Game of the day: Rhode Island vs Providence
Even without E.C Matthews, Rhode Island has played very well as of late, and will look to continue the success against Providence tonight. Although, the Friars have other plans, as they enter this game on a 5 game win streak. Here are some keys for both teams.
The Friars are very experienced, and lead by a talented tandem of Seniors in Rodney Bullock and Kyron Cartwright. The duo combines for an average of 27 points a game, and they are what makes this team run. Especially Cartwright, who is twelfth in the country in assists, averaging 7 a game.
For Rhode Island, the situation is very similar. Even with the absence of E.C Matthews, the Rams are overall very experienced, as 4 of their starters are seniors. One of those 4, Jared Terrell, has looked great as of late, and he will be key in the game tomorrow.
This one will come down to the little things, and definitely will be an important game for both teams when it comes to determining seeding for March Madness.
My Prediction: Rhode Island 70, Providence 77
Maine vs Fordham
Although they would prefer to see a larger number in the win column, both teams are probably happy with the experience that they have gotten. The key to this one could be the guard matchup between Joseph Chartouny, who has lately struggled to score the ball, and Aaron Calixte. Whoever can take control of this matchup, will give their team an advantage. I expect Chartouny to get back to his scoring ways, and lift his team to a victory.
My Prediction: Fordham 70, Maine 62
UMass vs South Carolina
After two tough losses, UMass will look to get back on track and pick up a big win over South Carolina. Rashaan Holloway has started to play better as of late, averaging 15 points and 7.5 rebounds in his last two games. He will be relied on for rebounds, as the Gamecocks have been out rebounding opponents by an average of 7 boards a game. If UMass can get off to a strong start, they have more than a good chance to pull this one out.
My Prediction: UMass 71, South Carolina 76
Villanova vs Saint Joseph’s
The atmosphere for this game will be crazy, and the Hawks will definitely be hyped and ready to go. But, if they are going to hang in it, and possibly get the upset, their main guys are all going to have to step up. Especially Newkirk, who will be going against Jalen Brunson, considered one of the best guards in the NCAA. The crowd will help, but this is still going to be a hard game for the Hawks to hang in without being full strength.
My Prediction: Villanova 83, Saint Joseph’s 69
Butler vs Saint Louis
The Billikens have been struggling after picking up a victory over Virginia Tech, and they will look to get another big win today against Butler. This one ultimately comes down to which Saint Louis team shows up. If they play like there last 3 games, they will lose. But, if they can get back to how they were against the Hokies, they will make this game interesting.
My Prediction: Saint Louis 58, Butler 64
Old Dominion vs VCU
Old Dominion has had some decent wins this year, and VCU will have to make sure not to overlook them in this game. It will be interesting to watch the battle between Tillman and the bigs for Old Dominion in this one. VCU has had to deal with playing a couple of teams who love to shoot the three. Lucky for VCU, the Monarchs are not one of those teams.
My Prediction: VCU 76, Old Dominion 62
St. Bonaventure vs Buffalo
The Bonnies enter this game after a decisive victory over Siena, and will face a Buffalo team that has been inconsistent throughout the beginning portion of this season. Matt Mobley has played very well this year, and will get a good matchup going against CJ Massinburg of the Bulls, who has averaged 18 points per game this season. Both teams are coming off of good wins, and this game should be very competitive. Jaylen Adams status will be a game-time decision.
My Prediction: St. Bonaventure 68, Buffalo 60
Richmond vs Wake Forest
Richmond has struggled recently, and they are now running into a Wake Forest team that is beginning to hit their stride. The Spiders have lost their last three games by 6 a piece, and they are gonna need to learn how to win these types of close games. Richmond will turn things around soon, but not today.
My Prediction: Richmond 61, Wake Forest 72
Holy Cross vs La Salle
Holy Cross has had their fair share of problems so far this season, and enter the game with a 4 game losing streak. The Explorers have gained a lot of experience through playing tougher competition, and should have their way against an inferior opponent. Frustrations from yesterday’s close loss will be released in this morning contest.
My Prediction: La Salle 75, Holy Cross 60
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1 Comment
Awesome!