The Valparaiso Crusaders (1-1) square off against the Monmouth Hawks (0-4) in the at HTC Center. The game starts at 6:30 p.m. ET on Friday, November 16, 2018, and will air on ESPN 3.
Valparaiso Crusaders vs. Monmouth Hawks ATS Prediction
The Crusaders are hoping for a better outcome after their 83-71 loss to the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers in their last outing. Getting to the free throw line was one of Western Kentucky’s biggest strengths. They had 33 free throw attempts, while Valparaiso had 18. Markus Golder led Valparaiso in scoring with 15 points on 5-for-7 shooting.
The last time the Hawks played, they were blown out by the West Virginia Mountaineers, 71-53. One of West Virginia’s biggest strengths was getting to the free throw line. They made 37 trips to the line, while Monmouth went just 18 times. Monmouth’s Nick Rutherford contributed nine points, seven assists and five steals in the contest.
Monmouth might struggle to find the bottom of the net as they clash against one of the country’s best defenses. Since the 2017-18 season, Valparaiso ranks 46th in defensive efficiency while the Hawks rank 271st in offensive efficiency. Moreover, the Crusaders, who rank 46th in free throw attempt (FTA) rate (0.278), could get to the line a ton against the Hawks, who rank 326th in opponents’ FTA rate (0.292).
Valparaiso Crusaders vs. Monmouth Hawks Odds Pick
Basketball Prediction: SU Winner – Monmouth, ATS Winner – Monmouth, O/U – Under
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Notes
Betting Notes (2017-Present):
Valparaiso ranks 40th in three pointers allowed per game (19.4) while Monmouth ranks 310th (26.7).
The Crusaders average 7.4 steals per game, which ranks 54th in the nation. The Hawks rank 209th in steals allowed per game (6.6).
Valparaiso ranks 152nd in blocks per game (3.3) while Monmouth ranks 230th (2.5).
The Crusaders average 35.1 rebounds per game, which ranks 182nd in the country. The Hawks rank 185th in rebounds allowed per game (35.4).
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