COLUMBUS – Columbus State men's basketball returns to action after a week away from play, hosting Francis Marion (S.C.) on Tuesday night.
 
The Cougars (5-1) welcome the Patriots (3-5) to the Frank G. Lumpkin, Jr. Center for the 2024-25 home opener and a rematch of Nov. 13's matchup in Florence, S.C. Francis Marion took the win earlier this season in an 85-76 ballgame.
 
Scouting the Patriots
 
Since defeating the Cougars, FMU has gone 3-2 with losses against Lander (S.C.), No. 11 North Georgia, and Young Harris (Ga.). The Patriots are averaging 80.8 points per game while shooting for 45.5% from the field, 27% from three, and 63.6% from the foul line.
 
Jordan Simpson leads the way with an average of 16.1 points per contest in eight appearances. Ibrahim Wattara follows with an average of 12.1 points per game while Adonis Cole averages 12.0 points and a team-leading 13.0 rebounds per game. In addition, Cole dishes out an average of five assists per game and captures four steals per contest.
 
Previewing the Cougars
 
Columbus State looks to build upon the success of the 83-66 victory at West Florida a week ago. Jarrett Adderton dropped 29 points against the Argonauts and leads the Cougars with an average of 20.7 points per game, shooting for 55.4% from the field.
 
Jehloni James is also a key contributor on the offensive end of the floor, averaging 15.7 points per game. In addition, James leads off the glass with an average of six rebounds per game followed by Adderton's average of 5.3 rebounds.
 
As a team, CSU averages 80.7 points per game with an 8.8 scoring margin. The Cougars are shooting for 47.5% from the field, 35.2% from three, and 71.1% from the foul line. CSU's defense produces 5.7 steals per game and scores an average of 12.7 points off turnovers.
 
Follow Along and Support
 
The Cougars tip at 6 p.m. ET from the Lumpkin Center. After the game, Columbus State will host the annual tree lighting outside in the front of the gymnasium. Links to follow along can be found here:  Live Stats | Live Video