Georgia Hosts Long Island in Non-Conference Finale ATHENS, Ga. (Interstat) — The 11th-ranked Georgia Bulldogs, riding high as one of the nation’s surprise teams, conclude their non-conference schedule Monday night when they host the Long Island Sharks at Stegeman Coliseum. Georgia (11-1) has won seven straight games since its only loss, a 97-94 overtime setback to Clemson on Nov. 23. The Bulldogs have been dominant during the streak, winning by an average margin of 31.7 points, including a 103-74 rout of West Georgia on Dec. 22. Guard Blue Cain has been a catalyst, averaging 17.5 points over the last four games. He scored 20 points in just 22 minutes against West Georgia. “We’re playing with great confidence and sharing the basketball,“ Georgia coach Mike White said. “But we have to guard against any complacency. Long Island is a capable team that has played a tough schedule.“ The Sharks (6-6) have faced a challenging road slate, with losses at Illinois, Mississippi State and Florida International. They are led by guard Jamal Fuller, who is averaging 16.6 points over his last five games. He scored 18 points in the 86-79 loss at FIU on Dec. 20. Long Island has shown offensive firepower, scoring 87 or more points in three games this season, but has struggled defensively in its losses. “We have to be disciplined and tough for 40 minutes,“ Long Island coach Rod Strickland said. “Georgia is elite in transition. We must take care of the ball and make them work in the half-court.“ This marks the first meeting between the programs. Following this game, Georgia opens Southeastern Conference play at home against Auburn on Jan. 3. Long Island begins Northeast Conference play at home against Central Connecticut on Jan. 2.