Eastern Kentucky Colonels (3-3) vs. UNC Greensboro Spartans (6-1)
Eastern Kentucky Colonels vs. UNC Greensboro Spartans 12/7/23 – The Eastern Kentucky Colonels will take on the UNC Greensboro Spartans in a Thursday night college basketball matchup. College basketball fans eager to find free NCAAB picks are getting excited over this matchup between two teams with disparate records that promises an entertaining contest.
The Eastern Kentucky Colonels have experienced an inconsistent start to their season, averaging 87.5 points per game and boasting an aggressive and high-scoring offense with a 45.2% field goal percentage and 31.7% three-point success rate; their free throw shooting, at 59.7%, indicates room for improvement; however their boards defense is strong with 47.3 rebounds per game on average and 7.8 steals and 8.5 blocks each game; their relatively high turnover rate (12.7) could be areas of concern, as could their relatively high turnover rate (12.7 per game and foul count (15.8) per game respectively.
UNC Greensboro Spartans have enjoyed an outstanding start to their season, scoring an average of 78.9 points per game while boasting outstanding shooting accuracy – 47.1% field goal and 37.7% three-point percentages respectively. In terms of free throw shooting efficiency, 70.7% is impressively efficient as well. Defensively, while not as dominating as the Colonels on the glass (they average 35.4 rebounds per game), their lower turnover rate of 8.7 and slightly higher foul count (18 per game) suggest disciplined yet aggressive defensive approaches by both teams.
Eastern Kentucky Colonels vs. UNC Greensboro Spartans 12/7/23 Game Info
| When: | Thursday, December 7, 2023 at 7:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Michael B. Fleming Gymnasium |
| TV: | |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Devontae Blanton (Forward) vs. Mikeal Brown-Jones (Forward)
Devontae Blanton has anchored the Eastern Kentucky frontcourt this season, averaging 16.6 points and 6.2 rebounds per contest. An athletic combo forward with inside-outside versatility, Blanton leads the team in scoring while shooting a solid 42.7% from the floor. He will need to match the energy and efficiency of UNC Greensboro star Mikeal Brown-Jones on Thursday night.
Speaking of Brown-Jones, the 6’7″ forward has been nearly unstoppable around the basket for the Spartans. He leads the team with 18.9 points per game on an uber-efficient 62.3% from the field. However, Brown-Jones does most of his damage inside, attempting just four 3-point shots all season. Against a Colonels defense ranked 58th nationally in 2-point defense, Brown-Jones’ dominance inside will be put to the test.
This battle of versatile forwards could decide Thursday’s contest. If Blanton can hold his own on the glass while forcing Brown-Jones into tougher looks, Eastern Kentucky will have a shot. But if the UNC Greensboro big man continues his rampant scoring down low, it will put major pressure on the Colonels.
NCAAB Odds/Point Spread: TBD
The betting odds and point spread for this game are yet to be announced. However, given the Spartans’ superior record and the Colonels’ scoring ability, the odds are likely to be closely contested.
Eastern Kentucky Colonels Betting Trends
Eastern Kentucky’s trends showcase a team still searching for consistency against quality opponents. They’ve gone over the first half total in 20 of their last 32 contests, showcasing offensive firepower. However, they’ve gone under the full game total in 19 of those same 32 matchups, revealing shortcomings in sustaining production. Against the spread, EKU has struggled mightily, covering just once in their last six. With question marks on defense and on the road in this spot, betting EKU ATS or on the over possesses substantial risk until they prove more consistent.
UNC Greensboro Spartans Betting Trends
Conversely, UNC Greensboro’s trends depict a surging team finding their defensive identity. They’ve covered four straight contests while going under in nine of their last 14 home matchups. Additionally, the Spartans have hit the first half moneyline in 22 of their previous 28 overall. This shows even in close games, their defense travels and translates. Riding their momentum ATS and hammering the under based on the trends seems prudent here.
Eastern Kentucky Colonels vs. UNC Greensboro Spartans 12/7/23 Betting Picks
Based on the statistical analysis and betting trends, the Spartans seem to have an edge, particularly with their strong early-game performances and higher overall win rate. However, the Colonels’ high-scoring potential and ability to disrupt opponents’ rhythms should not be overlooked.
For the best premium picks, bettors should consider the key player matchup and each team’s specific strengths. Prop bets on individual performances, especially Blanton and Brown-Jones, and the over/under bets might offer value, given the teams’ scoring patterns.
Free Pick and Prediction: UNC Greensboro Spartans 82, Eastern Kentucky Colonels 75