Event Preview
Overview
On Saturday, December 6, 2025, the Murray State Racers will host the Bellarmine Knights at the CFSB Center in Murray, Kentucky. Tip-off is scheduled for 2:00 PM Central Time (3:00 PM Eastern Time). This non-conference matchup marks the third meeting between the two programs, with each team having secured a home victory in their previous encounters. (athletics.bellarmine.edu) The game holds significance for both teams as they aim to build momentum ahead of their respective conference schedules.
Season Snapshot
Murray State Racers (6-3):
The Racers have demonstrated a strong start to the season, boasting a 6-3 record. They are currently on a two-game winning streak, having recently defeated George Washington 96-95 in the Cayman Islands and Morehead State 84-52 at home. Murray State excels offensively, leading the Missouri Valley Conference (MVC) with an average of 88.8 points per game. They also top the MVC in bench points (38.5 per game) and three-pointers made (10.6 per game). (goracers.com)
Bellarmine Knights (4-4):
The Knights enter the game with a 4-4 record. They are riding a three-game winning streak, including a decisive 99-60 victory over the Midway Eagles, where Michael Wilson Jr. led the team with 20 points. Bellarmine has shown offensive prowess, averaging 79.0 points per game, and ranks seventh in the Atlantic Sun Conference (ASUN) with 14.3 assists per game. (athletics.bellarmine.edu)
Recent Form
Murray State:
The Racers have been impressive at home, winning their last five games at the CFSB Center. Their recent victories over George Washington and Morehead State highlight their offensive capabilities and defensive improvements. Murray State's effective field goal percentage of .556 ranks them 76th nationally and third in the MVC. (athletics.bellarmine.edu)
Bellarmine:
The Knights are experiencing their first three-game winning streak in almost three years. Their recent performances, including the 99-60 win over Midway, demonstrate their offensive efficiency and defensive resilience. Bellarmine leads the ASUN and ranks 13th nationally with a .522 field goal percentage. (athletics.bellarmine.edu)
Talking Points
- Offensive Firepower: Murray State's high-scoring offense faces a challenge against Bellarmine's efficient shooting.
- Home Court Advantage: The Racers' perfect home record adds pressure on the visiting Knights.
- Winning Streaks: Bellarmine aims to extend their three-game winning streak, while Murray State seeks to maintain their home dominance.
- Player Matchups: Key players like Javon Jackson for Murray State and Michael Wilson Jr. for Bellarmine could be game-changers.
- Coaching Strategies: First-year head coach Ryan Miller leads Murray State, while Doug Davenport brings experience to Bellarmine.
Players to Watch
- Javon Jackson (Murray State): Averaging 16.3 points per game, Jackson is the Racers' leading scorer and a significant offensive threat. (washingtonpost.com)
- Michael Wilson Jr. (Bellarmine): Scored 20 points in the recent win over Midway, showcasing his scoring ability. (athletics.bellarmine.edu)
- Layne Taylor (Murray State): Leads the MVC with 4.3 assists per game, facilitating the Racers' high-scoring offense. (washingtonpost.com)
- Jack Karasinski (Bellarmine): Averaging 20.8 points per game, Karasinski is a key offensive contributor for the Knights. (washingtonpost.com)
- Fred King (Murray State): Shooting 73.3% from the field, King provides efficient scoring for the Racers. (athletics.bellarmine.edu)
Key Matchups & Storylines
- Offensive Efficiency vs. Defensive Pressure: Murray State's high-scoring offense will test Bellarmine's defensive strategies.
- Home Court Dynamics: The Racers' perfect home record adds pressure on the visiting Knights.
- Player Matchups: Individual performances, particularly from Jackson and Wilson Jr., could be decisive.
- Coaching Tactics: The strategic approaches of first-year head coach Ryan Miller and veteran Doug Davenport will influence the game's outcome.
Fun Facts
- Murray State has 18 NCAA Tournament appearances and has won five games, the last win in 2022. (goracers.com)
- Bellarmine leads the ASUN and ranks 13th nationally with a .522 field goal percentage. (athletics.bellarmine.edu)
- The game will honor Murray State's 1999-2000 Ohio Valley Conference championship team, with their championship rings being presented. (goracers.com)
- Bellarmine has not been .500 this late in the season since 2021-22 when they won the ASUN championship. (athletics.bellarmine.edu)
Things to Chirp About
- "Can Murray State's offense continue its high-scoring ways against Bellarmine's defense?"
- "Will Bellarmine's winning streak be extended to four games?"
- "How will the Racers' home court advantage impact the game's outcome?"
- "Which player will step up as the game-changer: Jackson or Wilson Jr.?"
Prediction
This matchup promises an exciting contest between Murray State's potent offense and Bellarmine's efficient shooting. While the Racers have the advantage of playing at home, the Knights' recent form and offensive capabilities make them formidable opponents. The game is expected to be closely contested, with both teams having opportunities to secure the win.