Lipscomb at Jacksonville

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (Interstat) — The Lipscomb Bisons look to continue their surge in ASUN Conference play when they visit the Jacksonville Dolphins on Thursday night at Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena.

Lipscomb (14-7, 6-1 ASUN) enters on a three-game winning streak and sits near the top of the conference standings. The Bisons are coming off an 86-71 home victory over Florida Gulf Coast last Friday, powered by a balanced attack. Forward Ross Candelino, a key player to watch, posted 17 points and seven rebounds in that win. Over his last six games, Candelino is averaging 9.3 points and 4.2 rebounds.

Jacksonville (8-13, 3-4) aims to build momentum after snapping a two-game skid with an 81-76 overtime win against Eastern Kentucky last Saturday. The Dolphins are led by guard Chris Lockett, who erupted for a season-high 25 points in that victory. Lockett’s scoring has been volatile, but his high-ceiling performances are crucial for a Jacksonville offense averaging just 68.2 points per game.

The Dolphins will seek redemption after a 76-57 loss at Lipscomb on Jan. 1. In that game, the Bisons’ defense stifled Jacksonville, holding them to 32.8% shooting from the field. Lockett was held to 10 points on 4-of-13 shooting in the defeat.

Lipscomb has found its rhythm in January, winning seven of its last nine games. Their offense, averaging 80.6 points, will test a Jacksonville defense that allows 74.3 points per contest. The Bisons’ efficiency from beyond the arc, shooting 37.4% as a team, could be a decisive factor.

For Jacksonville, protecting home court is vital to climb the conference ladder. Their recent overtime win showed resilience, but consistency remains an issue. Containing Lipscomb’s multifaceted offense, which features four players averaging double-figure scoring, will be the primary challenge.

Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. EST. The game is part of a full slate of ASUN Conference action this weekend.