The Cal State San Marcos Men's Basketball Team hasn't taken very long to put themselves in some very big games. The first year program has faced some tough competition already in its first month, starting with its program debut in November against a reloaded San Diego State team coming off a NCAA Sweet Sixteen appearance. The schedule hasn't lightened up much since.
 
The Cougars have already played two tight games against nearby NCAA Division II foe Cal Baptist, and have taken on 3 NAIA top-25 teams. CSUSM has held their own against these more established teams, posting a 5-4 record overall, and has even knocked off NAIA #2 ranked Mountain State (WV).
 
However, the Cougars will face an even tougher opponent Tuesday, as they host an 8-0 Concordia team that has already defeated 3 top-25 opponents. The Eagles, rated #4 in the preseason, have come out of the gates smoking in 2011, averaging over 95 points per game, making them the highest scoring team in the NAIA. But it's their 20-point average win margin, in combination with a loaded schedule has carried them to the #1 spot in the latest rankings.
 
The Cougars, who only been giving up 63.3 points per game this season, will look to limit the high powered Concordia offense with strong defense inside from post players Alpha Ndayie and AJ Chaimberlain. The Cougars will likely turn to senior guard Tim Steed (17.3 p/g) to put points on the board, as he can both penetrate the defense and shoot from the outside.
 
The Cougars are also counting on the precise passing of point guard Danny Redmon, the quickness of Jamel McGuire, and the strong play of Jacob Ranger off the bench to keep the CSUSM offense rolling.
 
Tip-off will be at 7:30pm at Mira Costa College in Oceanside. Admission is free for students with ID, and tickets can be purchased at the gate. Adult tickets are $7, while seniors (55+) and children (12 and under) are $5.