The Western Kentucky Hilltoppers (5-6) meet the Saint Mary’s Gaels (8-5) at E.A. Diddle Arena. The game is scheduled to begin at 3 p.m. ET on Saturday, December 22, 2018.
Saint Mary’s Gaels vs. Western Kentucky Hilltoppers Betting Prediction
In the Gaels’ last outing, they blew out the McNeese State Cowboys, 87-65. The Gaels had a much better turnover percentage (7.1 vs. 16.8) and had a better free throw rate (0.167 vs. 0.119). Malik Fitts was a key piece for Saint Mary’s with 19 points and 12 rebounds.
The Hilltoppers lost big to the No. 25 Washington Huskies in their last matchup, 73-55. Washington’s turnover percentage was their biggest advantage over Western Kentucky. The Huskies had a rate of 9.8, while the Hilltoppers posted a mark of 21.0. With 11 points and 12 rebounds, Charles Bassey had a good game for Western Kentucky.
Both teams have had a player take their game to the next level over their last five games. Jordan Ford (0 points) has been stellar for the Gaels while Taveion Hollingsworth (0 points) has contributed greatly to the Hilltoppers.
Saint Mary’s could have their way on the offensive side of the ball as their prolific offense faces off against one of the country’s worst defenses. The Gaels currently rank eighth in offensive efficiency while Western Kentucky ranks 271st in defensive efficiency.
Saint Mary’s vs. Western Kentucky Pick
Free Prediction: SU Winner – Saint Mary’s, ATS Winner – Saint Mary’s, O/U – Over
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Notes
Betting Notes:
Saint Mary’s ranks 20th in three pointers allowed per game (18.3) while Western Kentucky ranks 181st (24.0).
The Hilltoppers rank 23rd in blocks per game (5.1) while the Gaels rank 154th (2.2).
Saint Mary’s ranks 31st in assists allowed per game (10.5) while Western Kentucky ranks 156th (14.3).
The Gaels rank 11th in rebounds allowed per game (29.7) while the Hilltoppers rank 104th (34.3).
Western Kentucky ranks 40th in steals per game (7.9) while Saint Mary’s ranks 126th (5.9).
Bettings Trends:
The Gaels’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 9.0, down from 11.1 for the season.
During their last five games, the Hilltoppers have scored an average of 69.8 points per game (3.1 below their season average) and allowed an average of 70.0 points per game (4.1 below their season average).
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