The Mississippi Valley State Delta Devils (0-9) are off to a slow start and will try to pick up their first win when they meet the Akron Zips (5-2) at James A. Rhodes Arena. Tip-off is scheduled for 2 p.m. ET on Saturday, December 16, 2017.
Mississippi Valley State Delta Devils at Akron Zips Free Preview
In the Delta Devils last outing, they got blown out by the Duquesne Dukes, 73-49. With 11 points on 3-for-10 shooting, Dante Scott was Mississippi Valley State’s high scorer. Duquesne had a turnover percentage of 10.0 (better than their season average of 13.3). Mississippi Valley State, on the other hand, did a terrific job of converting from the free throw line (8-11; 72.7 percent).
The Zips will look to keep it rolling after topping the Appalachian State Mountaineers in their last contest, 94-89. Akron received a boost from Daniel Utomi, who had 18 points and 10 rebounds. The Zips held the Mountaineers to an offensive rebounding percentage of 17.6 (below their season average of 35.6) and had an effective field goal percentage of 0.683 (above their season average of 0.507).
Half-court execution will be critical when a pair of the nation’s slowest-paced teams go head-to-head. Akron ranks 273rd in possessions per game (68.1) and Mississippi Valley State is 304th (70.9) dating back to last season.
Mississippi Valley State Delta Devils at Akron Zips Free Prediction
Predictions: SU Winner – Akron, ATS Winner – Akron, O/U – Over
Betting Notes (2016-Present):
- The Zips rank 71st in rebounds allowed per game (33.0) while the Delta Devils rank 242nd (39.0).
- Akron ranks 30th in three pointers attempted per game (26.9) while Mississippi Valley State ranks 263rd (16.0).
- The Zips rank 64th in assists allowed per game (11.9) while the Delta Devils rank 250th (17.0).
- Akron ranks 13th in blocks allowed per game (2.2) while Mississippi Valley State ranks 189th (4.1).
