The South Alabama Jaguars (9-7, 2-1 SBC) look to end their five-game road losing streak in a matchup against the Little Rock Trojans (6-10, 1-2 SBC) at Jack Stephens Center. The game is scheduled to begin at 4 p.m. ET on Saturday, January 12, 2019.
South Alabama Jaguars vs. Little Rock Trojans Free Prediction
In the Jaguars’ last contest, they were defeated by the Arkansas State Red Wolves, 66-65. One of Arkansas State’s largest strengths was getting to the free throw line. They had 26 free throw attempts, while South Alabama had just 13. Rodrick Sikes was the game’s high scorer with 24 points on 9-for-20 shooting.
The Trojans were victorious over the Troy Trojans in their last contest, 73-59. Little Rock’s 15.5 turnover percentage was their biggest strength over Troy, who had a mark of 28.2. Markquis Nowell was Little Rock’s high scorer with 16 points on 5-for-12 shooting from the field.
After the Jaguars won the only contest against the Trojans last season, 73-56, this will be the first matchup of the year between these two teams. The Jaguars had a much better offensive rebounding percentage (24.1 vs. 15.2) and had a much better effective field goal percentage (0.573 vs. 0.450).
Both teams have had a player take their game to the next level over their last five games. Trhae Mitchell (18 points,9.6 rebounds,5.0 assists,2.6 blocks,1.6 steals) has been great for the Jaguars while Nowell (14 points,5.0 assists,2.4 steals) has made great contributions to the Trojans.
This contest should be a battle of opposite styles. Little Rock has preferred to play up-tempo (32nd in possessions per game), while South Alabama has been more methodical (173rd in possessions per game).
South Alabama Jaguars vs. Little Rock Trojans Free Pick
Free Basketball Pick: SU Winner – Little Rock, ATS Winner – Little Rock, O/U – Under
Notes
Betting Notes:
South Alabama ranks ninth in three pointers allowed per game (17.4) while Little Rock ranks 247th (27.4).
The Jaguars average 15.4 assists per game, which ranks 61st in the NCAA. The Trojans rank 195th in assists allowed per game (15.0).
South Alabama ranks 28th in blocks per game (4.9) while Little Rock ranks 115th (3.1).
The Trojans rank 150th in rebounds per game (35.7) while the Jaguars rank 193rd in rebounds allowed per game (37.0).
Bettings Trends:
The Jaguars’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 8.4, up from 3.8 for the season.
During their last five games, the Trojans have scored an average of 80.2 points per game (2.7 above their season average) and allowed an average of 86.4 points per game (8.5 above their season average).
+++++
