PRAIRIE VIEW, TX — The Prairie View A&M Panthers are gearing up for a critical encounter on Sunday, December 22, 2024, as they face off against the Rice Owls in an effort to turn their season around and secure their first win against this opponent. Led by Head Coach Byron Smith, the Panthers, with a current record of 1-10, are deeply focused on breaking their all-time losing streak against Rice, who currently stands at a solid 8-4 under Coach Rob Lanier.

In their previous meeting on December 20, 2023, at Tudor Fieldhouse, the Panthers faced a tough 82-56 loss against the Owls, continuing Rice's domination in the series history to 9-0. This upcoming clash presents not just an opportunity for a win but a significant chance for Panther redemption and a positive pivot in their challenging season.

The Panthers will be relying heavily on their key players including junior guard Nick Anderson, who leads the team with an average of 19.0 points per game. Other significant contributors include graduate student guard Tanahj Pettway, averaging 14.5 ppg, sophomore forward Marcel Bryant with 10.7 ppg, and graduate student guard Jordan Tillmon, contributing 9.9 ppg. Together, they form a formidable lineup aiming to challenge the Owls' strong defense.

Rice's formidable lineup, paced by standout players such as graduate student guard Trae Broadnax with an impressive 14.2 ppg and guard/forward Kellen Amos averaging 10.3 ppg, will certainly test the Panthers' resolve. However, the Prairie View A&M squad, fueled by their home crowd and the strategic acumen of Coach Smith, is poised to make this face-off a memorable one.

As game day approaches, the stakes are high, and the Panthers are more determined than ever to showcase their skills, resilience, and the spirit of Prairie View A&M. All eyes will be on this eagerly anticipated showdown as the Panthers strive to rewrite the narrative of this rivalry.

Keep up with all the latest news and information for PVAMU athletics by following pvpanthers.com as well as through Twitter via the PVAMU general sports account (@PVAMUPanthers). You can also follow along on Instagram.com/pvamupanthers.

#pvamuwball