The winless La Salle Explorers (0-7) welcome the 23rd-ranked Villanova Wildcats (5-2) to Palestra. The game starts at 3 p.m. ET on Saturday, December 1, 2018, and will air on ESPN2.
Villanova Wildcats vs. La Salle Explorers Betting Odds
In their last matchup, the Explorers were beaten by the Grand Canyon Antelopes, 82-70, while the Wildcats were victorious over the 14th-ranked Florida State Seminoles, 66-60.
Villanova played a nearly perfect game. They had an extraordinary free throw rate of 0.395 (above their season average of 0.211) and an effective field goal percentage of 0.570 (above their season average of 0.525). Florida State recorded marks of 0.255 and 0.461, respectively, for those same stats. La Salle, on the other hand, had a turnover percentage of 11.9 (better than their season average of 17.8). La Salle’s Miles Brookins had a good game, putting up 10 points and 10 rebounds. Dhamir Cosby-Roundtree played a key role for Villanova with 11 points and eight rebounds.
The Wildcats won the only contest between these two teams last season, 77-68. Getting to the free throw line was one of Villanova’s biggest advantages. They had 35 free throw attempts, while La Salle had just five.
The offense of La Salle will battle against the elite defense of Villanova. Dating back to the 2017-18 season, the Explorers rank 264th in offensive efficiency, while the Wildcats are 71st in defensive efficiency. The Wildcats should have the edge on that side of the ball.
Villanova at La Salle ATS Pick
Free Basketball Tip: SU Winner – Villanova, ATS Winner – La Salle, O/U – Under
Betting Notes (2017-Present):
- Villanova ranks 29th in assists per game (16.0) while La Salle ranks 245th (12.5).
- The Wildcats rank 114th in rebounds per game (36.6) while the Explorers rank 231st (34.3).
- Villanova ranks 44th in blocks allowed per game (2.7) while La Salle ranks 70th (2.8).
- The Wildcats rank seventh in three pointers attempted per game (29.2) while the Explorers rank 136th (22.6).
- Villanova ranks 29th in steals allowed per game (5.2) while La Salle ranks 146th (6.1).
