The winless Niagara Purple Eagles (0-5) visit Echols Hall to square off against the Norfolk State Spartans (3-5). The game begins at 4 p.m. ET on Sunday, December 1, 2019.
Niagara Purple Eagles at Norfolk State Spartans Betting Odds
Both teams were beaten in their last matchup. The Spartans fell to the Monmouth Hawks, 75-71, while the Purple Eagles were blown out by the Purdue Fort Wayne Mastodons, 77-54.
Niagara did a fantastic job of converting from the charity stripe (7-9; 77.8 percent) while Norfolk State had an offensive rebounding percentage of 44.7 (above their season average of 31.2). Joe Bryant Jr. had a good outing for Norfolk State, putting up 19 points and five rebounds. Meanwhile, James Towns fueled Niagara with 13 points.
The Purple Eagles won the sole game between these two teams last season, 83-75. Getting to the free throw line was one of Niagara’s biggest advantages. They made 29 trips to the line, while Norfolk State went just six times.
Norfolk State could have their way on defense as they battle against one of the worst offenses in the NCAA. Dating back to the 2018-19 season, the Spartans rank 41st in effective field goal percentage allowed (0.471), while Niagara is 277th in effective field goal percentage (0.487).
Niagara at Norfolk State Odds Pick
Basketball Prediction: SU Winner – Norfolk State, ATS Winner – Norfolk State, O/U – Over
Betting Notes (2018-Present):
- Norfolk State ranks 114th in steals per game (6.7) while Niagara ranks 296th (4.1).
- The Purple Eagles rank 164th in three pointers attempted per game (22.4) while the Spartans rank 221st in three pointers allowed per game (23.2).
- Norfolk State ranks 84th in blocks per game (4.0) while Niagara ranks 112th in blocks allowed per game (3.1).
- The Spartans rank 90th in rebounds per game (37.1) while the Purple Eagles rank 253rd in rebounds allowed per game (36.5).
- Norfolk State ranks 197th in assists per game (13.0) while Niagara ranks 310th (10.8).