Eagles Face St. Bonaventure Wednesday in Alico Arena Season Opener

Eagles Host 2023 MAAC Preseason Poll Favorite Bonnies in Season Opener

The FGCU men's basketball team will face St. Bonaventure in an exhibition game at Alico Arena on Wednesday. The game will be the season opener for both teams. The Eagles are coming off an 18-14 (11-7 ASUN) record last season while the Bonnies are the 2023 MAAC Preseason Poll Favorite.

The Eagles return one starter from last season: junior guard Cyrus Largie. The 6-foot-2 guard averaged 9.4 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game last season. FGCU also welcomes nine newcomers to the roster including five transfers.

Head coach Michael Fly will begin his 17th season at the helm of the Eagles. Fly has led FGCU to three NCAA Tournament appearances and two ASUN Tournament titles.

The Bonnies are coming off a 20-10 (13-5 A-10) record last season. They return three starters including preseason All-A10 First Team selection Jaren Holmes. The 6-foot-4 guard averaged 18.4 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game last season.

Head coach Mark Schmidt will begin his 16th season at the helm of the Bonnies. Schmidt has led the Bonnies to three NCAA Tournament appearances and one A-10 Tournament title.

The game will be a good test for both teams. The Eagles will get a chance to see how their new-look roster stacks up against a quality opponent. The Bonnies will get a chance to tune up for their season opener against Siena on Monday, November 7.

Scouting the Bonnies

The Bonnies are a well-rounded team with a good mix of size and athleticism. They are led by Holmes, who is one of the best players in the A-10. Holmes is a versatile player who can score inside and out. He is also a good rebounder and passer.

In addition to Holmes, the Bonnies have several other talented players. Osun Osunniyi is a 6-foot-10 center who is a force on the boards. Kyle Lofton is a 6-foot point guard who is a good scorer and passer. Jalen Adaway is a 6-foot-5 wing who is a good defender and rebounder.

The Bonnies are a tough matchup for any team. They are a physical team that can score in a variety of ways. The Eagles will need to play their best game to pull off the upset.

Keys to the Game

The Eagles will need to do several things to pull off the upset. First, they will need to limit Holmes' production. Holmes is the Bonnies' best player, and he will need to be held in check if the Eagles are going to win.

Second, the Eagles will need to win the rebounding battle. The Bonnies are a big team, and they will have a significant advantage on the boards. The Eagles will need to be physical and box out the Bonnies to give themselves a chance to win.

Finally, the Eagles will need to play with poise and make their free throws. The Bonnies are a good defensive team, and they will force the Eagles into some tough shots. The Eagles will need to make their free throws to stay in the game.