Preview: Campbell Looks to Continue Momentum at Elon in Colonial Clash

ELON, N.C. (Interstat) — A pair of teams riding winning streaks will meet Saturday when the Campbell Fightin’ Camels visit the Elon Phoenix in a Colonial Athletic Association men’s basketball matchup at Schar Center.

Campbell (9-8, 2-0 CAA) has won three straight conference games, most recently an 86-72 home victory over Hampton on Thursday. The Fightin’ Camels are powered by guard DJ Smith, who scored 26 points in that win and is averaging 24.4 points over his last five contests. His recent surge includes a 31-point performance in a win over Northeastern on Jan. 3.

Elon (10-6, 2-1) is coming off a 69-64 road win at North Carolina A&T on Thursday. The Phoenix are led by dynamic guard Chandler Cuthrell, who poured in 22 points in that victory and is averaging 21.3 points over his last four games. Cuthrell scored 28 points in a win over Northeastern on Dec. 29.

The Phoenix have been strong at home this season, boasting a 7-1 record at Schar Center. Their lone home loss was an 85-81 setback to College of Charleston on Dec. 31. Campbell, meanwhile, has found its footing after a challenging non-conference slate that included road losses to power conference foes Minnesota and Gonzaga.

Campbell’s offense has been potent during its streak, averaging 83.7 points in its three CAA wins. Beyond Smith, Cam Gregory (17 points) and Jeremiah Johnson (18 points) were key contributors against Hampton. Elon counters with a balanced attack; alongside Cuthrell, Randall Pettus (15 points) and Ja’Juan Carr (8 points, 6 assists) provided crucial support at North Carolina A&T.

This game marks the start of a pivotal stretch for both teams. Following this contest, Elon hits the road for games at Northeastern and Hofstra. Campbell continues its road swing at UNC Wilmington next Saturday.

Saturday’s tipoff is set for 4 p.m. EST. The Phoenix will look to protect their home court and hand Campbell its first conference loss, while the Fightin’ Camels aim to extend their streak and solidify their early position in the CAA standings.