The North Florida men’s basketball team is set to conclude November with an exciting matchup against Southern Illinois Edwardsville (SIUE) on Friday, Nov. 29. The game, which marks the first of two contests during their Thanksgiving road trip, will tip-off at 7 p.m. EST / 6 p.m. CST at the First Community Arena in Edwardsville, Illinois. Fans can catch the action live on ESPN+.
The Ospreys, with a current record of 4-2, recently achieved a remarkable victory against Edward Waters, recording a program-best 33 assists and hitting 20 three-pointers, just shy of the team’s all-time record for single-game three-pointers. This offensive efficiency highlights the team’s preparation and consistency, qualities head coach Matthew Driscoll emphasized in his remarks ahead of the game.
North Florida has had a historic start to the 2024–25 season, marking significant victories against powerhouse conference teams, including South Carolina and Georgia Tech. These achievements have sparked interest, as evidenced by the Ospreys receiving 14 votes in the Associated Press Top 25 poll, a first for the program. Their 3-0 start is the best since 2015-16, establishing them as a formidable force in mid-major basketball.
SIUE enters the game with a 5-3 record and is coming off a decisive 83-49 win against St. Ambrose. The Cougars are known for their strong home performance, and they have been projected to perform well in their conference this season.
This contest will be crucial for both teams as they look to solidify their momentum heading into the remainder of the season. Freshman standout performances, including an impressive scoring average from North Florida’s new talent, add to the excitement building around the team’s potential.
As the Ospreys prepare to take the court, the anticipation for what they can achieve this season is palpable, and fans are hopeful for another successful game. With a combination of experienced players and promising newcomers, North Florida’s basketball program is building a brighter future.
This matchup against SIUE not only provides a chance for North Florida to further establish itself but also paves the way for potential continued success in the season ahead. The team’s adaptable strategies, combined with individual talents, set the stage for a thrilling competitive landscape.