The Bakersfield Roadrunners (11-6, 3-1 WAC) welcome the UMKC Kangaroos (7-10, 2-0 WAC) to Icardo Center as they try to continue their seven-game home winning streak. The game starts at 10 p.m. ET on Thursday, January 17, 2019.
UMKC Kangaroos vs. Bakersfield Roadrunners Free Prediction
In the Kangaroos’ last outing, they topped the California Baptist Lancers, 84-68. The Kangaroos forced 18 turnovers and had a free throw rate of 0.377 (above their season average of 0.217). UMKC was led by Brandon McKissic, who finished with 17 points and five rebounds.
The Roadrunners fell to the New Mexico State Aggies in their last contest, 73-62. One of New Mexico State’s largest strengths was getting to the free throw line. They made 31 trips to the line, while Bakersfield went just 11 times. With 18 points and six rebounds, Jarkel Joiner had a solid performance for Bakersfield.
After splitting two games last season, these teams will meet for the first time this year. The Roadrunners won the most recent game 81-58. Bakersfield’s rebounding was their biggest advantage. The Roadrunners had 12 offensive rebounds and 41 total rebounds, while the Kangaroos had seven and 23, respectively.
This has potential to be a sloppy game for the offense of Bakersfield. Bakersfield ranks 254th in the NCAA in ball protection (turnover percentage of 20.1 percent), while the pesky defense of UMKC forces the 66th-most turnovers in the nation (22.0 percent).
UMKC Kangaroos vs. Bakersfield Roadrunners ATS Pick
Pick: SU Winner – Bakersfield, O/U – Under
Click Here to Start Betting Today!
Notes
Betting Notes:
Bakersfield ranks 108th in rebounds per game (36.6) while UMKC ranks 250th (31.6).
The Roadrunners rank 10th in blocks allowed per game (2.1) while the Kangaroos rank 99th (3.5).
UMKC ranks 22nd in steals per game (8.6) while Bakersfield ranks 78th (7.1).
The Roadrunners average 13.2 assists per game, which ranks 145th in the nation. The Kangaroos rank 154th in assists allowed per game (14.0).
Bettings Trends:
The Kangaroos have outscored opponents by an average of 3.0 points in their last five games. On the season, UMKC has been defeated by an average of 2.4 points.
During their last five games, the Roadrunners have scored an average of 69.4 points per game (2.5 below their season average) and allowed an average of 74.6 points per game (4.3 above their season average).
+++++
