January. A win here would help stabilize their positioning ahead of the conference tournament.

The Citadel Bulldogs have been one of the more competitive mid-tier SoCon teams, sitting at .500 in league play. They come in with a recent win and boast a stronger conference record than their hosts. However, their road struggles are pronounced (around 2-10 away), where they’ve often been outscored and struggled to match opponents’ efficiency. The Bulldogs play a lower-possession, more deliberate style, averaging roughly 70-71 points per game while relying on defense and rebounding to stay in games. They’ve already defeated Western Carolina once this season (79-77 in overtime on January 10 in Charleston), giving them confidence in the rematch.

Key Players to Watch

Western Carolina:
-Marcus Kell (F, 6-8): Preseason All-SoCon selection and leading scorer at ~13.8 PPG. Versatile forward who can score inside and stretch the floor.
-Cord Stansberry (G, 6-4): Reliable veteran guard averaging around 13.5 PPG with strong free-throw shooting and playmaking.
-Julien Soumaoro (G, 5-11): Dynamic scorer (~11.6 PPG) and three-point threat who can create off the dribble.
-Samuel Dada (F) and Abdulai Fanta Kabba (C, 7-0): Provide size and rebounding (Dada leads the team at ~7.0 RPG); key to controlling the paint at home.

The Citadel:
-Braxton Williams (F, 6-6): Bulldogs’ top scorer at ~13.1-13.3 PPG. Efficient shooter, especially from the line and beyond the arc; capable of big scoring nights (has multiple 20+ point games this season). -Sola Adebisi (F): Strong rebounder and interior presence who can dominate the glass and finish efficiently.
-Eze Wali (G) and supporting guards (e.g., Carter Kingsbury): Handle the backcourt playmaking and perimeter defense.

Head-to-Head and What to Watch
The teams split recent history in tight contests, with Citadel taking the January matchup in overtime. Expect a rebounding battle—WCU’s length (with 7-foot Kabba and 6-10 Chase McKey) versus Citadel’s physical frontcourt. Western Carolina will likely push the pace and try to exploit their home crowd energy with transition scoring and three-point attempts. The Citadel will aim to slow the game, limit turnovers, and capitalize on any defensive lapses by WCU.

Key factors:
-Home court advantage — WCU is much stronger at Ramsey Center than on the road.
-Citadel’s road woes — Poor away record makes this a tough test.
-Momentum — WCU needs to snap their skid; Citadel wants to improve to 7-6 in SoCon and build playoff positioning.
-Style clash — Faster-paced, higher-scoring potential if WCU dictates tempo versus a grind-it-out game if Citadel controls possession.

Prediction
Western Carolina should be favored at home in a Purple Out atmosphere, where the crowd and familiar surroundings often spark better execution. Look for the Catamounts to bounce back with a focused effort inside and from the perimeter.

Predicted score: Western Carolina 78, The Citadel 72. This midweek SoCon matchup could have implications for tiebreakers and seeding as both teams jockey for better positioning in the conference standings. Tip-off is at 6:00 PM ET—expect an energetic crowd in Cullowhee!

Western Carolina at Wofford - On the Road to Asheville

Western Carolina Catamounts at Wofford Terriers: Pregame Preview

The Western Carolina Catamounts (8-14, 4-7 SoCon) travel to Spartanburg, South Carolina, to face the Wofford Terriers (16-8, 8-3 SoCon) in a Southern Conference matchup on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 4:00 PM EST. The game will be held at Jerry Richardson Indoor Stadium and broadcast on ESPN+.

This is the first SoCon meeting between the two teams this season, with Wofford looking to extend its strong home performance and Western Carolina aiming to snap a recent skid.

Team Overviews

Wofford Terriers
The Terriers sit second in the SoCon standings and have been on a roll, going 7-3 in their last 10 games while averaging 83.2 points per contest and shooting 47.7% from the field. They score 78.8 points per game overall while allowing 75.7, and they're a perfect 1-0 in games decided by three points or fewer. At home, Wofford is 8-3.

Key players to watch:
-Kahmare Holmes: Leads the team with 19.0 PPG (47.9% FG), adding 5.7 RPG and 2.1 SPG. He's been explosive lately, scoring 36 against Samford and 27 against Mercer.
-Cayden Vasko: Averages 10.2 PPG and 4.1 APG, coming off a season-high 26 points in an 81-67 win over VMI.
-Nils Machowski: Has averaged 20.3 PPG over the last 10 games.

Recent results (last 5 games):
W 81-67 vs. VMI
L 86-72 vs. ETSU
W 81-55 vs. Chattanooga
W 80-77 vs. Mercer
W 88-78 vs. Samford

Wofford enters the game after bouncing back with a road win over VMI, showcasing their offensive firepower.

Western Carolina Catamounts

The Catamounts are eighth in the SoCon and have struggled lately, posting a 4-6 record in their last 10 games with averages of 79.4 PPG and 44.9% shooting. They score 78.1 points per game but allow 80.6, and they're 5-9 against teams over .500. Western Carolina is 4-7 in conference play.

Key players to watch:
-Julien Soumaoro: Recently scored 19 points against ETSU; averages 2.2 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.
-Cord Stansberry: Also dropped 19 against ETSU; a key scoring threat.
-Samuel Dada: Contributes 6.6 PPG and 7.0 RPG.
-Marcus Kell: Scored 18 in a win over VMI.

Recent results (last 5 games):
L 78-81 vs. UNC Greensboro
L vs. Samford
W 90-88 vs. ETSU
W 88-58 vs. VMI
L 76-88 vs. Mercer

The Catamounts are coming off back-to-back losses and will need to tighten their defense to compete on the road.

Head-to-Head History

Wofford holds a slight edge in the all-time series, leading 30-27. The Terriers have won the last four meetings and boast a 16-7 home record against Western Carolina. Since 2017, Wofford is 13-6 in the matchup. Their largest margin of victory was 84-56 in 2017.

Keys to the Game

Offense vs. Defense: Both teams can score (around 78-79 PPG), but Wofford's defense (75.7 allowed) gives them an edge over Western Carolina's leaky unit (80.6 allowed). The Terriers' recent shooting efficiency could overwhelm the Catamounts.

Home Advantage: Wofford's strong home record and crowd at Jerry Richardson Indoor Stadium could play a factor.

Star Performances: Watch for Holmes and Vasko to lead Wofford's attack, while Soumaoro's outside shooting could keep Western Carolina in it if they get hot from beyond the arc.

Close Games: Wofford excels in tight contests, which could be crucial if this turns into a nail-biter.

Prediction: Wofford should handle business at home, extending their win streak in the series. Expect a high-scoring affair, but the Terriers' form and defense give them the win.

Tracking the Cats - Jake Robinson

 

Western Wednesday - Steve White

 

Western Carolina at UNC Greensboro

Western Carolina at UNC Greensboro

The Western Carolina Catamounts (8-13 overall, 4-6 in SoCon) travel to Greensboro, North Carolina, to face the UNCG Spartans (8-15 overall, 4-6 in SoCon) on Wednesday night at Bodford Arena. Tip-off is scheduled for 6:00 PM EST, with the game streaming on ESPN+ (subscription required).

This Southern Conference matchup pits two teams tied in the conference standings at 4-6, both looking to build momentum in the second half of league play. The Catamounts enter after a recent road win streak highlight, including a tight victory over ETSU, while the Spartans are coming off a loss and seeking to snap a skid.

Team Overviews

Western Carolina Catamounts: The Catamounts have shown resilience on the road in recent outings, riding momentum from a two-game win streak heading into February. They opened the month with a home game against Samford before this road swing. WCU has been competitive in SoCon play, splitting decisions but struggling overall away from Ramsey Center (2-10 on the road this season per some reports). Key strengths include solid rebounding and defensive efforts in conference games.

UNCG Spartans: The Spartans have dealt with inconsistencies, including recent losses, but their conference record matches WCU's. They've shown capability in high-scoring affairs and could rely on home-court energy.

Key Matchup Factors

Conference Implications: With both teams at 4-6 in SoCon, a win here could provide a crucial edge in the push toward the conference tournament (March 5-9 in Asheville). It's the first meeting of the season between these squads (rematch set for February 18 in Cullowhee).

Recent Form: WCU has momentum from their ETSU road win and enters looking to extend success away from home. UNCG is trying to halt a slide and protect their homecourt.

Head-to-Head History: UNCG has historically held an edge in recent matchups (winning most of the last 10), but WCU has been more competitive lately.

Players to Watch

For Western Carolina: Look for contributions from players who stepped up in their recent ETSU thriller, including strong perimeter and rebounding efforts.

For UNCG: Key scorers and rebounders who can control the paint will be vital in a potential close contest.

This mid-week SoCon clash could be tight, with both squads evenly matched on paper. Expect a battle for positioning in the standings—should be a competitive night in Greensboro!