Chicago State’s basketball season has been a rollercoaster ride, filled with standout performances, tough battles, and players stepping up in key moments. While the team has faced its fair share of challenges, several athletes have consistently made an impact on both ends of the court. From scoring leaders to defensive anchors, let’s take a deep dive into the top performers for the Cougars this season.
Where The Team Stands
The Chicago State Cougars have had a tough season, sitting at 3-20 overall and 7th in the NEC, but they’ve shown a lot of promise. After a rough start, they’ve picked up key wins, including an overtime victory against Long Island University.
Despite the challenges, individual performances have stood out. Several players have stepped up in crucial moments, keeping the team competitive. Their upcoming college basketball matchups and team and player performances will be key in shaping the rest of the season.
Jalen Forrest: The Engine of the Offense
When it comes to putting points on the board, Jalen Forrest has been the go-to guy for Chicago State. Leading the team with 10.9 points per game, Forrest has shown his ability to create scoring opportunities both inside the paint and beyond the arc. He’s not the flashiest player on the court, but his consistency has made him a reliable offensive weapon.
What sets Forrest apart isn’t just his scoring but his ability to crash the boards. Averaging 4.8 rebounds per game, he’s one of the best rebounding guards on the team. His aggressive approach allows him to battle taller defenders, securing second-chance opportunities and keeping plays alive.
Gabe Spinelli: The Playmaker
While Forrest is the scoring leader, Gabe Spinelli has been the primary facilitator for the Cougars. Averaging 2.5 assists per game, he plays a crucial role in setting up teammates and keeping the offense moving. His court vision and ability to break down defenses allow him to create open shots, even if his scoring numbers (9.2 points per game) aren’t as high as Forrest’s.
Spinelli has also shown flashes of defensive prowess, contributing 1.2 steals per game. His active hands and ability to read passing lanes are key factors in transition opportunities. Shooting-wise, he’s been one of the more efficient players, hitting 40.5% from the field and a solid 40.0% from three-point range.
One area where Spinelli could improve is ball security. Averaging 2.3 turnovers per game, he occasionally forces plays that result in giveaways. However, his ability to dictate the tempo and get others involved makes him one of the team’s most valuable assets.
Matthew Robinson: The Defensive Spark
Defense often gets overshadowed by scoring, but Matthew Robinson has been a game-changer on that side of the floor. Leading the team with 1.5 steals per game, Robinson thrives on disrupting opposing offenses. His quick reflexes and defensive instincts allow him to pressure ball handlers and force turnovers.
While his offensive numbers are modest (6.0 points per game on 35.3% shooting), his contributions go beyond the stat sheet. Robinson’s energy and hustle make him crucial in Chicago State’s defensive schemes. Whether contesting shots or diving for loose balls, his effort level remains unmatched.
CJ Delancy: The Rim Protector
In the paint, CJ Delancy has been the team’s primary shot-blocker. Though his 0.6 blocks per game might not seem overwhelming, his presence forces opponents to think twice before attacking the rim. At 6’9″, Delancy uses his size effectively to alter shots and provide interior defense.
Offensively, he’s still developing, averaging 1.9 points per game on 31.6% shooting. However, his 2.4 rebounds per game and ability to contest shots make him an important role player. If he continues to improve on the offensive end, he could become an even bigger factor for the Cougars.
Noble Crawford: The Versatile Forward
Few players on the team bring the level of versatility that Noble Crawford does. Averaging 9.1 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game, he impacts the game in multiple ways. Whether scoring, rebounding, or distributing, Crawford finds ways to contribute.
Shooting 39.8% from the field, he has been one of the team’s steadier scorers. His ability to stretch the floor with a 34.2% three-point percentage makes him a threat from deep. Additionally, his 1.2 steals per game show his defensive activity, making him valuable on both ends.
What to Expect in the Coming Games
As the season progresses, Chicago State will look to build on its strengths while addressing key weaknesses. The team has shown flashes of brilliance, but consistency will be the deciding factor in their success. Players like Jalen Forrest and Gabe Spinelli must continue leading the offense, while Matthew Robinson’s defensive energy will be crucial in keeping games competitive.
One major storyline to watch is how the Cougars handle their upcoming matchups, especially against more formidable opponents. Improving shooting efficiency and reducing turnovers will be key to turning close games into wins. At the same time, their defensive intensity—led by Robinson and CJ Delancy—will need to hold up against teams with strong offensive firepower.
For fans tracking the team’s performance, sportsbooks like FanDuel offer an additional perspective on how Chicago State performs game to game. NCAAB odds by FanDuel reflect how oddsmakers assess their chances, factoring in recent form, opponent strength, and other key metrics. While the Cougars have been competitive, the betting lines will reflect how they’re expected to fare in each contest.
Final Thoughts
The Chicago State Cougars have leaned on key players this season. Jalen Forrest’s scoring, Gabe Spinelli’s playmaking, and Matthew Robinson’s defense have been vital, while CJ Delancy, Noble Crawford, and Troy McKoy Jr. have provided depth.
There’s room for improvement, especially in shooting and turnovers, but this group has kept the team competitive. Their continued development will be crucial in finishing the season strong.
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