The New Jersey college basketball season is tipping off in electrifying fashion. Seton Hall University is hosting Saint Peter’s University in Newark for the season opener on Monday at 7:30 p.m. EST.
Fans are eager to see if the Pirates can turn the page after a rough 2022–23 campaign. Meanwhile, the Peacocks hope to build momentum after a mixed season in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference.
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This face-off sets the tone for both teams’ seasons. It’s also fueling local sports buzz across the region—especially in Jersey City, home to Saint Peter’s.
Seton Hall’s Quest for Redemption
Seton Hall Pirates enter this year determined to erase memories of last season’s 7-25 record. With just five wins at home in Newark, the Pirates struggled on both ends of the court.
Their scoring average of 61.6 points per game put them near the bottom of the conference. Opponents often took advantage, regularly breaking the 70-point mark.
In preseason training, Seton Hall has focused on boosting offensive efficiency and sharpening ball movement. They’re also working hard to improve perimeter shooting.
Veterans and new recruits alike feel the pressure to turn things around. Fans want more, and honestly, who can blame them?
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Defensive Challenges from Last Season
Last year, the Pirates struggled to lock down opponents, giving up an average of 70.2 points per game. This season, they’ve reworked their defensive strategy to put more pressure on opposing guards.
They also want to improve rebounding and cut off second-chance opportunities. It’s a tall order, but not impossible if everyone buys in.
Saint Peter’s: Steady But Unpredictable
The Saint Peter’s Peacocks are looking to take advantage of Seton Hall’s recent struggles. Last season, they finished with a 7-13 conference record—not exactly eye-popping—but showed real grit on defense by holding opponents to 65.8 points per game.
They shot 41.1% from the field. Still, their 6-10 road record exposed some inconsistency away from home.
Saint Peter’s fans in Jersey City will be watching closely to see if the team can bring more consistent offense. The squad prides itself on grit and hustle, and this season feels like a chance to climb the MAAC standings.
Keys to Victory for the Peacocks
Saint Peter’s needs to keep their defensive rotations tight and stay out of early foul trouble. If they can shoot efficiently and control the tempo, they’ve got a real shot to open the season with a win.
Why This Game Matters to Jersey City
For folks in Jersey City, this matchup means a little more. Saint Peter’s University sits right in the heart of the city, and it’s become a real source of civic pride.
The Peacocks’ performance in Newark could spark a wave of excitement this winter. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or just checking out things to do in Jersey City, catching a Peacock game is a great way to soak up the city’s spirit.
Visiting for the Game
If you’re coming from out of town, there’s no shortage of Jersey City hotels near Saint Peter’s campus and close to routes into Newark’s Prudential Center. Not sure where to stay in Jersey City? Downtown and Journal Square are both solid picks, with plenty of dining and entertainment nearby.
Exploring Jersey City Beyond Basketball
Basketball fans coming for the game might want to check out the vibrant city districts of Jersey City. There’s a lot more to see than just the court.
Exchange Place offers stunning waterfront views. Over in Bergen-Lafayette, you’ll stumble across some real cultural gems if you wander a bit.
Getting to Jersey City isn’t a hassle, either. Public transit, PATH trains, and ferries make it pretty easy to reach from Newark or New York City.
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