A five-game home winning streak is on the line for the Norfolk State Spartans (15-11, 10-1 MEAC) when they welcome the North Carolina A&T Aggies (14-11, 9-2 MEAC) to Echols Hall. Action gets underway at 8 p.m. ET on Monday, February 18, 2019.
North Carolina A&T Aggies vs. Norfolk State Spartans ATS Odds
Both teams beat their last opponent. The Spartans defeated the North Carolina Central Eagles 75-71, while the Aggies beat the Howard Bison 85-81.
North Carolina A&T’s effective field goal percentage was their biggest advantage over Howard. The Aggies had a rate of 0.603 (above their season average of 0.532), while the Bison posted a mark of 0.476. The Spartans, on the other hand, forced 21 turnovers and held the Eagles to an effective field goal percentage of 0.424 (below their season average of 0.513). Derrik Jamerson Jr. put together a good outing for Norfolk State with 23 points and five rebounds. North Carolina A&T, meanwhile, received a boost from Ronald Jackson, who recorded 16 points and seven rebounds.
The Aggies dominated this series last year, securing victories in both contests. In the most recent contest, North Carolina A&T won 70-64. North Carolina A&T had a much better free throw rate (0.442 vs. 0.065). Norfolk State, meanwhile, had a much better turnover percentage (14.0 vs. 25.3). This is the first time these teams will clash this year.
This game should be a battle of contrasting styles. Norfolk State has preferred a fast-paced style of play (65th in possessions per game), while North Carolina A&T has been more methodical (273rd in possessions per game).
North Carolina A&T Aggies vs. Norfolk State Spartans Pick
Basketball Tip: SU Winner – Norfolk State, ATS Winner – Norfolk State, O/U – Under
Betting Notes:
- Norfolk State ranks 168th in rebounds per game (35.0) while North Carolina A&T ranks 265th (31.8).
- The Aggies average 14.4 assists per game, which ranks 86th in the NCAA. The Spartans rank 142nd in assists allowed per game (13.3).
- The Spartans rank 14th in steals allowed per game (4.9) while the Aggies rank 101st (6.2).
- Norfolk State ranks 41st in blocks per game (4.4) while North Carolina A&T ranks 120th (3.2).
Bettings Trends:
- The Spartans’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 7.6, up from 3.8 for the season.
- During their last five games, the Aggies have scored an average of 65.4 points per game (5.6 below their season average) and allowed an average of 65.2 points per game (5.8 below their season average).
