Holy Cross Seeks Road Win Against American in Patriot League Clash

WASHINGTON (Interstat) — The Holy Cross Crusaders look to snap a three-game skid when they visit the American Eagles in a Patriot League men’s basketball matchup Saturday at Bender Arena.

Holy Cross (6-10) enters after a 58-66 loss at Lehigh on Wednesday. The Crusaders have struggled offensively during their losing streak, failing to reach 60 points in the last two contests. Guard Gabe Warren, the team’s consistent scoring threat, led Holy Cross with 15 points in the loss to Lehigh. Over his last five games, Warren is averaging 11.6 points.

American (9-7) aims to rebound from a narrow 62-64 road loss to Colgate on Wednesday. The Eagles had won two straight prior to that defeat. Guard Geoff Sprouse, who scored 14 points against Colgate, has been a key contributor. He averaged 11.6 points over his last five outings, including a 16-point, 5-assist performance in a loss at VCU.

The Eagles hold the advantage in season record and will play on their home court, where they are 5-2 this season. American’s offense has shown higher output, averaging 72.1 points per game compared to Holy Cross’s 65.9.

Holy Cross will need to improve its shooting after converting at a 38.5% clip from the field in the loss to Lehigh. Containing Sprouse and limiting second-chance opportunities will be critical for the Crusaders’ chances.

This game is the first of a regular-season series between the teams, who will meet again in Worcester, Massachusetts, on Jan. 24.

Tip-off is set for Saturday afternoon in the nation’s capital.