Struggling Cougars Face Seahawks in Nonconference Finale

NEW YORK (Interstat) — The Chicago State Cougars look to halt a nine-game skid when they visit the Wagner Seahawks in a nonconference women’s basketball matchup Friday at Spiro Sports Center.

The game, organized by the Northeast Conference, is the final tune-up for both teams before beginning their respective league schedules.

Chicago State (1-12) enters on a difficult stretch, having lost its last nine games by an average margin of 25.2 points. Its most recent outing was a 97-44 home loss to Clemson on Dec. 28. The Cougars have not won since their season opener.

A bright spot for the Cougars has been guard Keona McGee, who leads the team in scoring during this losing streak. She poured in 16 points in 34 minutes against Clemson and has averaged 10.8 points over her last five contests.

Wagner (4-7) seeks to build momentum after an 86-39 rout of Division III opponent New Jersey City on Tuesday. That victory snapped a two-game losing streak for the Seahawks.

The Seahawks are anchored by forward Lijirin Doyinsola Modesayor, who recorded a double-double with 12 points and 12 rebounds in just 20 minutes off the bench in the win. Over her last four games, she has averaged 10.8 points and 8.3 rebounds, providing a consistent interior presence.

Defense has been a key for Wagner in its wins, holding opponents to 34 and 39 points in two of its four victories this season. They will face a Chicago State offense that has been held under 62 points in eight of its 12 losses.

Following this contest, both teams dive into conference play Sunday. Chicago State opens a road swing at Long Island, while Wagner travels to face Stonehill.

Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. EST Friday on Staten Island.