It will be a matchup between two tremendous defenses when the Saint Mary’s Gaels (3-2) clash against the Harvard Crimson (2-3) at McKeon Pavilion. Action starts at 9 p.m. ET on Saturday, November 24, 2018.
Harvard Crimson vs. Saint Mary’s Gaels ATS Odds
Both teams fell in their last game. The Gaels fell to the 15th-ranked Mississippi State Bulldogs, 61-57, while the Crimson were defeated by the San Francisco Dons, 61-57.
Harvard held San Francisco to an effective field goal percentage of 0.339 (below their season average of 0.597) while Saint Mary’s had a better turnover percentage (7.1 vs. 11.9). Saint Mary’s rallied around Jordan Ford, who contributed 23 points. Chris Lewis played a key role for Harvard with 16 points and five rebounds.
The Gaels won the lone game between these two teams last season, 89-71. Saint Mary’s was effective at getting and making free throws. The Gaels made 30 of their 32 free throws (93.8 percent), while the Crimson were 11-14 (78.6 percent).
Half-court execution will be critical when a pair of the nation’s slowest-paced teams square off. Saint Mary’s ranks 347th in possessions per game (63.8) and Harvard is 273rd (67.8) since last season. Furthermore, the Crimson, who rank 271st in offensive rebounding percentage (26.3 percent), will battle against the Gaels, who rank 11th in defensive rebounding percentage (77.1 percent).
Harvard Crimson vs. Saint Mary’s Gaels Free Pick
Basketball Prediction: SU Winner – Saint Mary’s, ATS Winner – Saint Mary’s, O/U – Over
Betting Notes (2017-Present):
- Saint Mary’s ranks 45th in steals allowed per game (5.3) while Harvard ranks 236th (6.9).
- The Gaels lead the NCAA with 28.1 rebounds allowed per game while the Crimson are 51st with 32.5 rebounds allowed per game.
- The Crimson rank 92nd in blocks per game (3.8) while the Gaels rank 243rd (2.4).
- Harvard ranks 137th in three pointers attempted per game (22.7) while Saint Mary’s ranks 264th (19.5).
