The Hartford Hawks (1-4) meet the Iona Gaels (1-2) in the MGM Resorts Main Event Middleweight at T-Mobile Arena. The game begins at 2 p.m. ET on Wednesday, November 21, 2018.
Hartford Hawks vs. Iona Gaels Free Prediction
The Hawks are hoping for a better outcome after their 72-65 loss to the Utah Valley Wolverines in their last game. Utah Valley’s 0.653 effective field goal percentage was their biggest advantage over Hartford, who had a rate of 0.427. The Wolverines’ mark was above their season average of 0.460, while the Hawks’ was below their season average of 0.498. J.R. Lynch was the top scorer from either team with 25 points on 7-for-15 shooting.
The last time the Gaels took the floor, they let one slip away to the Long Beach State 49ers, 86-85. Long Beach State’s offensive rebounding percentage was their largest strength over Iona. The 49ers had a rate of 34.6, while the Gaels posted a mark of 27.0. Iona’s Rickey McGill recorded 15 points in the contest.
This contest should be a battle of opposite tempos. Dating back to the 2017-18 season, Iona has preferred a fast-paced style of play (54th in possessions per game), while Hartford has been more half-court-oriented (288th in possessions per game). Furthermore, the Hawks, who rank 275th in free throw attempt (FTA) rate (0.211), could have a tough time getting to the line against the Gaels, who rank 53rd in opponents’ FTA rate (0.199).
Hartford Hawks vs. Iona Gaels Odds Pick
Prediction: SU Winner – Iona, O/U – Over
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Notes
Betting Notes (2017-Present):
Iona ranks 20th in steals allowed per game (5.0) while Hartford ranks 136th (6.1).
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