Boston College Aims to Avoid New Hampshire Upset in Sunday Matchup

Boston College looks to maintain its perfect start this Sunday when the Eagles host New Hampshire in Chestnut Hill, Mass.

The Eagles currently hold a 3-0 record following a dominant 82-54 win over Maryland Eastern Shore. While the matchup favors the home team, there is a historical shadow hanging over the court in Chestnut Hill. The Wildcats pulled off a 74-71 overtime upset against Boston College in 2022 despite entering that contest as heavy underdogs.

Coach Luke Murray will likely use that memory to keep his squad focused. The Eagles' recent performance showed improvements in areas that have previously hindered their momentum, particularly on the glass.

“Really pleased with the rebounding, because that’s been a sort of sticking point for us through our first couple games,” Murray said.

The statistical impact of that effort was immediate. After missing 31 shots in their last outing, the Eagles secured 19 offensive rebounds to stay in contention. This rebounding dominance was reflected in a 42-20 total advantage over Maryland Eastern Shore.

While Money Williams remains the primary offensive engine for Boston College with 21.7 points per game, the recent victory highlighted a broader scoring threat. Luke Hunger led the team with 20 points against Maryland Eastern Shore, demonstrating that the Eagles can lean on multiple contributors when needed.

Colby Duggan also provided a spark from beyond the arc, making 4 of 7 three-point attempts to finish with 14 points. “I don’t think there’s a better feeling than winning, and seeing shots go down in a win,” Duggan said.

New Hampshire enters the game with a 3-1 record. Their season success includes victories over Brown, Rider, and Division III Thomas College. The Wildcats’ strategy relies heavily on continuity, as they returned three starters from their previous campaign: John Squire, Davide Poser, and Tyler Bike.

New Hampshire coach Nathan Davis emphasized rebounding.

“To have a few guys back who know what’s going on, know the expectations, has been a luxury,” Davis said.

Squire and Bike are the team’s leading scorers this season, averaging 14.0 and 13.7 points per game, respectively.

“I think we have a chance to be a really good rebounding team, and we need to go out there and get ourselves more opportunities, more possessions and more shots at the basket.” Nathan Davis

The Wildcats’ ability to compete will be tested against a Boston College unit that has recently shown improvement in its rebounding. Whether New Hampshire can replicate the grit of their 2022 upset or if the Eagles’ rebounding improvements will help them in Sunday’s tip-off remains the central question.