The UCF Knights (13-2, 3-0 AAC) put their seven-game winning streak on the line when they challenge the Wichita State Shockers (7-8, 0-3 AAC) at Charles Koch Arena. The game can be seen on CBS Sports Network at 10 p.m. ET on Wednesday, January 16, 2019.
UCF Knights at Wichita State Shockers Free Prediction
The Knights come in on a high note after defeating the East Carolina Pirates in their last game, 76-65. The Knights had a fantastic free throw rate of 0.379 (above their season average of 0.315) and had an offensive rebounding percentage of 36.4 (above their season average of 29.9). With 18 points on 6-for-14 shooting, Aubrey Dawkins was UCF’s leading scorer.
In the Shockers’ previous matchup, they were beaten by the No. 17 Houston Cougars, 79-70. Houston’s effective field goal percentage was their largest strength over Wichita State. The Cougars had a rate of 0.578 (above their season average of 0.507), while the Shockers posted a mark of 0.472. Wichita State’s Markis McDuffie had a good game, leading both teams in scoring with 22 points on 6-for-14 shooting.
Wichita State might struggle to find the bottom of the net as they go head-to-head against one of the NCAA’s best defenses. UCF ranks 27th in defensive efficiency, while the Shockers rank 278th in offensive efficiency. Additionally, the Knights, who rank seventh in free throw attempt (FTA) rate (0.320), could earn plenty of trips to the line against the Shockers, who rank 314th in opponents’ FTA rate (0.286).
After the Shockers won both games against the Knights last season, these teams will battle for the first time this year. In the most recent contest, Wichita State won 75-71. The Shockers had a much better offensive rebounding percentage (28.9 vs. 20.5) and had a better turnover percentage (8.9 vs. 12.0).
UCF Knights at Wichita State Shockers ATS Pick
College Basketball Pick: SU Winner – UCF, ATS Winner – Wichita State, O/U – Over
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Notes
Betting Notes:
UCF ranks 47th in rebounds per game (39.0) while Wichita State ranks 132nd in rebounds allowed per game (35.0).
Bettings Trends:
The Knights’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 14.8, up from 12.5 for the season.
During their last five games, the Shockers have scored an average of 72.6 points per game (1.5 above their season average) and allowed an average of 76.4 points per game (4.1 above their season average).
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