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Georgia Eyes Continued Success Against Surging Grand Canyon
Georgia, off to its best start since the 2006-07 season, is set to face Grand Canyon in Atlanta on Saturday, with both teams riding win streaks and aiming to maintain their strong form.
Bulldogs’ Defensive Prowess
The Bulldogs (8-1) have thrived on defense under coach Mike White, allowing just 64.4 points per game — the third-fewest in the SEC. Opponents are shooting a mere 38.8 percent from the field and 27.5 percent from beyond the arc. This defensive intensity was on full display in Georgia’s last outing, a 69-48 victory over Notre Dame on Dec. 3 in the SEC/ACC Challenge.
A key contributor has been Vanderbilt transfer Tyrin Lawrence, who ranks second on the team with 1.8 steals per game while averaging 11.4 points. White has praised Lawrence’s impact, saying, “Tyrin defensively has been fantastic. He’s just been really sharp and accountable throughout the year.”
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Offensively, Georgia boasts multiple scoring options, led by Asa Newell (15.9 ppg), Silas Demary Jr. (13.7 ppg, 2.0 steals per game), and Dakota Leffew (13.3 ppg). This balanced attack has helped the Bulldogs win three straight games and control the pace on both ends of the court.
Grand Canyon’s Strong Form
The Lopes (6-2), led by former Vanderbilt coach Bryce Drew, are on a four-game winning streak, including a notable victory over Stanford on Nov. 26. Grand Canyon is no stranger to facing tough opponents, and Drew’s familiarity with SEC competition adds an intriguing layer to this matchup.
The Lopes are powered by Tyon Grant-Foster (16.0 ppg) and JaKobe Coles (15.9 ppg). However, the return of Duke Brennan has been a game-changer. Since recovering from injury, the 6-foot-10 junior is averaging 9.8 points and eight rebounds, providing a significant presence in the paint.
“Having Duke Brennan changes our team dramatically,” Drew said. “His ability to pressure the rim and create opportunities for teammates makes us much more dynamic on both ends.”
Key Matchup: Defense vs. Depth
Georgia’s smothering defense will be tested by Grand Canyon’s balanced scoring attack, led by Grant-Foster and Coles. The Bulldogs’ ability to contain Brennan in the paint could be a decisive factor, especially with Lawrence and Demary Jr. excelling at disrupting passing lanes and creating transition opportunities.
For the Lopes, matching Georgia’s defensive intensity and finding ways to score against a well-organized unit will be crucial. Their ability to hit outside shots could stretch Georgia’s defense and open up lanes for Brennan and Coles.
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What to Watch
- Tyrin Lawrence’s all-around impact: His defense and transition play could swing momentum in Georgia’s favor.
- Duke Brennan vs. Georgia’s frontcourt: Brennan’s physicality could be the key to keeping Grand Canyon competitive.
- Tempo control: Georgia will aim to dictate the pace and capitalize on turnovers, while Grand Canyon will look to slow things down and execute in the half court.
Prediction
Georgia’s defense and depth give the Bulldogs a slight edge in what promises to be a closely contested battle. While Grand Canyon’s balanced offense and Brennan’s presence inside pose challenges, the Bulldogs’ ability to create turnovers and score in transition should prove decisive.
