Portland Pilots (5-4) vs. North Dakota State Bison (5-4)
Portland Pilots vs. North Dakota State Bison 12/7/23 – The Portland Pilots take on the North Dakota State Bison on Thursday night in a non-conference NCAA men’s basketball matchup. This game, tipping off at 8:00 PM ET at the Scheels Center, is a significant matchup in the college basketball landscape and a key focus for those seeking NCAAB free advice.
Portland Pilots have demonstrated impressive offensive capabilities this season, averaging an average of 79 points per game and shooting efficiency at 47.6% field goal percentage and 33.5% success rate from 3-point line. Free throw success rate stands out at 72.5% success rate as well. Defensively they average 37.9 rebounds per game with assists, steals and blocks being strong contributors; however their 15.6 turnovers per game and 17.4 fouls per game could pose problems against Bison.
North Dakota State Bison have proven themselves formidable opponents, averaging 76 points per game on average. Their field goal percentage stands at 45.5% and 3-point shooting success stands at 38% – both impressive statistics for any team! Their strong rebounding game features 37.7 averaged rebound per game while free throw percentage comes in slightly below 68% and turnovers per game total 10.6 which must be managed carefully against.
Portland Pilots vs. North Dakota State Bison 12/7/23 Game Info
| When: | Thursday, December 7, 2023 at 8:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Scheels Center |
| TV: | |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Tyler Robertson (Guard) vs. Boden Skunberg (Guard)
Tyler Robertson is averaging 17 points, 3.7 rebounds and 5.2 assists for the Pilots this season while shooting an efficient 49.5% from the field. The junior guard has been a steady offensive creator for Portland, but his defensive capabilities could be tested against Skunberg. Robertson’s turnover issues are also something to watch in this matchup.
Boden Skunberg is putting up 15.2 points and 5.6 rebounds per contest for North Dakota State this year. The senior guard isn’t the top scoring option for his team but his versatility on both ends makes him a tough assignment. Skunberg’s ability to stretch the floor with his 37.5% 3-point shooting paired with his disruptiveness defensively sets the tone for the Bison.
This individual matchup of experienced, well-rounded guards will go a long way in determining which side gains an edge. Robertson has more offensive creativity but Skunberg’s physicality and defensive prowess could limit Portland’s top scorer. Expect an intense battle between these prolific backcourt competitors all game long.
NCAAB Odds/Point Spread: TBD
The betting odds for this game are yet to be released but are expected to be closely contested. The point spread and total odds will be key factors for bettors, given the offensive strengths of both teams.
Portland Pilots Betting Trends
The Pilots have gone under the game total in 8 of their last 13 away contests. They’ve also gone under their team total in 8 of those games. This indicates Portland has struggled to score on the road, rarely eclipsing 70+ points. However, North Dakota State gives up over 70 points per home game this year which could help the Pilots outproduce their road scoring averages. Still, Portland hitting the under on totals seems probable.
North Dakota State Bison Betting Trends
North Dakota State has gone over the game total in 18 of its last 29 overall. The Bison are also 16-13 against the spread during this stretch. North Dakota State’s home-court advantage has seen totals eclipse 140 points frequently this season. Their high-pace offense and offensive rebounding prowess allow them to hit overs even if opponents like Portland prefer slower games. Ride their scoring trends over the low total.
Portland Pilots vs. North Dakota State Bison Betting Picks
Considering the performance and trends of both teams, the Bison, with their strong early-game performances and home-court advantage, seem to have a slight edge. However, the Pilots’ potential for strategic play in away games should not be underestimated.
For the best sports handicappers, bettors should consider prop bets on key player performances and the over/under based on the teams’ scoring trends. The Bison’s potential for a high-scoring game and the Pilots’ strategic approach in away games could offer interesting betting opportunities.
Free Pick and Prediction: North Dakota State Bison 74, Portland Pilots 70