Preview: Fairfield Stags at Central Connecticut Blue Devils

NEW BRITAIN, Conn. (Interstat) — Two teams riding the momentum of decisive road wins will meet Thursday when the Fairfield Stags visit the Central Connecticut Blue Devils in a nonconference men’s basketball matchup at William H. Detrick Gymnasium.

Both teams enter with 6-win records, though Fairfield sits at 6-5 overall after a 73-65 home victory over Monmouth on Sunday. Central Connecticut improved to 6-4 with an impressive 84-67 win at Binghamton last Saturday.

The game features a compelling clash of standout performers. Fairfield will lean on forward Brandon Benjamin, who is coming off a dominant 16-point, 12-rebound double-double against Monmouth. Over his last six games, Benjamin has recorded three double-doubles, showcasing his consistency on the glass and as a rim protector.

Central Connecticut counters with dynamic guard Jay Rodgers, who orchestrated the offense in the win over Binghamton with a 14-point, 10-assist double-double. Rodgers has dished out 44 assists over his last five contests, establishing himself as one of the region’s premier facilitators.

The Stags have shown resilience, winning two of their last three, but have struggled away from home with a 1-4 road record. Their offense will need contributions beyond Benjamin, with guards Declan Wucherpfennig and Braden Sparks coming off strong scoring performances against Monmouth.

The Blue Devils have been formidable at home, boasting a 4-1 record in New Britain, including an overtime win over Sacred Heart and a notable victory over Rutgers. Alongside Rodgers, Darin Smith provides a scoring punch, dropping 23 points in the last outing.

This contest serves as a final tune-up before both teams dive into their respective conference schedules in January. For Fairfield, it’s a chance to build a winning streak and find consistency. For Central Connecticut, protecting home court against a regional opponent is paramount for building postseason résumé.

Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. EST on Thursday, Dec. 18.