The North Dakota State Bison (5-6) and the UNCW Seahawks (2-7) battle in the Don Haskins Sun Bowl Invitational at Don Haskins Center. Action begins at 7 p.m. ET on Thursday, December 21, 2017.
UNCW Seahawks vs. North Dakota State Bison Free Preview
The last time the Seahawks played, they were beaten by the Furman Paladins, 90-84. UNCW’s Devontae Cacok had a solid performance, leading both teams in scoring with 24 points on 10-for-12 shooting. Furman had a free throw rate of 0.273 (above their season average of 0.202). UNCW, meanwhile, had an offensive rebounding percentage of 46.3 (above their season average of 33.7).
The Bison are hoping for a better outcome after their 83-53 loss to the No. 18 Arizona Wildcats in their last outing. Paul Miller led North Dakota State in scoring with 12 points on 4-for-13 shooting. Arizona’s 6.5 turnover percentage was their largest strength over North Dakota State, who had a rate of 18.2. The Wildcats mark was better than their season average of 15.6, while the Bison’s was above the 15.0 mark opponents have averaged against Arizona this season.
North Dakota State could have their way on the offensive side of the ball as their elite offense squares off against one of the NCAA’s worst defenses. The Bison rank 57th in effective field goal percentage (0.533), while UNCW ranks 334th in effective field goal percentage allowed (0.536) since last season. This game should be a battle of contrasting paces. The up-tempo Seahawks rank 14th in possessions per game, while the slower-paced Bison rank 285th.
UNCW Seahawks vs. North Dakota State Bison Free Prediction
Predictions: SU Winner – UNCW, ATS Winner – UNCW, O/U – Over
Betting Notes (2016-Present):
- The Bison rank 48th in steals allowed per game (5.7) while the Seahawks rank 55th (5.0).
- UNCW ranks 23rd in rebounds per game (37.0) while North Dakota State ranks 228th (34.4).
- The Bison rank 22nd in three pointers allowed per game (20.9) while the Seahawks rank 182nd (17.7).
- UNCW ranks 31st in assists per game (16.3) while North Dakota State ranks 140th (12.6).
