The Hampton Pirates (17-14, 12-4 MEAC) clash against the Florida A&M Rattlers (9-24, 8-9 MEAC) in the Mid-Eastern Conference Tourney at Norfolk Scope Arena. The game gets underway at 6 p.m. ET on Wednesday, March 7, 2018.
Florida A&M Rattlers vs. Hampton Pirates Free Prediction
The Rattlers come in on a high note after topping the Howard Bison in their last contest, 88-78. The Rattlers knocked down 29 of their 35 free throws (82.9 percent) and had an effective field goal percentage of 0.590 (above their season average of 0.472). Florida A&M received a boost from Elijah Mayes, who was the game’s high scorer with 27 points on 8-for-13 shooting.
The last time the Pirates played, they won a close one over the Norfolk State Spartans, 74-71. Hampton’s 0.161 free throw rate was their largest advantage over Norfolk State, who had a mark of 0.069. The Pirates’ mark was below their season average of 0.273, while the Spartans’ was below their season average of 0.226. With 19 points and 10 rebounds, Malique Trent-Street had a solid game for Hampton.
From an effective field goal percentage perspective, Hampton should have a considerable edge. The Pirates defense ranks 43rd in effective field goal percentage allowed (0.476), while the Florida A&M offense is ranked 320th in effective field goal percentage (0.475).
Both teams have had a player step their game up over their last five games. Desmond Williams (18.0 points, 7.4 rebounds and 1.2 steals) has been great for the Rattlers while Trent-Street (15.0 points, 4.4 assists and 1.6 steals) has made solid contributions to the Pirates.
This is the second game of the season between these two teams. In the first, Williams put up 19 points and seven rebounds and the Rattlers defeated the Pirates 75-71. Florida A&M made 10 of their 21 three pointers (47.6 percent). Hampton was, meanwhile, 5-23 (21.7 percent).
Florida A&M Rattlers vs. Hampton Pirates ATS Pick
Basketball Pick: SU Winner – Hampton, ATS Winner – Hampton, O/U – Over
Notes
Betting Notes:
Hampton averages 40.2 rebounds per game, which ranks 11th in the nation. Florida A&M ranks 284th in rebounds allowed per game (38.9).
The Pirates rank 66th in assists per game (15.2) while the Rattlers rank 269th (10.9).
Florida A&M averages 3.2 blocks per game, which ranks 134th in the NCAA. Hampton ranks 140th in blocks allowed per game (3.5).
The Pirates rank 271st in three pointers attempted per game (18.1) while the Rattlers rank 272nd (18.1).
Bettings Trends:
The Rattlers have outscored opponents by an average of 1.8 points in their last five games. For the season, Florida A&M has lost by an average of 10.2 points.
During their last five games, the Pirates have scored an average of 81.2 points per game (1.7 above their season average) and allowed an average of 71.2 points per game (3.9 below their season average).
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