Mercer Bears vs. UNCG Spartans Betting Prediction 01/01/20

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The Mercer Bears (6-8, 0-1 SoCon) will be at Greensboro Coliseum to meet the UNCG Spartans (11-3, 1-0 SoCon) in a SoCon matchup. The game gets underway at 7 p.m. ET on Wednesday, January 1, 2020.

Mercer Bears at UNCG Spartans ATS Odds

Both teams had no trouble getting past their last opponent. The Spartans defeated the William Peace Pacers 106-34, while the Bears beat the Milligan Buffaloes 104-53.

Mercer dominated every facet of the game. They had a fantastic offensive rebounding percentage of 45.5 (above their season average of 32.4) and a turnover percentage of 15.1 (better than their season average of 18.1). For those same stats, Milligan was 15.2 and 30.9, respectively. The Spartans, meanwhile, had a much better turnover percentage (15.1 vs. 40.8) and had a much better offensive rebounding percentage (50.0 vs. 18.8). UNCG’s James Dickey had a good outing, finishing with 12 points and nine rebounds. Ethan Stair played a key role for Mercer with 17 points and 10 rebounds.

The Spartans dominated this series last year, winning both games. In the most recent matchup, UNCG won 74-47. UNCG’s 0.484 effective field goal percentage was its biggest advantage over Mercer, who had a mark of 0.365. This is the first time these teams will go head-to-head this year.

UNCG should have the advantage on the offensive side of the ball. The Spartans rank 63rd in offensive efficiency, while Mercer ranks 281st in defensive efficiency.

Mercer vs. UNCG Free Pick

Free Basketball Tip: SU Winner – UNCG, ATS Winner – UNCG, O/U – Over

Betting Notes:

  • UNCG averages 27.7 three pointers per game, which ranks 90th in the nation. Mercer ranks 225th in three pointers allowed per game (22.0).
  • The Spartans rank 45th in blocks allowed per game (2.5) while the Bears rank 114th (3.1).
  • The Spartans rank 43rd in assists allowed per game (9.0) while the Bears rank 166th (13.8).
  • UNCG ranks 29th in steals per game (8.7) while Mercer ranks 122nd in steals allowed per game (7.4).

Bettings Trends:

  • During their last five games, the Bears have scored an average of 69.8 points per game (2.6 below their season average) and allowed an average of 63.6 points per game (8.7 below their season average).
  • The Spartans’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 17.8, up from 17.7 for the season.