Coming off back-to-back home victories, Holy Cross men’s basketball will travel to Odle Arena today to take on Taylor University. The Saints (4-1) have found an early rhythm behind an efficient offense and rebounding dominance, while the Trojans (3-1) enter with one of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics’ most balanced offenses.
Holy Cross has averaged 81.4 points per game through their five contests, shooting 45.6% from the field and 33% from three. The Saints have controlled the paint with 42.0 rebounds per game and a +9.6 rebound margin, which has been a key factor in their success. In their most
recent game, a 92-88 win over Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Holy Cross sank eight threes and held off a late rally to secure its second straight home win.
The Saints’ balance has been evident. They averaged 16.4 assists per game while committing 11.2 turnovers, demonstrating efficient ball movement and discipline. Their free throw percentage of 73.7% also suggests an ability to capitalize on their opponents’ mistakes — an edge that could be vital against a talented Taylor team.
Taylor enters the matchup averaging 84.3 points on 43.5% shooting, with 30.6% accuracy from deep. The Trojans attack the boards harder than Holy Cross, gathering 47.0 rebounds per game, 16.3 of which are offensive. Their dominance on the glass has allowed them to pose a strong +14.3 rebound margin and generate second-chance opportunities consistently. Taylor also averages 18.3 assists per game, which fuels an offense that spreads the floor and attacks mismatches.
Defensively, Holy Cross allows 73.0 points per game and holds opponents to 39.8% shooting. Taylor surrenders 73.8 points on 41.2% opponent shooting. The Saints force just under five steals per game, and containing Taylor’s open looks from the perimeter could dictate the contest’s pace.
However, the key matchup will come from under the boards. If Holy Cross can neutralize Taylor’s rebounding edge and control the glass on defense, it can limit transition opportunities and disrupt the Trojans’ rhythm. Conversely, if Taylor continues to dominate second-chance opportunities, its offensive balance could prove to be difficult to contain.
Tip-off between the Saints and the Trojans is set for 7 p.m. today at Odle Arena in Upland, Indiana.
