Pat foes will collide when the Bucknell Bison (6-7) take on the American University Eagles (3-8) at Sojka Pavilion. Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. ET on Friday, December 29, 2017.
American University Eagles at Bucknell Bison Free Preview
The Eagles lost big to the Marquette Golden Eagles in their last outing, 92-51. With 12 points on 5-for-12 shooting, Laurynas Motuzis was American University’s high scorer. Marquette’s 33.3 offensive rebounding percentage was their biggest strength over American University, who had a mark of 12.5. The Golden Eagles mark was above their season average of 28.6, while the Eagles’ was below their season average of 25.7.
In the Bison’s last matchup, they defeated the La Salle Explorers, 88-81. With 30 points on 12-for-15 shooting, Nana Foulland was the games leading scorer. The Bison made 25 of their 35 free throws (71.4 percent) and had an effective field goal percentage of 0.594 (above their season average of 0.537).
This game should be a battle of contrasting styles. Bucknell has preferred a fast-paced style of play (59th in possessions per game), while American University has been more methodical (314th in possessions per game).
Both teams have had a player heat up over their last five games. For the Eagles, it’s been Motuzis, who has averaged 20.6 points, 6.0 rebounds and 1.6 steals, while the Bison have gotten great contributions from Foulland (16.0 points, 8.0 rebounds and 1.6 blocks).
This will be the first matchup of the year between these two teams, after the Bison won both matchups last season. In the most recent matchup, Bucknell won 80-60. Bucknell’s 0.694 effective field goal percentage was its largest advantage over American University, who had a mark of 0.459.
American University Eagles at Bucknell Bison Betting Prediction
Predictions: SU Winner – American University, ATS Winner – American University, O/U – Under
Betting Notes:
- Bucknell ranks 82nd in assists per game (15.2) while American University ranks 155th in assists allowed per game (14.0).
- The Bison rank 219th in rebounds per game (33.2) while the Eagles rank 262nd (29.6).
Bettings Trends:
- The Bison’s average margin of defeat in their last five games has been 1.0, down from 1.9 for the season.
- During their last five games, the Eagles have scored an average of 61.4 points per game (3.9 below their season average) and allowed an average of 71.4 points per game (5.2 below their season average).
