Hampton Pirates avoid upset by Coppin State

Photo: Michael Freeman led the Pirates in scoring with 19 points and 9 rebounds. The 6-8 sophomore star forward is from Alexandria, Va./Brewster Academy.

HAMPTON - Scoring was at a serious premium, but Hampton University's men's basketball team converted a few more opportunities than Coppin State. The Pirates held off the Eagles late in a close Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference contest Saturday night to win 56-54 at HU Convocation Center. Hampton (11-6, 5-0) remained unbeaten in the MEAC, Coppin State (4-16, 0-6) winless.

Mike Freeman's 19 points inside and nine rebounds were the difference-maker for Hampton against an Eagles team that tried to slow down the Pirates' running game. HU coach Kevin Nickelberry had emphasized post play in his pregame preparation.

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The long anticipated clash for MEAC supremacy is scheduled for Monday with Morgan State University visiting the Hampton Pirates.