Seton Hall Pirates (8-4) vs. Xavier Musketeers (6-6)
Seton Hall Pirates vs. Xavier Musketeers 12/23/23 – Seton Hall Pirates have earned themselves an 8-4 record this season and look set to face off against Xavier Musketeers who currently stand at 6-6 on Saturday at the Cintas Center at 2:00 PM ET, broadcast live by FS1. Fans and bettors alike eagerly anticipate this matchup at the Cintas Center with premium sports predictions in mind; due to both teams having such different seasons.
Seton Hall Pirates have made an outstanding start to their season so far, averaging 75.6 points per game on offense with an excellent field goal percentage of 47.1%. Offensively they also rank highly with 12.8 offensive rebounding per game which could prove pivotal against Xavier despite their 30.8% three-point field goal percentage and 12.3 turnovers per game figures suggesting areas for concern.
At 6-6, Xavier Musketeers have shown glimpses of potential, particularly with regards to rebounding and defensive play. Averaging 75.4 points per game with 44.6% field goal percentage. Notably, their defensive rebounds per game stand at 28.5; which could counteract Seton Hall’s offensive rebounds per game of 35. Additionally, 32.3% three-point shooting and high turnover ratio (13) should help gain them an edge in this matchup.
Seton Hall Pirates vs. Xavier Musketeers Game Info
| When: | Saturday, December 23, 2023 at 2:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Cintas Center |
| TV: | FS1 |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Kadary Richmond (Guard) vs. Quincy Olivari (Guard)
Kadary Richmond has been the catalyst for Seton Hall this season, averaging 14.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, 4.4 assists and 1.9 steals. The junior guard has scored in double figures in 9 of 12 games. He excels in transition and has developed a reliable mid-range game. Richmond will look to push the pace and find open shooters against Xavier’s defense. His ability to create turnovers could lead to easy transition baskets for the Pirates.
Quincy Olivari has been Xavier’s top scorer, putting up 17.3 points per contest. The sophomore guard is shooting 43.4% from 3-point range on 6 attempts per game. Olivari has a quick trigger from beyond the arc and the range to connect from well beyond the line. He will need to provide consistent scoring by knocking down outside shots against Seton Hall’s perimeter defense. Olivari’s matchup against Richmond could determine which team’s guard gets the upper hand.
These two prolific guards should provide plenty of highlights in this Big East battle. If Richmond can set the tone with his defensive pressure, it could lead to transition points for the Pirates. But if Olivari catches fire from deep, he can single-handedly keep the Musketeers in the game with his sharpshooting.
NCAAB Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds are yet to be released, but this game poses a unique challenge for bettors. The contrasting styles of both teams and their key players’ performance will heavily influence the odds.
Seton Hall Pirates Betting Trends
Seton Hall is 3-2 in their last 5 games straight up and 1-4 against the spread. The Pirates are 1-2 against the number in road contests this year. The over has hit in just 2 of Seton Hall’s previous 5 matchups. However, 4 of their last 8 games at home have gone over 137 points.
Xavier Musketeers Betting Trends
Xavier is 2-3 straight up and 3-2 ATS over their last 5 contests. The Musketeers are 2-1 against the spread at home this season. The over has hit in 3 of Xavier’s previous 5 games. In addition, 4 of their last 8 home games have exceeded 137 total points.
Seton Hall Pirates vs. Xavier Musketeers 12/23/23 Betting Picks
This matchup presents a close contest. Seton Hall’s stronger offensive rebounding and field goal percentage may give them an edge, but Xavier’s defensive rebounding and three-point shooting cannot be underestimated. The key battle between Richmond and Olivari will be significant in deciding the outcome.
In conclusion, while Seton Hall seems to have a slight advantage, Xavier’s recent form against the spread and Olivari’s scoring ability make them a formidable opponent. For NCAAB game day insights, bettors should consider the potential for a high-scoring game and closely watch the evolving odds for any value bets.
Free Pick and Prediction: Seton Hall Pirates 72, Xavier Musketeers 70