Preview: Chicago State at Long Island, Feb. 26, 2026 NEW YORK (Interstat) — The Long Island Sharks, riding a strong season, will look to rebound from a rare loss when they host the struggling Chicago State Cougars in a Northeast Conference men’s basketball matchup Thursday at the Wellness, Recreation & Athletic Center. Long Island (19-10) enters the contest having won eight of its last 10 games, though it is coming off a 91-83 road loss at Mercyhurst on Saturday. The Sharks boast a balanced attack but are led by guard Jamal Fuller, who is averaging 17.2 points over his last five games. He scored 26 points in the loss to Mercyhurst. Chicago State (7-22) has shown recent signs of life, winning three of its last five games, including a 70-51 victory over Central Connecticut last Saturday. The Cougars are paced by forward CJ Ray, who has been a consistent force. Ray is averaging a double-double of 16.0 points and 9.5 rebounds over his last four contests. He posted 15 points and nine rebounds in the win over Central Connecticut. The Sharks dominated the first meeting this season, winning 74-55 at Chicago State on Jan. 4. Long Island’s defense held the Cougars to 32.8% shooting from the field in that game. For Long Island, a victory would solidify its position near the top of the conference standings ahead of its regular-season finale against Fairleigh Dickinson on Saturday. Chicago State, which has not won consecutive games since December, seeks to build momentum before closing its season at Wagner. The game tips off at 7 p.m. EST. Long Island is 11-3 at home this season, while Chicago State is 2-12 on the road.