The Loyola Marymount Lions (11-1) will try to lengthen their eight-game winning streak against the UC Riverside Highlanders (4-8) at Student Recreation Center. The game gets underway at 8 p.m. ET on Saturday, December 22, 2018.
Loyola Marymount Lions at UC Riverside Highlanders ATS Prediction
The last time the Lions played, they dismantled the Westcliff Warriors, 75-43. The Lions had a much better offensive rebounding percentage (45.9 vs. 17.6) and had a much better turnover percentage (16.3 vs. 27.8). With 11 points on 4-for-12 shooting, James Batemon was the top scorer from either team.
The Highlanders lost to the Oregon State Beavers in their last game, 72-59. Oregon State’s 9.9 turnover percentage was their largest strength over UC Riverside, who had a mark of 15.4. With 20 points on 7-for-11 shooting, Dikymbe Martin was the top scorer from either team.
The ineffective offense of UC Riverside will face off against the top-notch defense of Loyola Marymount. The Highlanders rank 322nd in offensive efficiency, while the Lions are 12th in defensive efficiency. The Lions figure to have the advantage on that side of the ball. Additionally, the Lions, who rank 36th in offensive rebounding percentage (35.6 percent), will try to exploit the Highlanders, who rank 265th in defensive rebounding percentage (73.5 percent).
Batemon has averaged 0 points over the last five games for Loyola Marymount.
After the Lions won the only game against the Highlanders last season, 76-64, these teams will meet for the first time this year. The Lions’ turnover percentage was their largest strength over the Highlanders. Loyola Marymount had a rate of 12.5, while UC Riverside posted a mark of 25.3.
Loyola Marymount Lions vs. UC Riverside Highlanders Pick
Prediction: SU Winner – Loyola Marymount, ATS Winner – Loyola Marymount, O/U – Over
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Notes
Betting Notes:
Loyola Marymount ranks 64th in steals per game (7.3) while UC Riverside ranks 106th in steals allowed per game (6.3).
Bettings Trends:
The Lions’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 16.0, up from 13.3 for the season.
During their last five games, the Highlanders have scored an average of 58.2 points per game (6.5 below their season average) and allowed an average of 68.4 points per game (0.3 above their season average).
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