Georgetown Hoyas vs Ualbany Great Danes Picks and Predictions November 30th 2024

Georgetown, Albany Face Off for First-Ever Meeting

Hoyas Continue to Build Momentum Ahead of Power Conference Tests

Georgetown (5-1) looks to maintain its winning ways and fine-tune its roster ahead of a challenging December slate by hosting Albany (5-2) on Saturday in Washington, D.C. This will mark the first meeting between the two programs.

The Hoyas have impressed with three consecutive commanding victories, showcasing a revamped roster led by freshman Thomas Sorber and transfers Micah Peavy (TCU) and Malik Mack (Harvard).

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Sorber has emerged as a focal point, leading Georgetown in scoring (14.8 points), rebounding (8.3), and blocks (1.8) per game. Mack has embraced a key playmaking role, averaging a team-high 4.2 assists per game. Meanwhile, Peavy has provided versatility with his defensive tenacity and long-range accuracy, shooting 44 percent from beyond the arc while contributing 14.5 points and 3.2 steals per game.

Georgetown’s most recent outing, a dominant 66-41 victory over Wagner on Tuesday, was a testament to its defensive prowess. The Hoyas limited Wagner to just 28 percent shooting (14 of 50) and forced 18 turnovers, converting those into 22 points.

“Wagner is an older team than us and they are a really well-coached and experienced team,” Georgetown coach Ed Cooley said. “I was really proud of our men and the way that we defended with a purpose.”

Albany Looks to Rebound After Puerto Rico Setback

Albany, representing the America East Conference, comes into the matchup after a solid showing at the Puerto Rico Clasico. The Great Danes won two of three games in the tournament, but their five-game winning streak was snapped in an 81-77 loss to American on Sunday.

Defensive lapses plagued Albany in that game, as American shot an impressive 64.4 percent (29 of 45) from the field, including 56.3 percent (9 of 16) from 3-point range.

“I just didn’t think we were as competitive as we could be, which is inexcusable for a group that I think can be a conference champion,” Albany coach Dwayne Killings said.

In Puerto Rico, the Great Danes were powered by Amar’e Marshall (39 points, nine assists), Byron Joshua (37 points, nine assists, nine steals), and Justin Neely (36 points, 18 rebounds).

Key Matchup: Georgetown’s Defense vs. Albany’s Offensive Leaders

Georgetown’s ability to stifle opposing offenses will be put to the test against Albany’s key contributors. The Hoyas’ defensive pressure, which held Wagner to just 41 points, will aim to disrupt Albany’s rhythm, particularly that of Amar’e Marshall and Byron Joshua.

What’s at Stake

For Georgetown, this game serves as another opportunity to solidify its identity and build confidence ahead of a challenging December schedule that includes games against power conference opponents. Albany, on the other hand, will look to bounce back from its recent loss and prove its mettle against a high-profile opponent.