The North Florida Ospreys are set to face off against the formidable Lipscomb Bison in a pivotal Atlantic Sun Conference game this Saturday, January 4th, at 2 p.m. The match will take place at UNF Arena and will be streamed live on ESPN+. This encounter comes after a challenging start to conference play for the Ospreys, who narrowly lost their previous game to Austin Peay. Coach Driscoll emphasized the importance of focusing on the immediate challenge, highlighting Lipscomb's strong defensive tactics and offensive versatility. The Bison have been projected as the top team in the conference, presenting a significant test for North Florida.
Preparing for the Challenge Ahead
The Ospreys are gearing up for a tough matchup with Lipscomb, a team that has consistently excelled in both defense and offense. Coach Driscoll acknowledged the rapid turnaround required after a recent loss, noting that every league game is crucial for positioning within the Atlantic Sun standings. Lipscomb's reputation as a preseason favorite adds pressure to this weekend's contest. The Bison's experienced lineup and aggressive defensive style pose unique challenges for North Florida. To counter this, the Ospreys must adapt quickly and execute their game plan effectively.
Lipscomb's roster boasts several standout players, including Jacob Ognacevic, who averages an impressive 18.6 points and 7.3 rebounds per game. The Bison's ability to outscore opponents by 11 points per game underscores their dominance. Coach Driscoll highlighted the need for his team to neutralize Lipscomb's swarming defense, which prevents effective ball movement on offense. Additionally, the Ospreys must capitalize on their own strengths, such as their high-scoring offense and efficient bench play, to secure a win. The historical rivalry between these two teams adds an extra layer of intensity, with North Florida looking to build on past successes against Lipscomb.
A Season of Milestones and Achievements
The 2024-25 season has been marked by numerous milestones for the Ospreys, particularly in non-conference play. North Florida finished with a commendable 7-6 record, securing victories over two Power Four teams within the first week—a historic feat for the program. These wins earned them recognition as NCAA Team of the Week and garnered votes in the Associated Press Top 25 poll. Freshman Josh Harris has been instrumental, showcasing exceptional scoring ability early in the season. His performances have already broken records for UNF freshmen, setting the stage for a promising career.
The Ospreys' success extends beyond individual achievements, with the team ranking highly in various statistical categories within the Atlantic Sun Conference. They lead in three-point attempts and made threes per game, reflecting their emphasis on perimeter shooting. Key players like Jaylen Smith and Jasai Miles have also earned all-league honors, solidifying their roles as critical contributors. The team's depth and experience, with five returning starters and eight newcomers, provide a balanced mix of veteran leadership and fresh talent. As they prepare for the upcoming game against Lipscomb, the Ospreys aim to leverage these strengths to achieve another memorable victory.