George Mason hosts Delaware Saturday with a chance to climb the CAA standings

George Mason is back in action Saturday against Delaware after playing three games in five days. They went  2-1 during that stretch and won the two road games. This game against the Blue Hens is important because a win can put the Patriots in second place in the conference standings. After watching ODU beat Drexel last night, it's obvious anything is possible and the final standings are anything but set at this point. With Jonathan Arledge in the starting lineup, Mason has looked more fluid on offense. They need that to continue and hopefully these last few games have helped solidify the ideal rotation for this group. Rebounding has been a big key lately, and they will be facing the CAA's second leader in that category in Jamelle Hagins (10.6 RPG). Delaware also has the conference's leading scorer, Devon Saddler. While they haven't played the best team basketball this season, the Blue Hens still have some guys who can hurt you. With the amount of individual performances that have beaten Mason's defense this year, those two names will be something to keep on eye on.

George Mason and Delaware get to the free-throw line more than any other teams in conference only games. So yes, expect to see another choppy game with a lot of fouls. Luckily Mason has been winning games like that recently. Mason has the edge in rebounding and overall effectiveness shooting from the field but they have already lost two conference games at home this season. If their efforts on the boards continue they should be in good shape for this one.

[Photo by John Powell]