Getting to Know Tennessee State

1. Tennessee State is 7-1. Are they that good?

There are worse ways to start the season than 7-1. The Tigers of Tennessee State’s lone loss on the season was at the hands of Vanderbilt. Leading the way for the Tigers is the trio of Wayne Martin, Tahjere McCall, and Jordan Reed. All three of these players are seniors. Their experience is why they have gotten off to such a fast start.

On the season the Tigers have done an excellent job of scoring (73.6) and rebounding (39.3) the basketball. A big weapon that the Tigers use on offense is the ability to knock down the 3. On the season, they are shooting 40.5% (47-116) from beyond the arc.

2. NC State needs to watch out for Wayne Martin.

Standing 6-7 and weighting 237 pounds, Martin may be slightly undersized for a big, but what he lacks in heigh he makes up for with heart and hustle. Martin is relentless and is averaging a double-double (13.1 PPG and 10 RPG.) At the high post, Martin likes to face his man up and uses his quickness to beat him to the basket. He also has the strength to finish through contact. This is a guy who does all the little things and it ends up really helping put the Tigers in a position to win.

3. Tennessee St. has leadership and experience galore.

Tennessee State has had such a good start to their season because they are full of upperclassmen who do not shrink in tough spots. Of their 7 wins, 6 of them have come on the road. That in itself is an impressive feat. Led by three seniors, the Tigers are looking to make this season their most memorable one yet. Coach Dana Ford is on record praising team’s effort and how they have held teams to 39% shooting. Not only are they causing team to shoot a low percentage, but Ford highlighted the fact they are limiting teams to one shot. Tennessee State wants to close out their non-conference slate on a positive note. That way, they can have momentum leading into their conference schedule.

For a better idea of NC State’s next foe, check out the video below.