Morgan State W vs UMBC Retrievers W

Overview

The Morgan State Lady Bears are set to host the UMBC Retrievers in the Charm City Hoops Classic on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at Hill Field House in Baltimore, Maryland. Tip-off is scheduled for 2 p.m. EST, with the game available for streaming on ESPN+. This non-conference matchup serves as an early-season test for both teams, providing an opportunity to build momentum as they approach their respective conference schedules. The game also holds significance in the local basketball scene, as both teams are based in the Baltimore area, adding a layer of regional rivalry to the contest.

Season Snapshot

Morgan State enters the game with a 1-9 record, having faced a challenging start to the season. Their lone victory came against Notre Dame of Maryland on November 16, 2025, with a decisive 75-32 scoreline. Since then, the Lady Bears have struggled, dropping seven consecutive games, including a 79-66 loss to Toledo on December 2, 2025. In that game, Ja'la Bannerman led the team with 16 points, while Kailyn Nash and Gabrielle Johnson added 13 and 11 points, respectively. (morganstatebears.com)

UMBC comes into the matchup with a 3-5 record. They recently snapped a four-game losing streak with a 68-48 victory over Presbyterian on November 30, 2025. In that game, Jade Tillman scored a team-high 12 points and grabbed seven rebounds, while Heidi Williams added 10 points. (morganstatebears.com)

Recent Form

Morgan State's recent form has been marked by a series of close losses. Their most recent defeat, a 79-66 loss to Toledo, showcased their resilience despite the unfavorable outcome. The Lady Bears have demonstrated competitive play but have struggled to close out games, leading to their current seven-game losing streak.

UMBC, on the other hand, has shown signs of recovery after their recent win against Presbyterian. The victory ended a four-game losing streak, providing a boost in confidence as they prepare for the matchup against Morgan State.

Talking Points

• Morgan State's Home Advantage: The Lady Bears return to Hill Field House for the first time since hosting Johns Hopkins on November 18, 2025. Playing on their home court could provide a much-needed boost to their performance. (morganstatebears.com)

• UMBC's Road Performance: The Retrievers have a 1-3 record in away games this season. Their ability to perform on the road will be crucial in this matchup.

• Defensive Strategies: UMBC ranks eighth in the America East Conference, allowing 65.1 points per game while holding opponents to 40.7% shooting. Their defensive prowess will be tested against Morgan State's offense. (foxsports.com)

• Morgan State's Offensive Efficiency: The Lady Bears average 4.2 made three-pointers per game, closely matching UMBC's average of 4.4 three-pointers allowed per game. This three-point shooting battle could be a key factor in the game's outcome. (foxsports.com)

• Coaching Dynamics: Morgan State's head coach, Nadine Domond, emphasized the importance of rivalry games and the need for strong fan support. Her leadership will be pivotal in guiding the team through this challenging period. (morganstatebears.com)

Players to Watch

• Ja'la Bannerman (Morgan State): Leading the team with 16 points in the recent loss to Toledo, Bannerman's scoring ability will be crucial for the Lady Bears. (morganstatebears.com)

• Jade Tillman (UMBC): Scored a team-high 12 points and grabbed seven rebounds in the win against Presbyterian, showcasing her all-around skills. (morganstatebears.com)

• Kennedy Austin (UMBC): Averaging 12.6 points per game this season, Austin's scoring consistency makes her a key player for the Retrievers. (foxsports.com)

• Gabrielle Johnson (Morgan State): Contributed 11 points in the recent game against Toledo, highlighting her potential to impact the game offensively. (morganstatebears.com)

• Heidi Williams (UMBC): Added 10 points in the victory over Presbyterian, demonstrating her capability to contribute significantly on the scoreboard. (morganstatebears.com)

Key Matchups & Storylines

• Home Court Advantage: Morgan State's return to Hill Field House could provide a psychological edge, potentially boosting their performance after a series of away games.

• Defensive Battle: UMBC's strong defensive statistics will be tested against Morgan State's offensive strategies, particularly their three-point shooting.

• Momentum Shift: UMBC's recent victory over Presbyterian may have restored their confidence, while Morgan State seeks to end their seven-game losing streak, making this a pivotal game for both teams.

Fun Facts

• Local Rivalry: Both teams are based in Baltimore, adding a regional rivalry element to the matchup.

• Coaching Leadership: Morgan State's head coach, Nadine Domond, has emphasized the importance of rivalry games and the need for strong fan support. (morganstatebears.com)

• Recent Matchups: In the last nine encounters between the teams, UMBC leads with five wins to Morgan State's four. (morganstatebears.com)

Things to Chirp About

• "Can Morgan State turn their home court into a fortress after a tough road stretch?"

• "Will UMBC's defense stifle Morgan State's three-point shooters?"

• "Is this the game Morgan State ends their seven-game losing streak?"

• "How will the local rivalry influence the intensity of the game?"

Prediction

While both teams have faced challenges this season, Morgan State's return to home court could provide the boost they need to secure a victory. However, UMBC's recent win and strong defensive metrics suggest they will be formidable opponents. The game is expected to be closely contested, with the outcome potentially hinging on key individual performances and strategic adjustments.