Expect a high-scoring game when the Nicholls Colonels (8-6, 2-1 SthLnd) square off with the Sam Houston State Bearkats (10-4, 3-0 SthLnd) at Johnson Coliseum. The game gets underway at 6:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, January 4, 2020.
Nicholls Colonels vs. Sam Houston State Bearkats Betting Odds
Both teams were triumphant in their last game. The Bearkats won big over the McNeese State Cowboys 94-75, while the Colonels defeated the UIW Cardinals 76-60.
Nicholls played a nearly flawless game. They had a turnover percentage of 16.4 (worse than their season average of 16.1) and a free throw rate of 0.271 (above their season average of 0.193). UIW was 23.9 and 0.222, respectively, for those same stats. The Bearkats, on the other hand, forced 22 turnovers and had an effective field goal percentage of 0.690 (above their season average of 0.517). Sam Houston State was lifted by Zach Nutall, who put up 25 points. Elvis Harvey Jr. had a good game for Nicholls, recording 19 points and eight rebounds.
The Bearkats won the sole game between these two teams last year, 84-74. The Bearkats’ 28.9 offensive rebounding percentage was their biggest strength over the Colonels, who had a rate of 16.7. This is the first time these teams will go head-to-head this year.
Points could be at a premium as two of the nation’s top defenses clash. Sam Houston State currently ranks 58th in defensive efficiency (90.7) and Nicholls is 60th (91.2).
Nicholls Colonels at Sam Houston State Bearkats ATS Pick
Free Basketball Pick: SU Winner – Sam Houston State, ATS Winner – Sam Houston State, O/U – Over
Betting Notes:
- Nicholls ranks 69th in three pointers attempted per game (24.9) while Sam Houston State ranks 211th in three pointers allowed per game (24.5).
- The Colonels average 11.2 steals per game, which ranks first in the NCAA. The Bearkats rank 125th in steals allowed per game (6.9).
- The Bearkats average 17.5 assists per game, which ranks eighth in the nation. The Colonels rank 140th in assists allowed per game (12.9).
- Sam Houston State averages 37.8 rebounds per game, which ranks 89th in the nation. Nicholls ranks 218th in rebounds allowed per game (38.1).
Bettings Trends:
- During their last five games, the Bearkats have scored an average of 87.8 points per game (5.3 above their season average) and allowed an average of 70.4 points per game (0.3 above their season average).
- The Colonels’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 10.4, up from 10.3 for the season.
