Dawgs Set to Face Rust College

Game 25: Fisk University Bulldogs (8-17, 6-9 HBCUAC) at Rust College Bearcats (7-14, 4-11 HBCUAC)

Date/Time: Saturday February 8, 2025, 3 p.m. (CST)

Watch: UEN Network

Location: Holly Springs, MS. – Rust College

HOLLY SPRINGS, Miss. (February 7, 2025) – After a tough overtime loss at Wilberforce, the Fisk University Bulldogs are gearing up for another challenging game. This time, they will travel to Mississippi to face the Rust College Bearcats, a team currently riding a wave of momentum.

Rust College Bearcats are in the midst of a three-game winning streak, during which they have shown their prowess on the court. Notably, they have secured victories against Talladega College and Arkansas Baptist College. These two teams have maintained a 4-0 record this season against Fisk, highlighting the formidable challenge that lies ahead for the Bulldogs.

The Bearcats, on the other hand, will aim to extend their winning streak and maintain their momentum going into the postseason. Their recent performances have been impressive, and they will be looking to capitalize on their current form to secure another victory.

"This is a true test of resilience and strategy," said Fisk head coach Jeremiah Crutcher. "The loss at Wilberforce was a setback, but it has also provided valuable lessons and motivation us. Rust is playing really good now and they are at home. We better be ready."

This matchup promises to be an exciting and intense battle, with both teams eager to prove themselves. For the Bulldogs, it is an opportunity to bounce back and demonstrate their capability to compete against strong opponents. For the Bearcats, it is a chance to reinforce their winning streak and continue their upward trajectory this season.

Key Matchup

The Bearcats held Talladega to 37 points the last time out. Their balanced attack on offense is led by Isaih McCallum's 13.4 points per game. Jordan Fordyce is right behind him at 12.4. Fisk will have to play solid, because Rust plays with a "pick your poison" approach.

WMG Pick2Click

Perimeter shooting has been a strong suit for Fisk. In the first game, the Bulldogs sank 14 three pointers. Rust will most likely play tough at the three-point line. Look for Mitch Seay to use his slashing ability to get to the rim.

Dawgs at a Glance

Holly Springs Homecoming

Over the years, the state of Mississippi has been a hotbed for Fisk men's basketball players. Hall of Fame athletic director and coach Dr. Larry Glover hails from the state and focused on players from Mississippi and Memphis. Holly Springs is near Memphis. Former basketball player and current grad assistant Mekhi Yant is from Jackson, Mississippi and freshman Joshua Thompson Jr. is from Memphis.

Don't Panic

At the press conference to announce Jeremiah Crutcher as the new coach, he told the Fisk faithful to be patient and don't panic. Crutcher has used the don't panic mantra all season. His thoughts are not to get too high when you win, and two low when you lose.

Cockrill Lives Up to Nickname

Nashville native Doyel Cockrill III was given the nickname "City Hero". His battles against Oakland University point guard Jaylon Jones since they were in middle school are still talked about by basketball savants in the city. The Cumberland University transfer has lived up to the hero name since donning the blue and gold of Fisk. He has earned conference weekly honors five times this season. He is second in the conference, eight behind teammate Justin McNelkan in three pointers made with 68 .

Coming From the Ashes

Grad student Michael Ashley made a last-minute decision to enroll into graduate school and continue his college career. His decision to come back has put him in great company. His fifth year has allowed him a chance to be an 1,000-1,000 career player in points and rebounds.

Famous Grandfather

Junior Lucious Jackson is one of the top defenders on the team. His famous grandfather Luke Jackson was also a defensive stopper when he played in the NBA for the Philadelphia 76ers. The elder Jackson was the fourth pick in the 1964 NBA Draft and won an NBA title in 1967 playing on the same frontline as Wilt Chamberlain.

UP NEXT: The Bulldogs will be back home to finish the regular season on a two game homestand. On Saturday they will honor their seniors against Wilberforce.