The excitement is building as the Georgetown Hoyas gear up to take on the DePaul Blue Demons on March 8th at the Wintrust Arena in Chicago. This matchup is not just another game; it’s the last regular-season contest for both teams, and it has significant implications for the upcoming Big East Tournament. Fans can catch the action starting at 2 PM ET on FS1, and both teams are looking to hit their stride at just the right time.
Georgetown Men’s Basketball Travels to Chicago to Close the Regular Season at DePaul
The Hoyas, with a current record of 17 wins and 13 losses, are coming off a nail-biting victory against the Villanova Wildcats, where they triumphed 75-73. This win was particularly sweet for Georgetown as it marked their first sweep of Villanova since the 1992-1993 season. Star player Jayden Epps was instrumental in that game, scoring 20 points, including a game-winning layup that had fans cheering. Micah Peavy also shone brightly, adding 19 points and showcasing his shooting skills, particularly from beyond the arc.
Georgetown Advantages
The Hoyas will look to capitalize on their strong guard play, which has been a key factor in their success this season. With players like Epps and Peavy leading the charge, Georgetown ranks fourth in scoring defense in the Big East, allowing an average of just 68.1 points per game. This defensive strength will be vital as they face a DePaul team that has shown improvements recently, especially in their last few games.
Georgetown Disadvantages
Despite their strengths, Georgetown is facing challenges, particularly with depth in their lineup. The absence of center Thomas Sorber, who is out for the season due to foot surgery, leaves a noticeable gap in their frontcourt. This could be a disadvantage against DePaul’s taller players. Additionally, Epps has struggled with injuries and illnesses throughout the season, which raises questions about his stamina during this crucial game. However, the team’s younger players, like Drew Fielder, are stepping up, as seen in his 40 minutes of play against Villanova, where he contributed seven rebounds and four assists.
DePaul Eyes Second Consecutive Win
On the other side of the court, the DePaul Blue Demons (12-18) are also looking to finish strong. They recently celebrated a victory over Providence, edging them out with an 80-77 score. Leading the way for DePaul is guard CJ Gunn, who averages 12.2 points per game, and he will be crucial in this matchup against Georgetown. However, the Blue Demons are not without their own issues; their starting point guard, Conor Enright, is sidelined for the season due to a shoulder injury, which has certainly impacted their depth and strategy.
Looking Ahead to the Big East Tournament
This game not only serves as a regular-season finale but also sets the stage for a potential rematch in the first round of the Big East Tournament on March 12th, where the Hoyas and Blue Demons could see each other again almost immediately after this game. A win for Georgetown would boost their confidence significantly going into the tournament. Conversely, if DePaul can secure a victory, they may gain a psychological edge heading into that possible rematch.
Key Statistics and Matchup Details
| Team | Record | Last Game | Leading Scorer | Points Per Game |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Georgetown Hoyas | 17-13 | Won vs. Villanova (75-73) | Jayden Epps | 18.5 |
| DePaul Blue Demons | 12-18 | Won vs. Providence (80-77) | CJ Gunn | 12.2 |
As the teams prepare for the battle in Chicago, the energy from the fans and the stakes of the game only add to the excitement. Both teams have a lot to prove, and with so much on the line, it will surely be a matchup worth watching!
