Event Preview
Overview
The Florida International Panthers (FIU) are set to host the Jacksonville Dolphins in a non-conference men's basketball matchup on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 7:00 PM EST. The game will take place at the Ocean Bank Convocation Center in Miami, Florida. Both teams enter the contest with identical 4-3 records, making this an important game for both squads to gain momentum as they approach the heart of their respective seasons. (wtop.com)
Season Snapshot
Florida International Panthers (4-3):
The Panthers have demonstrated a potent offense, averaging 83.9 points per game, ranking fourth in Conference USA. Their home performance has been strong, boasting a 4-1 record at the Ocean Bank Convocation Center. Key contributors include Corey Stephenson, who leads the team with 18.0 points per game, and Julian Mackey, who adds 13.7 points per game. (wtop.com)
Jacksonville Dolphins (4-4):
The Dolphins have shown resilience, especially on the road, where they hold a 1-3 record. Offensively, they average 74.8 points per game. Jaylen Jones is a standout player, contributing 11.4 points per game and 1.5 steals per game. (wtop.com)
Recent Form
Florida International Panthers:
The Panthers are on a two-game winning streak, including a recent 89-83 victory against the Florida Gulf Coast Eagles. This win highlights their offensive prowess and ability to close out tight games. (wtop.com)
Jacksonville Dolphins:
The Dolphins have experienced a mix of results, with their most recent game being a 78-75 victory on November 19, 2016. However, this game is from a previous season and may not reflect their current form. (thescore.com)
Talking Points
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Offensive Firepower: Both teams boast high-scoring offenses, with FIU averaging 83.9 points per game and Jacksonville 74.8 points per game. Which team will impose its offensive will?
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Home Court Advantage: FIU has a strong home record of 4-1. Can the Dolphins overcome the challenge of playing on the road?
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Key Player Matchups: The battle between FIU's Corey Stephenson and Jacksonville's Jaylen Jones could be pivotal. How will these players impact the game's outcome?
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Defensive Strategies: With both teams allowing over 70 points per game, which defense will step up to make crucial stops?
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Momentum Shift: FIU enters on a two-game winning streak. Can they continue their strong play, or will Jacksonville halt their momentum?
Players to Watch
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Corey Stephenson (FIU): Leading the Panthers with 18.0 points per game, Stephenson's scoring ability is central to FIU's offense. (wtop.com)
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Jaylen Jones (Jacksonville): Averaging 11.4 points and 1.5 steals per game, Jones is a key contributor for the Dolphins. (wtop.com)
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Julian Mackey (FIU): Adding 13.7 points per game, Mackey provides additional scoring support for the Panthers. (wtop.com)
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Donovan Rivers (Jacksonville): Averaging 4.8 rebounds per game, Rivers contributes significantly on the boards. (foxsports.com)
Key Matchups & Storylines
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Offensive Efficiency vs. Defensive Resilience: FIU's high-scoring offense faces a Jacksonville defense that has struggled to contain opponents. Will the Dolphins' defense rise to the occasion?
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Home Court Advantage: FIU's strong home record suggests they are comfortable at the Ocean Bank Convocation Center. Can Jacksonville overcome the challenges of playing on the road?
Fun Facts
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High-Scoring Teams: Both teams are known for their offensive prowess, with FIU averaging 83.9 points per game and Jacksonville 74.8 points per game. (wtop.com)
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Historical Matchup: The most recent meeting between these teams was on November 19, 2016, where Jacksonville won 78-75. (thescore.com)
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Key Players: Corey Stephenson leads FIU with 18.0 points per game, while Jaylen Jones leads Jacksonville with 11.4 points per game. (wtop.com)
Things to Chirp About
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"Can FIU's offense continue its high-scoring ways against Jacksonville?"
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"Will Jacksonville's defense step up on the road?"
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"How will the home court advantage play a role in this matchup?"
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"Which key player will have the biggest impact on the game's outcome?"
Prediction
Given FIU's strong home performance and high-scoring offense, they may have the edge in this matchup. However, Jacksonville's resilience and potential to improve on the road could make it a closely contested game. The outcome may hinge on which team can execute its game plan more effectively.