Texas State Bobcats (4-5) vs. Sam Houston Bearkats (6-5)
Texas State Bobcats vs. Sam Houston Bearkats 12/15/23 – The upcoming NCAA Men’s Basketball game presents an intriguing matchup between the Texas State Bobcats, standing at 4-5, and the Sam Houston Bearkats, with a slightly better record at 6-5. Scheduled for Friday this contest is set to unfold at the Johnson Coliseum at 7:30 PM ET, promising a thrilling encounter. This matchup is particularly noteworthy for those seeking the best NCAAB free picks, as both teams have shown varying degrees of promise and unpredictability this season.
Texas State comes into this matchup struggling from the field, shooting just 42.4% as a team. However, guard Jordan Mason has provided an offensive spark, averaging 17 points per game on 41% shooting. The Bobcats will need to improve their perimeter shooting after hitting just 27.9% from 3-point range.
The Bearkats have been solid offensively, averaging 73.7 points per game. Guard Davon Barnes leads the attack with 15.9 points per game while shooting 38.9% from the field and 37% from 3-point range. Sam Houston will look to push the pace and find open looks from beyond the arc. However, their defense has been suspect, allowing opponents to shoot 40% from the field.
Texas State Bobcats vs. Sam Houston Bearkats Game Info
| When: | Friday, December 15, 2023, at 7:30 PM ET |
| Where: | Johnson Coliseum |
| TV: | |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Jordan Mason (Guard) vs. Davon Barnes (Guard)
Jordan Mason has burst onto the scene for Texas State, providing an offensive punch despite the team’s struggles. He’s averaging 17 points on 41% shooting along with 3.7 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game. However, Mason’s efficiency could improve, especially from 3-point range where he is shooting just 22.2%. He will need to limit turnovers after coughing up the ball 3 times per contest.
Davon Barnes has been the go-to scorer for Sam Houston, posting 15.9 points per game while shooting 38.9% from the field and 37% from beyond the arc. He contributes 3.5 rebounds but just 1.5 assists, indicating his role is primarily to score. Barnes has been relatively efficient with low turnovers, but his defensive impact has been modest. His ability to stretch the floor will be key in this matchup.
This game will likely come down to guard play and which team can hit more perimeter shots. Both Mason and Barnes will look to exploit mismatches and attack off the dribble. If Mason gets hot, he could carry Texas State, but Barnes’ shooting makes him difficult to contain without opening driving lanes. Ultimately, Barnes may have the edge with his outside shooting.
NCAAB Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds are yet to be determined, but based on the teams’ performances and statistics, this game promises to be closely contested. Bettors should keep an eye on the spread and moneyline as they become available, considering both teams’ strengths and weaknesses.
Texas State Bobcats Betting Trends
Texas State has been strong on the road moneyline, hitting in 8 of their last 18 away matchups. They also tend to play high-scoring games, going over the total in 17 of their previous 31 contests. However, their first half performance has been lackluster, only hitting the 1H moneyline in 10 of the last 31 outings.
Sam Houston Bearkats Betting Trends
Sam Houston has fared well at home, covering large spreads as big as 20 points. They score at a high clip, eclipsing 80+ points in 5 of their last 7 home games. The Bearkats also push the pace, going over 150+ total points in 4 of their previous 5 contests. Their efficiency helps them pile up points at Johnson Coliseum.
Texas State Bobcats vs. Sam Houston Bearkats 12/12/23 Betting Picks
Considering the statistical analysis and betting trends, this game appears to be a closely matched affair. Texas State’s defensive prowess might counterbalance Sam Houston’s offensive efficiency. However, the Bobcats’ struggle with turnovers and less effective 3-point shooting could be decisive factors.
For the final pick, we lean towards the Sam Houston Bearkats, primarily due to their superior 3-point shooting and free throw accuracy. Prop bets might favor individual performances, especially focusing on the key players, Mason and Barnes. The over/under will largely depend on whether Texas State can control the pace and keep the scoring low, or if Sam Houston can exploit their 3-point shooting advantage. Keep an eye on the Expert premium picks for more nuanced betting strategies and insights.
Free Pick and Prediction: Sam Houston Bearkats 72, Texas State Bobcats 68