2 picks from proven data driven predictive model for both NIT games tonight. Odds according to BetSaracen from Saracen Casino Resort.
UAB ML (-110)
The UAB Blazers are primed to dismantle the Vanderbilt Commodores in today's thrilling NIT Quarterfinals matchup.
As the college basketball world gears up for this high-stakes duel between the UAB Blazers and Vanderbilt Commodores, there's a strong case to be made for the Blazers coming out on top. The team's fast tempo, superior Adjusted Defensive Efficiency, and impressive offensive stats make them a formidable force that Vanderbilt will struggle to keep up with.
First off, let's talk tempo. UAB knows how to push the pace, ranking 20th in total possessions per game. This fast and furious style of play is sure to put the Commodores on their heels, as they scramble to keep up with the relentless Blazers. With Jordan "Jelly" Walker leading the charge, averaging 22.6 points and 3.9 assists per game on 39% 3-point shooting, the Blazers have an offensive juggernaut that Vanderbilt simply can't match.
Speaking of Walker, it's worth noting that UAB has been a different team without him on the court. In the five games he missed against Division I teams, the Blazers went 3-2 and scored 73 points or fewer in three of those games. Compare that to the 28 of 31 games in which Walker played, where the team scored at least 76 points, and it's clear that his presence is a game-changer for UAB.
On the defensive side, the Blazers boast an impressive Adjusted Defensive Efficiency that gives them a significant edge over the Commodores. UAB ranks 47th in points allowed per possession and 40th in opponent field goal percentage, proving they can lock down their opposition. Contrast that with Vanderbilt's defense, which has struggled all season, ranking 250th in points allowed per possession and a dismal 341st in turnovers forced per play.
But it doesn't stop there. The Blazers also dominate in key offensive statistical categories, including effective field goal percentage (eFG%), offensive rebound percentage, and Free Throw Attempt Rate. UAB's prowess on the boards is particularly noteworthy, as they rank 19th in the country while Vanderbilt lags behind at 208th. This disparity is only exacerbated by the absence of Vanderbilt's 7-foot center Liam Robbins, who's out with a season-ending injury. Robbins was a major contributor, averaging team-highs of 15 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 3.2 blocks per game, and his void will be keenly felt in this matchup.
Vanderbilt barely squeaked by in their previous game against Michigan, overcoming an eight-point deficit in the final minute to secure a 66-65 victory. While it was an impressive comeback, it also highlights the vulnerabilities in the Commodores' game that UAB is poised to exploit.
With all of these factors in play, the UAB Blazers are more than ready to put on a show and secure their spot in the NIT Semifinals. The Commodores may put up a fight, but in the end, the Blazers' high-octane offense, stifling defense, and superior rebounding will prove too much for Vanderbilt to handle.
So, for all you sports betting enthusiasts out there, keep a close eye on the UAB Blazers as they take on the Vanderbilt Commodores in this highly anticipated NIT Quarterfinals showdown. It's bound to be a thrilling battle, but when the dust settles, expect the Blazers to emerge victorious and continue their impressive run towards the coveted NIT Semifinals.
Utah Valley ML (-110)
The Utah Valley Wolverines are primed to dominate the Cincinnati Bearcats in their upcoming National Invitation Tournament matchup, thanks to their faster tempo, superior defense, and size advantage.
College basketball fans, get your popcorn ready – the Utah Valley Wolverines are about to face off against the Cincinnati Bearcats in a high-stakes National Invitation Tournament showdown. While both teams boast impressive records – Utah Valley at 27-8 and Cincinnati at 23-12 – the Wolverines have been making waves with their explosive pace, suffocating defense, and sheer size on the court. Today, we'll break down why Utah Valley has the edge in this must-watch game.
First up, let's talk tempo. Utah Valley has been crushing it with their fast-paced game, pushing the ball up the court quickly and racking up points in transition. This relentless pace has left opponents gasping for air and struggling to keep up – and we expect no different when they square off against Cincinnati. The Bearcats, while no slouches, simply haven't been able to match the speed and intensity of the Wolverines' game. Look for Utah Valley to continue dictating the pace and wearing down their opponents on the hardwood.
But it's not just about speed – Utah Valley also boasts a lockdown defense that's been the key to their success this season. With an Adjusted Defensive Efficiency that outshines Cincinnati's, the Wolverines have proven time and time again that they can shut down opposing offenses and keep the scoreboard in their favor. Aziz Bandaogo has been an absolute force on the boards, pulling down an astonishing 10.2 rebounds per game and leading the team to a whopping 37.4 rebounds per game – the best in the WAC. The Bearcats will have their work cut out for them trying to find open shots and second-chance opportunities against this stifling defense.
Offensively, Utah Valley also holds the edge in two crucial stat categories: eFG% (effective field goal percentage) and Free Throw Attempt Rate. With a higher eFG%, the Wolverines have been more efficient at putting the ball in the hoop, while their superior Free Throw Attempt Rate indicates that they're better at drawing fouls and getting to the line. These advantages will be crucial in a game that could be decided by just a few possessions.
And let's not forget about size. Utah Valley's roster is stacked with big, physical players who can dominate the paint and impose their will on opponents. Cincinnati, on the other hand, has struggled at times with size mismatches and may find it difficult to contain the Wolverines' frontcourt. Expect Utah Valley to exploit this advantage, pounding the ball inside and crashing the boards with ferocity.
Over the last 10 games, Utah Valley has been on a tear, going 8-2 and averaging 79.6 points per game. Their offense has been firing on all cylinders, with Le'Tre Darthard putting up 13.9 points per game and Justin Harmon contributing 14.7 points over the same stretch. Meanwhile, Cincinnati has gone 7-3, averaging 77.8 points per game, with Landers Nolley II and David Dejulius leading the charge. While the Bearcats are no pushovers, the Wolverines' recent form and statistical advantages point to a thrilling victory for Utah Valley.
So, buckle up, sports fans – this NCAA showdown is shaping up to be an epic battle between two talented teams. But when the final buzzer sounds, we're betting on the Utah Valley Wolverines to walk away with the win, thanks to their breakneck tempo, smothering defense, and undeniable size advantage. Don't sleep on this game – it's going to be one for the ages.
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