Both teams look to continue their five game winning streaks as the No. 22 Wisconsin Badgers (10-3, 2-0 Big 10) clash with the Minnesota Golden Gophers (11-2, 1-1 Big 10) at Kohl Center. The game begins at 9 p.m. ET on Thursday, January 3, 2019.
Minnesota Golden Gophers at Wisconsin Badgers Free Prediction
The last time the Golden Gophers played, they dismantled the Omaha Mavericks, 104-76. The Golden Gophers had a much better offensive rebounding percentage (44.4 vs. 17.1) and had a much better effective field goal percentage (0.710 vs. 0.500). Minnesota was led by Jordan Murphy, who had 12 points, 10 rebounds and five assists.
The Badgers easily got past the Coppin State Eagles in their last contest, 85-63. The Badgers had a much better turnover percentage (6.5 vs. 17.5) and had a much better free throw rate (0.377 vs. 0.169). With 10 points, 12 assists and 11 rebounds, Wisconsin’s Ethan Happ led the way with his zeroth triple-double of the season.
From an effective field goal percentage perspective, Wisconsin figures to have a considerable advantage. The Badgers defense ranks 56th in effective field goal percentage allowed (0.464), while the Minnesota offense is ranked 277th in effective field goal percentage (0.486). Moreover, the Golden Gophers rank 13th in offensive rebounding percentage (38.2 percent), while the Badgers rank 34th in defensive rebounding percentage (76.1 percent).
Both teams have had a player take their game to the next level over their last five games. Murphy (0 points) has been fantastic for the Golden Gophers while Happ (0 points) has made great contributions to the Badgers.
After the Badgers won the lone game against the Golden Gophers last season, 73-63, these teams will go head-to-head for the first time this year. The Badgers had a better free throw rate (0.200 vs. 0.121) and had a better turnover percentage (14.9 vs. 19.6).
Minnesota Golden Gophers vs. Wisconsin Badgers Pick
College Basketball Pick: SU Winner – Wisconsin, ATS Winner – Wisconsin, O/U – Under
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Notes
Betting Notes:
Wisconsin ranks fourth in steals allowed per game (4.3) while Minnesota ranks 63rd (5.8).
Bettings Trends:
The Golden Gophers’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 11.6, up from 7.8 for the season.
During their last five games, the Badgers have scored an average of 79.6 points per game (3.1 above their season average) and allowed an average of 58.8 points per game (4.4 below their season average).
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