The North Carolina Central Eagles (4-8) will attempt to end their seven-game road losing streak in a matchup against the Saint Louis Billikens (7-3) at Chaifetz Arena. The game is scheduled to start at 8 p.m. ET on Wednesday, December 19, 2018.
North Carolina Central Eagles vs. Saint Louis Billikens Betting Prediction
The Eagles are hoping for a better outcome after their 71-51 loss to the No. 22 Clemson Tigers in their last game. Clemson’s 15.7 turnover percentage was their largest strength over North Carolina Central, who had a mark of 24.5. Zacarry Douglas put together a solid outing for North Carolina Central, recording 12 points and 11 rebounds.
In the Billikens’ previous outing, they beat the Southeast Missouri State Redhawks, 75-65. The Billikens had a much better free throw rate (0.352 vs. 0.138) and had a much better offensive rebounding percentage (30.6 vs. 17.6). With 18 points and five rebounds, Javon Bess had a good performance for Saint Louis.
Both teams have had a player step their game up over their last five games. Randy Miller, Jr. (0 points) has been great for the Eagles while Bess (0 points) has made great contributions to the Billikens.
This has potential to be a sloppy game for the Saint Louis offense. Saint Louis ranks 297th in the country in ball protection (turnover percentage of 21.2 percent), while the disruptive defense of North Carolina Central forces the 52nd-most turnovers in the NCAA (22.2 percent). Also, the Eagles, who rank 52nd in offensive rebounding percentage (33.9 percent), will clash against the Billikens, who rank 41st in defensive rebounding percentage (75.7 percent).
North Carolina Central Eagles at Saint Louis Billikens Free Pick
Basketball Tip: SU Winner – Saint Louis, O/U – Under
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Notes
Betting Notes:
Saint Louis ranks 36th in rebounds per game (40.0) while North Carolina Central ranks 189th (34.1).
The Billikens rank 29th in assists allowed per game (10.4) while the Eagles rank 171st (14.6).
Saint Louis ranks 26th in blocks per game (4.9) while North Carolina Central ranks 155th (2.3).
The Eagles rank 30th in steals allowed per game (5.3) while the Billikens rank 113th (6.5).
North Carolina Central ranks 206th in three pointers attempted per game (20.1) while Saint Louis ranks 246th (17.8).
Bettings Trends:
The Eagles have been outscored by an average of 1.2 points in their last five games. On the season, North Carolina Central has defeated opponents by an average of 1.9 points.
During their last five games, the Billikens have scored an average of 69.0 points per game (2.3 above their season average) and allowed an average of 64.0 points per game (1.7 above their season average).
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