The Georgetown Hoyas (11-2, 2-0 Big East) will aim to extend their current four-game winning streak when they face the Xavier Musketeers (9-5, 1-2 Big East) at 8:00 PM ET on January 3, 2025 at Capital One Arena, Washington, D.C. The game will be broadcast on CBS Sports Network.
Georgetown is coming off a decisive 83-53 victory against Coppin State, where standout performances were delivered by Thomas Sorber, posting 22 points, 12 rebounds, and 4 blocks, and Drew Fielder, who contributed 20 points and 13 rebounds. With their recent momentum, the Hoyas are well-positioned to pursue their first 3-0 conference start since the 2011-12 season. Ed Cooley, the Hoyas’ head coach, praised his staff’s efforts, saying, "The staff has done an incredible job of bringing in talent" after their win against Coppin State.
Meanwhile, the Musketeers are rebounding from a string of close losses and secured a significant 94-72 win over Seton Hall. Leading the charge for Xavier was Ryan Conwell, who scored 22 points and demonstrated his prowess from three-point range. Coach Sean Miller emphasized the need for his team to perform at their best, stating, "We have 17 conference games in front of us... we have to be one of them" as they look to gain traction in the Big East.
Both teams are battling injury concerns as Georgetown's leading scorer Jayden Epps is listed as day-to-day due to an ankle sprain, which could significantly impact their game strategy. Epps previously averaged 15.9 points per game and was pivotal during last season's matchup against Xavier. On the other hand, Xavier's top scorer, Zach Freemantle, is out indefinitely with a knee injury, which thrusts the responsibility onto others like Marcus Foster and Conwell.
The encounter is likely to highlight the teams' contrasting styles; Georgetown’s strength lies in their defensive capabilities, especially inside the arc. They currently rank fifth nationally for two-point percentage defense and are excellent at forcing turnovers. This defensive discipline will be key to matching up against Xavier’s formidable offensive unit, known for their proficiency from beyond the arc, currently sitting sixth nationally for three-point shooting at 40.6%.
With both teams sporting impressive records yet facing mounting pressure, this matchup could be pivotal. Georgetown has managed substantial progress, having already surpassed their win total from each of the last three seasons. Their growth reflects Cooley's adjustments since taking over as head coach. Conversely, the Musketeers, who have fallen on tough times with injuries and defeats to ranked opponents, desperately need to capitalize on this game to get back to even in conference play.
Georgetown's Thomas Sorber will be one to watch, as he has showcased consistency and skill, averaging over 20 points and 10 rebounds across recent games. The Hoyas' success will rely heavily on controlling the paint and effective shot selection. Defensive boards will also be key to maintaining possession and limiting Xavier’s fast-break points, which they lead the conference with.
Xavier has historically performed well against Georgetown, winning their last five matchups. This gives them confidence heading on the road, but with both teams needing this victory to bolster their chances for postseason play, the stakes have never been higher.
Friday night’s game promises to be thrilling as both teams vie not only for victory but also to solidify their standings within the competitive Big East Conference. The final tone will be set on the court, and both coaches will need their players to execute their game plans flawlessly if they hope to leave Capital One Arena with the win.