The Omaha Mavericks (9-8, 3-1 Summit) will be at Western Hall to take on the Western Illinois Leathernecks (6-12, 1-4 Summit) in a Summit matchup. The game gets underway at 8 p.m. ET on Thursday, January 17, 2019.
Omaha Mavericks vs. Western Illinois Leathernecks ATS Odds
In their last matchup, the Leathernecks were beaten by the North Dakota Fighting Hawks, 71-65, while the Mavericks won a close one over the North Dakota Fighting Hawks, 92-91.
The Mavericks, who came into the game averaging an offensive rebounding percentage of 21.6, had a phenomenal mark of 40.5 and had a free throw rate of 0.333 (above their season average of 0.172). Western Illinois, on the other hand, forced North Dakota into a turnover percentage of 23.2 (above their season average of 17.1). Western Illinois’ Brandon Gilbeck had a good game, putting up 14 points and eight rebounds. Matt Pile was a key piece for Omaha with 20 points and 10 rebounds.
The Mavericks dominated this series last year, winning both games. In the most recent matchup, Omaha won 71-68. Omaha’s 0.179 free throw rate was their biggest advantage over Western Illinois, who had a rate of 0.057. This is the first time these teams will battle this year.
There’s a decent chance that Omaha struggles to create turnovers. Western Illinois ranks 61st in the nation at avoiding errors (turnover percentage of 17.1 percent), while Omaha forces the 194th-most turnovers (19.3 percent). Furthermore, the Mavericks, who rank 311th in free throw attempt (FTA) rate (0.183), will clash against the Leathernecks, who rank 34th in opponents’ FTA rate (0.180).
Omaha vs. Western Illinois Betting Pick
Pick: SU Winner – Western Illinois, ATS Winner – Western Illinois, O/U – Under
Betting Notes:
- Western Illinois ranks 31st in blocks per game (4.7) while Omaha ranks 180th (1.8).
- The Leathernecks rank 186th in three pointers attempted per game (20.9) while the Mavericks rank 224th in three pointers allowed per game (25.2).
- The Leathernecks rank 140th in rebounds per game (35.8) while the Mavericks rank 262nd (30.2).
- Omaha ranks 43rd in steals allowed per game (5.4) while Western Illinois ranks 90th (6.1).
Bettings Trends:
- The Mavericks’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 7.0, up from 0.4 for the season.
- During their last five games, the Leathernecks have scored an average of 66.6 points per game (5.2 below their season average) and allowed an average of 79.6 points per game (6.9 above their season average).
