It will be a battle between MAAC opponents when the Siena Saints (6-11, 1-3 MAAC) welcome the Niagara Purple Eagles (8-9, 1-3 MAAC) to the Times Union Center. The game gets underway at 7 p.m. ET on Thursday, January 17, 2019.
Niagara Purple Eagles vs. Siena Saints Free Prediction
In the Purple Eagles’ last outing, they were blown out by the Rider Broncs, 104-84. Rider’s 0.679 effective field goal percentage was their largest strength over Niagara, who had a rate of 0.529. The Broncs’ mark was above their season average of 0.512. James Towns had a solid game for Niagara, contributing 15 points, six assists and five rebounds.
The Saints lost a close one to the Monmouth Hawks in their last matchup, 63-60. One of Monmouth’s biggest strengths was their ability to convert at the free throw line. They were 14-17 (82.4 percent), while the Saints were just 4-14 (28.6 percent). Kevin Degnan put together a good performance for Siena, leading both teams in scoring with 17 points on 5-for-7 shooting.
Siena should be expected to protect the ball well in this contest. Siena ranks 53rd in the NCAA at avoiding errors (turnover percentage of 16.8 percent), while Niagara forces the 65th-fewest turnovers (17.4 percent).
After the Purple Eagles won the sole game against the Saints last season, 84-76, these teams will go head-to-head for the first time this year. Getting to the free throw line was one of Niagara’s biggest advantages. They had 25 free throw attempts, while Siena had just 12.
Niagara Purple Eagles vs. Siena Saints Free Pick
College Basketball Prediction: SU Winner – Siena, ATS Winner – Siena, O/U – Under
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Notes
Betting Notes:
Siena ranks 13th in blocks allowed per game (2.2) while Niagara ranks 83rd (3.2).
Bettings Trends:
The Purple Eagles’ average margin of defeat in their last five games has been 9.6, up from 3.8 for the season.
During their last five games, the Saints have scored an average of 66.4 points per game (1.5 above their season average) and allowed an average of 63.6 points per game (6.3 below their season average).
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