A few years ago this would have been a matchup of two of the CAA’s powerhouses.  Unfortunately both teams have taken a couple steps (or in ODU’s case, an entire staircase) back.  The Monarchs travel to the Patriot Center sporting a 2-13 overall record, and an unprecedented 0-3 CAA record. George Mason currently sits at 8-6 overall, and 1-1 in the CAA.  The Patriots are one of two teams floating above .500 in the CAA.

Sherrod Wright is coming off another stellar game in which he carried the Patriots to victory with his 28 points.  It’ll be interesting to see how the Monarchs plan to slow him down.  Mason has struggled to find another consistent scorer so far, but Corey Edwards’ elevated play has helped the Patriots in their past few wins.

I could see DeShawn Painter putting in a solid game (13 points, 10 rebounds).  Besides that it would come down to one of ODU’s wildcard players to have a big game.  Possible suspects: Batten, Palmore, or maybe Bacote, if he’s able to play effectively in his return from injury.

I don’t believe ODU will have enough firepower to overcome the Patriots in the Patriot Center.  However, the emotional aspect of these longtime rivals should make it an interesting game.  Struggles in the final two minutes continue to haunt the Monarchs.

GMU 72, ODU 68