Expect a fast-paced game when the Portland State Vikings (6-9, 1-3 BigSky) head to Southern Utah to play the Thunderbirds (7-7, 2-3 BigSky). The game starts at 8:30 p.m. ET on Thursday, January 17, 2019.
Portland State Vikings vs. Southern Utah Thunderbirds ATS Odds
In their last contest, the Thunderbirds won a close one over the Northern Arizona Lumberjacks, 84-82, while the Vikings lost to the Weber State Wildcats, 95-88.
Southern Utah dominated nearly every facet of the game. They had an offensive rebounding percentage of 23.5 (below their season average of 26.0) and a free throw rate of 0.164 (matching their season average). Northern Arizona put up marks of 14.7 and 0.148, respectively, for those same stats. Portland State, on the other hand, forced Weber State into a turnover percentage of 21.7 (above their season average of 14.4). Harrison Butler had a good game for Southern Utah, putting up 17 points and nine rebounds. Portland State, meanwhile, rallied around Sal Nuhu, who finished with 20 points and seven rebounds.
The Vikings won the only contest between these two teams last year, 96-91. Portland State had a much better offensive rebounding percentage (43.1 vs. 30.6). Southern Utah, meanwhile, did a great job of getting to and converting from the free throw line (22-30; 73.3 percent). This will be the first matchup of the year between these two teams.
There could be plenty of transition offense in this showdown that features a pair of the nation’s more fast-paced teams. Southern Utah ranks 18th in possessions per game (76.1) and Portland State is 23rd (75.5).
Portland State at Southern Utah Pick
Basketball Tip: SU Winner – Southern Utah, ATS Winner – Southern Utah, O/U – Over
Betting Notes:
- Portland State ranks seventh in rebounds per game (42.9) while Southern Utah ranks 252nd in rebounds allowed per game (40.4).
- The Thunderbirds average 3.6 blocks per game, which ranks 83rd in the nation. The Vikings rank 135th in blocks allowed per game (4.1).
- Portland State ranks 99th in assists per game (14.3) while Southern Utah ranks 132nd in assists allowed per game (13.4).
- The Vikings rank 39th in three pointers allowed per game (19.6) while the Thunderbirds rank 201st (24.3).
- Portland State ranks fifth in steals per game (10.0) while Southern Utah ranks 92nd (6.9).
Bettings Trends:
- During their last five games, the Thunderbirds have scored an average of 76.0 points per game (2.1 below their season average) and allowed an average of 86.6 points per game (7.9 above their season average).
- The Vikings have been outscored by an average of 6.4 points in their last five games. On the season, Portland State has defeated opponents by an average of 3.7 points.
