The Columbia Lions (2-6) challenge the Iona Gaels (2-5) at Madison Square Garden. Action gets underway at 11 a.m. ET on Sunday, December 9, 2018.
Columbia Lions vs. Iona Gaels Betting Odds
In their last matchup, the Gaels beat the Albany Great Danes, 72-68, while the Lions fell to the Marist Red Foxes, 82-76.
Iona played a nearly flawless game. They had a turnover percentage of 16.0 and a free throw rate of 0.281. For those same stats, Albany put up marks of 25.3 and 0.259, respectively. Columbia, meanwhile, did a great job of making free throws (17-24; 70.8 percent). Rickey McGill had a good game for Iona, contributing 12 points and nine assists. Mike Smith, meanwhile was a key piece for Columbia with 23 points and eight assists.
From an effective field goal percentage perspective, Iona figures to have a significant edge. Since last season, the Gaels offense ranks 90th in that metric at 0.532, while the Columbia defense ranks 313th in effective field goal percentage allowed (0.532).
Columbia vs. Iona ATS Pick
College Basketball Prediction: SU Winner – Iona, ATS Winner – Iona, O/U – Over
Betting Notes (2017-Present):
- Iona averages 24.9 three pointers per game, which ranks 63rd in the country. Columbia ranks 286th in three pointers allowed per game (26.6).
- The Gaels rank 45th in steals allowed per game (5.3) while the Lions rank 128th (6.1).
- Columbia ranks 47th in blocks allowed per game (2.7) while Iona ranks 65th (2.9).
- The Lions rank 64th in assists per game (15.2) while the Gaels rank 245th in assists allowed per game (15.0).
- Columbia averages 36.1 rebounds per game, which ranks 145th in the country. Iona ranks 260th in rebounds allowed per game (38.0).
