The No. 17 Houston Cougars (18-1, 5-1 AAC) will attempt to extend their 14-game home winning streak when they take on the East Carolina Pirates (8-9, 1-4 AAC), who look to end their six-game road losing streak. The game starts at 8 p.m. ET on Wednesday, January 23, 2019, and will air on ESPN 3.
East Carolina Pirates vs. Houston Cougars Free Prediction
The Pirates are hoping for a better outcome after their 85-74 loss to the Temple Owls in their last game. One of Temple’s largest strengths was getting to the free throw line. They had 25 free throw attempts, while East Carolina had 22. Jayden Gardner was the top scorer from either team with 27 points on 8-for-17 shooting.
In the Cougars’ previous matchup, they were victorious over the South Florida Bulls, 69-60. Houston’s effective field goal percentage was their biggest strength over South Florida. The Cougars had a rate of 0.436 (below their season average of 0.511), while the Bulls posted a mark of 0.375 (below their season average of 0.502). Breaon Brady led Houston in scoring with 13 points on 6-for-10 shooting from the field.
From an effective field goal percentage perspective, Houston figures to have a substantial edge. The Cougars defense ranks second in effective field goal percentage allowed (0.421), while the East Carolina offense is ranked 307th in effective field goal percentage (0.476).
After the Cougars won both meetings against the Pirates last season, these teams will meet for the first time this year. In the most recent game, Houston won 109-58. The Cougars had a much better offensive rebounding percentage (48.0 vs. 10.5) and had a much better effective field goal percentage (0.810 vs. 0.424).
East Carolina Pirates at Houston Cougars Odds Pick
Basketball Prediction: SU Winner – Houston, ATS Winner – East Carolina, O/U – Under
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Notes
Betting Notes:
Houston ranks 14th in rebounds per game (41.1) while East Carolina ranks 135th in rebounds allowed per game (34.8).
Bettings Trends:
The Pirates’ average margin of defeat in their last five games has been 10.8, up from 0.3 for the season.
During their last five games, the Cougars have scored an average of 75.2 points per game (0.6 above their season average) and allowed an average of 67.6 points per game (7.1 above their season average).
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