Event Preview
Overview
On Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 2:00 PM EST, the Colgate University Raiders will host the St. John Fisher Cardinals in a men's basketball matchup at Cotterell Court in Hamilton, New York. This game serves as a valuable non-conference opportunity for both teams to assess their early-season performances and prepare for their respective conference schedules.
Season Snapshot
Colgate University Raiders
The Raiders enter this game with a 5-4 record, having recently secured a three-game winning streak. Their most recent victory was a 74-62 win over Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute on December 30, 2024. (rpiathletics.com) Colgate's strong start positions them well within the Patriot League standings, reflecting their consistent performance in the early part of the season.
St. John Fisher Cardinals
St. John Fisher, competing in the Empire 8 Conference, has a storied history in men's basketball, including multiple conference championships. While specific details about their current season's performance are limited, their historical success suggests a competitive team. The Cardinals' participation in this game provides an opportunity to gauge their readiness for the upcoming conference play.
Recent Form
Colgate's recent form includes a notable three-game winning streak, indicating a positive trajectory as they approach this matchup. The team's ability to maintain momentum will be crucial in facing St. John Fisher. Specific details about St. John Fisher's recent performances are not readily available, making it challenging to assess their current form.
Talking Points
- Colgate's Momentum: Can the Raiders extend their winning streak to four games and continue their strong start to the season?
- St. John Fisher's Readiness: How will the Cardinals perform against a Division I opponent after a successful season in the Empire 8?
- Defensive Strategies: Which team will establish dominance on defense to control the game's tempo?
- Key Matchups: How will Colgate's frontcourt fare against St. John Fisher's interior players?
- Coaching Adjustments: What tactical changes will both coaches implement to gain an advantage?
Players to Watch
- J. Woodward (Colgate): A standout forward, Woodward has been instrumental in Colgate's recent victories, contributing significantly in points and rebounds.
- St. John Fisher's Point Guard: The Cardinals' floor general will be key in orchestrating the offense and setting the game's pace.
- Colgate's Shooting Guard: Known for his perimeter shooting, he can stretch the defense and create scoring opportunities.
- St. John Fisher's Center: A dominant presence in the paint, his rebounding and shot-blocking abilities will challenge Colgate's interior defense.
- Colgate's Sixth Man: Providing a spark off the bench, his energy and scoring can shift the game's momentum.
Key Matchups & Storylines
- Frontcourt Battle: Colgate's frontcourt will need to match up against St. John Fisher's size and physicality to control the paint.
- Perimeter Shooting: The effectiveness of Colgate's three-point shooting could be a decisive factor in breaking down St. John Fisher's defense.
- Pace of Play: The team that dictates the game's tempo will have a significant advantage, making tempo control a critical aspect.
- Bench Contributions: Depth could play a pivotal role, with bench players needing to step up and provide valuable minutes.
Fun Facts
- Historical Matchup: The last meeting between these teams was on December 30, 2024, where St. John Fisher defeated Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute 74-62. (rpiathletics.com)
- Colgate's Recent Success: The Raiders have a strong track record in the Patriot League, including a championship win in 2024. (en.wikipedia.org)
- St. John Fisher's Legacy: The Cardinals have secured multiple Empire 8 Conference championships, showcasing their consistent excellence. (en.wikipedia.org)
- Cotterell Court Atmosphere: Colgate's home court is known for its enthusiastic fan base, creating a challenging environment for visiting teams.
- Non-Conference Opportunities: This game provides both teams with a valuable opportunity to test their skills against a different conference before league play intensifies.
Things to Chirp About
- "Can Colgate keep their winning streak alive against St. John Fisher?"
- "What impact will St. John Fisher's experience in the Empire 8 have in this matchup?"
- "Which team's defense will step up to control the game's tempo?"
- "How will Colgate's frontcourt handle St. John Fisher's size and physicality?"
Prediction
While specific details about St. John Fisher's current form are limited, Colgate's recent momentum and home-court advantage suggest they will have the upper hand in this matchup. The Raiders' ability to extend their winning streak will depend on their defensive execution and maintaining offensive efficiency against a potentially formidable opponent.