Teams: Georgetown (12-9; 3-6) vs. DePaul (10-12; 2-7)
Day: Monday, Feb.3
Time: 8:00 PM CST
Location: Allstate Arena, Rosemont, Illinois
TV: FOX Sports 1
About Georgetown:
The Georgetown Hoyas upset number seven ranked Michigan State, ending a five-game losing streak. The Hoyas defense was the key to not allowing the Spartans take the lead when they came within two points in the second half. Markel Starks was an important force down the stretch on offense and defense notching 16 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists. Although Michigan State played without Adreian Payne and Branden Dawson who are some of the Spartans’ best players, Georgetown played well on offense and defense and proved that they can compete with top teams.
About DePaul:
The Blue Demons are coming off a lost against the third best team in the Big East, Providence. DePaul may have lost, but the team had a win on the bench from RJ Currington who scored 22 points. In addition, Tommy Hamilton and Brandon Young played well scoring over 10 points apiece. DePaul needed all the help they could get because some of their top players were out because of suspension, injury and illness. It was an impressive game for DePaul who did not have many of their key players in the game. The Blue Demons even came within a few points numerous times during the contest.
Two Keys to the Game:
Georgetown's momentum
- Georgetown just beat Michigan State, which is their best win of the season with the help of Markel Starks leading the Hoyas to victory. Georgetown has been a streaky team this season winning six in a row at one point and also losing five in a row. It will be interesting to see if their success against the Spartans will carry over against the Blue Demons.
DePaul’s bench
- With the absence of multiple key players most notably Cleveland Melvin, the Blue Demons will need their bench to step up. The bench stepped up against Providence, and if the bench steps up again, it could give them the edge over Georgetown.
Prediction: Georgetown 66, DePaul 63