The Manhattan Jaspers (13-12, 8-8 MAAC) are set to face the Canisius Golden Griffins (3-24, 3-13 MAAC) on Friday, February 28, 2025, at 7:00 PM ET at Koessler Athletic Center in Buffalo, New York. This Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) matchup sees Manhattan fighting to solidify its conference tournament seeding, while Canisius looks to snap a rough season-long slump.
Team Performance and Recent Form
Manhattan Jaspers
Manhattan has been inconsistent throughout the season but is coming off a 74-71 loss to Quinnipiac, where Wesley Robinson led the team with 18 points, including four three-pointers. Devin Dinkins also played well, adding 17 points and 6 assists.
The Jaspers’ offensive efficiency has been solid, ranking 2nd in the MAAC in three-point shooting. However, their defense has been suspect at times, allowing an average of 73.2 points per game—which ranks in the bottom half of the conference.
Canisius Golden Griffins
Canisius has endured a difficult season, currently sitting at the bottom of the MAAC standings. However, they snapped an eight-game losing streak in their last outing, securing a 93-88 win over Siena. Paul McMillan IV was the standout performer with 21 points and 8 rebounds, leading the Griffins to one of their few victories this season.
Despite their struggles, Canisius is an excellent perimeter shooting team, leading the MAAC in three-point percentage (37.5%). Their defense, however, has been their downfall, as they rank last in the conference in points allowed per game (78.1).
Head-to-Head Matchup
This is the second meeting between Manhattan and Canisius this season. Manhattan won the first matchup, 77-68, on January 14, 2025.
Historically, the Jaspers have dominated this matchup, winning seven of the last ten meetings. Canisius will need to limit turnovers and control the pace if they hope to turn the tables at home.
Key Players to Watch
Manhattan Jaspers
- Wesley Robinson – A dangerous perimeter shooter, averaging 15.8 points per game, who leads the team in three-pointers made.
- Devin Dinkins – The Jaspers’ floor general, contributing 12.5 points and 4.8 assists per game, making him a key playmaker.
Canisius Golden Griffins
- Paul McMillan IV – The Griffins’ leading scorer, averaging 16.2 points per game, and coming off a big performance in their last win.
- Frank Mitchell – A strong rebounder, putting up 11.8 points and 7.3 rebounds per game, who will be key in battling Manhattan’s frontcourt.
Game Outlook and Prediction
Manhattan enters this game as the clear favorite, given their superior record, better defensive efficiency, and stronger shooting ability. However, Canisius’ hot three-point shooting and newfound confidence after their last win could make this game more competitive than expected.
If Manhattan executes on defense and controls the tempo, they should come away with the victory. But if Canisius gets hot from beyond the arc, they could make things interesting.
Prediction: Manhattan Jaspers 78, Canisius Golden Griffins 70
Broadcast Info: Fans can watch the game live on ESPN3 at 7:00 PM ET.
