Preview

MACON, Ga. (Interstat) — The Mercer Bears, off to a strong 5-2 start, will look to continue their winning ways when they host the struggling Georgia State Panthers in a non-conference men’s basketball game Tuesday at Hawkins Arena. The Bears are riding a three-game winning streak, most recently defeating Elon 91-84 on Saturday. Guard Baraka Okojie led the charge in that victory, pouring in 29 points and dishing out 10 assists. Mercer’s offense has been potent, averaging 85 points during its current streak. They will face a Georgia State team mired in a six-game losing streak. The Panthers (1-7) are coming off a 77-58 loss to New Mexico State last Wednesday. Despite the defeat, forward Joah Chappelle recorded a double-double with 14 points and 11 rebounds, while Micah Tucker added 15 points. Georgia State’s lone win this season came against Division II Fort Valley State on Nov. 13. The matchup pits Mercer’s high-scoring attack against a Panthers squad that has failed to reach 65 points in six of its eight games. The Bears have won four straight at home, while the Panthers are 0-6 in true road games. Tuesday’s contest is the first of a two-game homestand for Mercer before a challenging road stretch. Georgia State continues its search for a turnaround before opening Sun Belt Conference play later this month.