The undefeated SMU Mustangs (3-0) try to continue their impressive start when they meet the winless UAPB Golden Lions (0-3) at Moody Coliseum. Tip-off is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET on Saturday, November 18, 2017, and it can be seen on ESPN 3.
UAPB Golden Lions at SMU Mustangs ATS Preview
In the Golden Lions last contest, they were beaten by the North Dakota Fighting Hawks, 80-71. Martaveous McKnight had a solid game for UAPB, leading both teams in scoring with 30 points on 9-for-14 shooting. North Dakota had a much better turnover percentage (13.4 vs. 29.6). UAPB, meanwhile, had a much better effective field goal percentage (0.590 vs. 0.402).
The Mustangs will look to maintain momentum after blowing out the Northwestern State Demons in their last contest, 81-35. With 19 points on 7-for-14 shooting, Jarrey Foster was the top scorer from either team. SMU dominated nearly every stat category in the game. They had a superb turnover percentage of 8.5 and an effective field goal percentage of 0.530. Northwestern State was 27.3 and 0.276, respectively, for those same stats.
From an effective field goal percentage perspective, SMU figures to have a substantial edge. Since last season, the Mustangs defense ranks 16th in effective field goal percentage allowed (0.456), while the UAPB offense ranks 327th in effective field goal percentage (0.463). Additionally, the Golden Lions, who rank 272nd in free throw attempt (FTA) rate (0.224), could struggle to get to the line against the Mustangs, who rank ninth in opponents FTA rate (0.174).
UAPB Golden Lions vs. SMU Mustangs Prediction
Predictions: SU Winner – UAPB, ATS Winner – UAPB, O/U – Under
Betting Notes (2016-Present):
- The Golden Lions rank 125th in three pointers allowed per game (20.5) while the Mustangs rank 297th (24.9).
- SMU ranks 26th in assists per game (16.3) while UAPB ranks 309th (10.5).
- The Mustangs rank 26th in steals allowed per game (4.9) while the Golden Lions rank 276th (9.6).
- SMU ranks 62nd in rebounds per game (38.2) while UAPB ranks 306th (31.5).
