ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (Interstat) — Two teams seeking to halt early-season slides will meet Friday when Central Michigan faces Coppin State in a non-conference men’s basketball game at McArthur Center.

The Chippewas (1-2) arrive after a heartbreaking 66-64 home loss to South Alabama on Thursday. Central Michigan’s lone win came in its season opener, an 82-66 victory over Appalachian State on Nov. 3, but it was followed by an 85-54 road loss to Bradley.

Central Michigan’s offense has been led by Tyler Koenig, who posted 17 points and eight rebounds in the loss to South Alabama. Demariontay Hall added 10 points and five rebounds.

Coppin State (0-3) is still searching for its first win under first-year head coach . The Eagles are coming off a 100-50 road loss to South Florida on Wednesday. Their season began with an 87-59 loss at La Salle and an 84-70 defeat at James Madison.

This neutral-site game is part of a multi-team event. Coppin State will remain in St. Petersburg to face South Alabama on Saturday, while Central Michigan’s next contest is at home against Northern Kentucky on Nov. 20.

Tip-off is scheduled for Friday, Nov. 14, 2025.