Expect a fast-paced game when the LIU Brooklyn Blackbirds (6-6) head to Sacred Heart to take on the Pioneers (4-9). The game is scheduled to start at 6 p.m. ET on Thursday, January 3, 2019.
LIU Brooklyn Blackbirds at Sacred Heart Pioneers Betting Odds
In their last contest, the Pioneers were beaten by the Holy Cross Crusaders, 93-81, while the Blackbirds won big over the College of New Rochelle Blue Angels, 109-76.
LIU Brooklyn played a nearly perfect game. They had an effective field goal percentage of 0.597 and a free throw rate of 0.221. For those same stats, College of New Rochelle was 0.363 and 0.179, respectively. Sacred Heart, on the other hand, had a better free throw rate (0.261 vs. 0.190). Koreem Ozier had a good outing for Sacred Heart, recording 23 points. Meanwhile, LIU Brooklyn received a boost from Ty Flowers, who finished with 21 points, 10 rebounds and six assists.
The Blackbirds dominated this series last year, winning both games. In the last game, LIU Brooklyn won 88-77. Making free throws was one of LIU Brooklyn’s largest strengths. They were 18-22 (81.8 percent), while the Pioneers were 13-16 (81.3 percent). This will be the first matchup of the year between these two teams.
The Blackbirds’ Raiquan Clark has been playing at a high level over his last five games, averaging 0 points per game. Meanwhile, Sean Hoehn has averaged 0 points during that same time frame for the Pioneers.
There could be a fair amount of transition offense in this matchup that showcases a pair of the nation’s more up-and-down teams. Sacred Heart ranks 23rd in possessions per game (75.7) and LIU Brooklyn is 44th (74.1).
LIU Brooklyn at Sacred Heart Free Pick
Basketball Pick: SU Winner – Sacred Heart, O/U – Under
Betting Notes:
- LIU Brooklyn averages 27.4 three pointers per game, which ranks 27th in the nation. Sacred Heart ranks 259th in three pointers allowed per game (27.7).
- The Pioneers rank 72nd in blocks per game (3.8) while the Blackbirds rank 149th in blocks allowed per game (4.5).
- LIU Brooklyn ranks 65th in steals per game (7.4) while Sacred Heart ranks 139th in steals allowed per game (7.0).
- The Pioneers average 39.8 rebounds per game, which ranks 36th in the country. The Blackbirds rank 205th in rebounds allowed per game (37.9).
- Sacred Heart ranks 44th in assists per game (15.7) while LIU Brooklyn ranks 147th (13.1).
Bettings Trends:
- During their last five games, the Pioneers have scored an average of 88.2 points per game (5.8 above their season average) and allowed an average of 83.8 points per game (1.2 below their season average).
- The Blackbirds have scored an equal number of points as their opponents. For the season, LIU Brooklyn has been defeated by an average of 0.6 points.
