It will be a contest between two sensational offenses when the Pepperdine Waves (9-9, 2-2 WCC) take on the Saint Mary’s Gaels (15-4, 2-2 WCC) at Firestone Fieldhouse. Action begins at 4 p.m. ET on Saturday, January 18, 2020, and can be seen on CBS Sports Network.
Saint Mary’s Gaels vs. Pepperdine Waves Betting Odds
In their last game, the Waves beat the Loyola Marymount Lions, 75-67, while the Gaels lost a winnable game to the Santa Clara Broncos, 67-66.
The Waves knocked down 20 of their 24 free throws (83.3 percent) and had an effective field goal percentage of 0.585 (above their season average of 0.498). Saint Mary’s, on the other hand, did a fantastic job of converting from the free throw line (19-23; 82.6 percent). Colbey Ross had a good outing for Pepperdine, recording 20 points and eight assists. Saint Mary’s, meanwhile, rallied around Malik Fitts, who recorded 17 points and 11 rebounds.
This series was highly competitive last year, as the teams split their two games last season. The Gaels won the last game 72-65. Saint Mary’s’ rebounding was their largest strength. The Gaels had 10 offensive rebounds and 34 total rebounds, while the Waves had three and 25, respectively. This is the first time these teams will meet this year.
Contrasting styles will be on display in this battle. Pepperdine has preferred to play up-tempo (78th in possessions per game), while Saint Mary’s has been slower-paced (294th in possessions per game). Additionally, the Gaels’ third-ranked offense (offensive efficiency of 115.8) will try to exploit the Waves’ 321st-ranked defense (defensive efficiency of 106.6).
Saint Mary’s at Pepperdine Odds Pick
Basketball Pick: SU Winner – Pepperdine, ATS Winner – Pepperdine, O/U – Under
Betting Notes:
- Saint Mary’s ranks fourth in assists allowed per game (8.6) while Pepperdine ranks 230th (15.6).
- The Gaels rank 20th in three pointers allowed per game (17.8) while the Waves rank 106th (21.1).
- The Gaels rank second in steals allowed per game (4.1) while the Waves rank 145th (7.1).
- Saint Mary’s ranks 15th in rebounds allowed per game (30.4) while Pepperdine ranks 158th (35.6).
Bettings Trends:
- The Waves’ average margin of defeat in their last five games has been 1.6, up from 0.1 for the season.
- During their last five games, the Gaels have scored an average of 81.0 points per game (3.2 above their season average) and allowed an average of 74.8 points per game (9.0 above their season average).
