The UC Santa Barbara Gauchos (3-1) take on the Portland State Vikings (2-1) at CenturyLink Arena. The game is scheduled to start at 7 p.m. ET on Friday, November 23, 2018.
Portland State Vikings vs. UC Santa Barbara Gauchos Betting Prediction
The Vikings will be looking for a similar outcome after blowing out the Willamette Bearcats in their last outing, 125-61. The Vikings had a much better offensive rebounding percentage (47.5 vs. 15.4) and had a much better turnover percentage (12.9 vs. 32.0). Jamie Orme had a solid performance for Portland State, finishing with 19 points and 13 rebounds.
The last time the Gauchos took the court, they easily got past the Montana State Bobcats, 88-69. The Gauchos had a turnover percentage of 10.7 (better than their season average of 17.7) and had an effective field goal percentage of 0.648 (above their season average of 0.539). Ar’mond Davis was the top scorer from either team with 22 points on 7-for-14 shooting from the field.
Based on historical performance heading into this one, ball protection could play a significant role in this meeting. Dating back to the 2017-18 season, UC Santa Barbara has committed the 23rd-fewest miscues in the nation (turnover percentage of 15.9 percent), while the disruptive defense of Portland State has forced the third-most (opponents’ turnover percentage of 24.1 percent). Contrasting styles will be on display in this battle. The up-and-down Vikings rank sixth in possessions per game, while the slower-paced Gauchos rank 288th.
Portland State Vikings vs. UC Santa Barbara Gauchos Free Pick
College Basketball Prediction: SU Winner – UC Santa Barbara, O/U – Over
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Notes
Betting Notes (2017-Present):
Portland State ranks first in steals per game (10.0) while UC Santa Barbara ranks 278th (4.8).
The Gauchos rank 21st in blocks allowed per game (2.4) while the Vikings rank 249th (4.2).
UC Santa Barbara ranks 72nd in assists per game (15.1) while Portland State ranks 277th in assists allowed per game (15.0).
The Vikings rank 35th in three pointers attempted per game (26.2) while the Gauchos rank 229th (20.6).
UC Santa Barbara ranks 82nd in rebounds allowed per game (33.3) while Portland State ranks 250th (36.8).
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