Main Story

Fayetteville State opens its 2026-27 women’s basketball season Friday at Shippensburg in the CIAA/PSAC Challenge. The Broncos aim to turn the defensive pressure and comeback play they showed against Division I North Carolina Central into a road win, while Shippensburg brings a veteran lineup and home-court advantage.

By the Numbers
  • Fayetteville State lost its exhibition at NC Central, 60-56.
  • The Broncos forced 31 turnovers and recorded 12 steals in the exhibition.
  • Samiyah Barker led Fayetteville State with 14 points; Ameya Brown and Jahniya Marion added 11 apiece.
  • Shippensburg returns 9 players from last season, including 3 starters.
  • Michelle Olak averaged 11.6 points and 5.6 rebounds per game last season; Melana Eyer averaged 11.1 points.
Yes, But

Fayetteville State showed it can recover from a large deficit and pressure opponents, but sustaining its offense for four quarters remains a key test. Shippensburg’s returning experience, size and home-court edge could challenge the Broncos’ ability to force turnovers and control the paint.

State of Play
  • Both teams are playing their first official game of the season.
  • Fayetteville State is led by coach Tyreece Brown and enters with ambitions of contending in the CIAA.
  • Shippensburg adds a six-player recruiting class, highlighted by freshman Alainah McKavish, a 2,000-point high school scorer.
What’s Next

The teams meet Friday, Nov. 13, at 6 p.m. in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania. The opener offers an early test of whether Fayetteville State can bring its exhibition defensive intensity to the regular season and earn a quality road win.

Bottom Line

The matchup comes down to whether Fayetteville State’s pressure defense can disrupt Shippensburg’s veteran core without sacrificing offensive consistency or control of the boards.