The North Carolina Central Eagles will play against the VMI Keydets on November 11, 2026, at Cameron Hall in Lexington, VA. The Eagles are looking for their first win of the season after starting with an 0-2 record. This game will be available on ESPN+.
The Eagles have struggled away from home with two losses this season. Darius Kane has been a standout for them, showing scoring ability with 22 points against Longwood. Tyler Mason also contributed with 20 points in that game.
The VMI Keydets come into this game with a 1-2 record, winning their only home game. TJ Johnson has been a key player, scoring 19 points against SMU. Rickey Bradley Jr. provided a strong performance against UTSA with 16 points and 10 rebounds.
VMI vs North Carolina Central At a Glance
- Matchup: North Carolina Central Eagles vs VMI Keydets
- Venue: Cameron Hall, Lexington VA
- Date & Time: Wednesday, November 11, 2026 at 6:00 PM ET
- TV Channel: ESPN+
- Game Odds: VMI favored by 5.5 points
- Team Records: Eagles 0-2, Keydets 1-2
VMI Keydets Eye Win in Upcoming Game
Offensive Overview
The VMI Keydets score an average of 84.3 points per game. They rank 140th in the nation for scoring. The team attempts 69.3 field goals per game.
Despite a high number of attempts, their field goal percentage sits at 39.9%. This places them at 324th in the rankings. Their effective field goal percentage is 47.1%.
Three-Point Shooting
The Keydets make an average of 9.7 three-point shots each game. They attempt 29.7 threes per game, which ranks them 102nd. Their three-point shooting percentage is 32.6%.
While they shoot frequently from beyond the arc, their success rate leaves room for improvement. Players like TJ Johnson contribute to their three-point scoring.
Defensive Play
VMI averages 10.3 steals per game. However, they rank low in blocks per game with an average of 1.7. Turnovers remain a challenge, with the team averaging 16.7 per game.
The Keydets commit 16.7 fouls per game. Maintaining discipline on defense will be key to their success. Improving their defense can make a significant difference in outcomes.
Key Players to Watch
TJ Johnson leads the team with 17.7 points per game. Rickey Bradley Jr. averages 13 points and 5.3 rebounds per game. Rokas Zilys is also a solid contributor with 11 points per game.
Alexander Daushvili provides strength in rebounding, averaging 8.7 per game. AJ Clark is efficient in his shooting, hitting 75% of his shots. These players form the backbone of the team's performance.
Team Betting Trends
- SU Last 3: 1-2 (33.3%)
- SU All Games: 1-2 (33.3%)
- ATS Last 3: 1-1-1 (33.3%)
- ATS as Underdog: 1-1 (50.0%)
- O/U Last 3: 1-1 (50.0%)
The Keydets will aim to improve their record. They have struggled as underdogs, yet remain competitive. Their focus will be on converting more shots and tightening defense.
North Carolina Central Eagles Aim to Soar Higher in Upcoming Game
Offensive Overview
The Eagles are averaging 68.5 points per game, ranking them near the bottom nationally. Their shooting accuracy is an issue, with a field goal percentage of 40.8%. They attempt a good number of two-point shots, but their success rate is low at 44.4%.
Three-point shooting is also a challenge for the Eagles. They make 5.5 threes per game on 31.4% shooting. Improving these numbers could be key for their offensive success.
Defensive Insights
On the defensive end, the Eagles grab 36.5 rebounds per game. They manage 7 steals and 3 blocks per game. Turnovers are a problem, with the team averaging 14.5 per game.
Fouling is another area where the Eagles could improve. They commit 17 fouls per game, which might put opponents on the line too often.
Key Players
Darius Kane is a standout player, contributing 14 points per game. He also averages 6 assists and 2.5 steals. His shooting efficiency is high at 50%.
Cristian Sanon provides support with 13.5 points per game. However, his shooting percentage is lower at 31%, which he might look to improve.
Recent Performance
In their last game against Longwood, the Eagles scored 75 points. Kane scored 22 points, leading the team. The game ended in a close loss by 5 points.
Earlier, the team played Georgia and scored 62 points. Sanon was the top performer with 19 points, although the team lost by 16 points.
Betting Trends
- SU Last 3: 0-2 (0.0%)
- ATS Last 3: 2-0 (100.0%)
- O/U Last 3: 1-1 (50.0%)
- SU as Underdog: 0-2 (0.0%)
- ATS as Underdog: 2-0 (100.0%)
VMI vs North Carolina Central Prediction: North Carolina Central +5.5
North Carolina Central has shown promise against the spread, covering in both of their games this season. Despite their winless record, they have kept games competitive enough to cover the spread as underdogs. Their ability to cover makes them a strong pick against VMI, especially with a +5.5 advantage.
VMI has struggled to cover the spread with a record of 1-1-1 ATS. They have been inconsistent in their performances, especially on the defensive end, which could allow North Carolina Central to stay within the spread. VMI's defense allows for North Carolina Central to potentially exploit weaknesses, increasing the likelihood of a close game.
The Eagles have shown they can score, averaging 68.5 points per game, and face a VMI team giving up 84.3 points per game. This defensive vulnerability from VMI could be the opening North Carolina Central needs to keep the game within reach. North Carolina Central's defense can also limit VMI's shooting opportunities.
Considering VMI's defensive struggles and North Carolina Central's ability to cover spreads, picking North Carolina Central +5.5 is a sound decision. Expect a tightly contested game with North Carolina Central keeping it close.
- VMI vs North Carolina Central Prediction: North Carolina Central +5.5
- VMI vs North Carolina Central Score: VMI 78 - North Carolina Central 74
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