Buffalo Bulls Men’s Basketball Game Preview: Kent State Golden Flashes

The Bulls are back in action tonight, after coming off arguably their worst game this season. After losing to NIU, the worst team in the MAC, the Bulls will need to rebound quickly, as they have a rematch with Kent State, the team that previously beat them. Buffalo clearly has a lot to work on in this upcoming game, which includes finishing a game strong and playing with energy. The entire NIU game, UB looked off, and it showed in the final. CJ Massinburg had a tough game getting shots, so look for him to work extra hard tonight to get open in front of the home fans.

As for Kent State, they’ve been in a free fall since beating the Bulls, losing three in a row since their big victory. This is the type of game where if they lose, their season could keep spiraling down with no recovery possible, so look for the Flashes to come out just as hard as the Bulls. Jaylin Walker will look to create problems as he always does and Adonis De La Rosa will try and control the paint and put the Bulls in to foul trouble. Overall, this should be a physical, emotional, and rowdy game. Let’s take a look at what else to watch for.

What to Watch For

Nick Perkins

Everyone remembers how the first game ended between these teams. Perkins and Walker were both ejected for a quasi fight situation. Kent State always seems to be good at getting under the Bulls, and Perkins, skin. If he can maintain his head tonight and have a big game, he will be the one with the last laugh.

CJ Massinburg

I mentioned it earlier but this is worth repeating. Massinburg was tough to find out there last Saturday, and we just aren’t used to seeing that. I’m hoping that the home fans will help re energize him and get him back to his lethal shooting. This team needs Massinburg to be their anchor, and I think you see that tonight.

The Emotions

This game will be emotional. As a True Blue member, this game is the second most heated for me behind Akron. Kent and Buffalo have not been very friendly since the “where are the cheerleaders” game that was showcased by Trainwreck Sports a few weeks ago. A lot of tonight will be focused on who comes out disciplined, and who can keep their emotions in check for 40 minutes. I hope we don’t have any extra curricular activity, but you never know with these squads.

Final Thoughts

I really think the Bulls need to be home for a little. Playing 4/5 on the road is always going to be tough, no matter who you are. The positive? The Bulls finish with 4/5 at home starting tonight. This is the perfect time to build momentum before Cleveland. Playing in front of the home fans is a way to get energized, and if they start to find their mojo again, I’d tell the rest of the MAC to look out. Tonight should be fun and I hope everyone enjoys it, and as always, go Bulls!