Preview: Drexel Dragons at College of Charleston Cougars

CHARLESTON, S.C. (Interstat) — A surging College of Charleston women’s basketball team will look to continue its strong Colonial Athletic Association start when it hosts a streaky Drexel squad on Friday, Jan. 16, 2026, at TD Arena.

The Cougars (12-3 overall) enter the matchup as one of the conference’s hottest teams, having won five straight games, including their first three in CAA play. Their most recent victory was an 88-75 road win at Hampton on Sunday, fueled by efficient offense.

Drexel (8-6) has been inconsistent, alternating wins and losses over its past five contests. The Dragons are coming off a dominant 67-38 home victory over Hofstra on Sunday but fell on the road at Stony Brook 57-53 two days prior.

The game features a compelling matchup in the post. Drexel’s player to watch is forward Deja Evans, who is coming off a 20-point, 7-rebound performance against Hofstra. She has scored 20 points in two of her last three games. Charleston counters with dynamic guard Tyja Beans, who dropped 24 points and grabbed six rebounds at Hampton. Beans has scored in double figures in five of her last six outings, including two 20-point games.

Charleston’s success has been built on balanced scoring and playmaking. In the win at Hampton, Taylor Barbot dished out 11 assists while Taryn Barbot added 12 points, five rebounds and four assists. Drexel will rely on Evans and guard Amaris Baker, who scored 14 points against Hofstra, to generate offense.

The Cougars have proven formidable at home this season, while the Dragons will aim to secure a key early conference road win. This contest represents a test of Charleston’s momentum against a Drexel team capable of strong defensive performances, as evidenced by holding Hofstra to 38 points.

The game is scheduled for a 7 p.m. EST tipoff. Following this contest, Drexel will travel to face UNC Wilmington on Sunday, Jan. 18. College of Charleston will remain at home to host Elon on the same day.