SMU Mustangs (10-4) vs. Memphis Tigers (12-2)
SMU Mustangs vs. Memphis Tigers 1/7/24 – SMU Mustangs and Memphis Tigers will meet Sunday for an exhilarating NCAA Men’s Basketball matchup that is sure to delight fans and bettors alike, drawing upon NCAAB no-cost picks as a source of insight into this high-stakes matchup which will be broadcasted live on ESPN. Fans and bettors alike look forward to this battle, which should provide fans with plenty of action-packed entertainment as they look ahead.
SMU Mustangs have shown impressive performances this season, scoring an average of 75.6 points per game and posting an impressive 46.5% field goal percentage with 35.6% accuracy in 3-point shots – however their free throw percentage (66.5%) leaves some room for improvement. Defensively they have been strong, averaging 40.7 rebounds per game alongside 8.3 steals and 5 blocks per contest, plus keeping possession with only 12.1 turnovers per contest which will prove crucial against Tigers opponents.
Memphis Tigers pose an impressive challenge with their average of 79.2 points per game, highlighted by their 45.3 field goal percentage and 33.2% 3-point field goal percentage; their free throw success rate stands at 75.8% while they also average 37.3 rebounds per game while showing more aggressive defensive tendencies with 8.9 steals and 4.5 blocks each game; their slightly higher average of 13.4 turnovers could prove problematic against Mustangs’ defense.
SMU Mustangs vs. Memphis Tigers 1/7/24 Game Info
| When: | Sunday, January 7, 2024, at 5:00 PM ET |
| Where: | FedExForum |
| TV: | ESPN |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Zhuric Phelps (Guard) vs. David Jones (Forward)
Zhuric Phelps has been carrying the Mustangs this season, playing over 28 minutes a night. Along with his scoring, he contributes 4.8 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.9 steals per game. His perimeter scoring and ball-hawking defense could be a difference-maker. However, he does turn the ball over 2.4 times per game.
David Jones meanwhile is even more integral to his team’s success. In nearly 32 minutes per game, he fills the box score to the tune of 20.9 points, 6.5 rebounds, 1.4 assists and 2 steals. He is an efficient shooter inside and out, with the ability to take over a game. His matchup with Phelps could determine the outcome.
These two talented scorers likely neutralize each other. But Jones has more help around him, giving Memphis an edge.
NCAAB Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
Currently, the betting odds for this matchup are yet to be determined. However, bettors should closely monitor the spread and moneyline as they become available. The trends suggest a closely contested game, making it a challenging yet exciting prospect for those looking to place bets.
SMU Mustangs Betting Trends
SMU has covered the spread in 5 straight games, displaying consistent strong play against betting expectations. The Mustangs are also 3-1 against the spread away from home, meaning they rise to the challenge in road matchups like this one.
Memphis Tigers Betting Trends
Conversely, Memphis has failed to cover in 4 of their last 5 contests. Bettors appear to be overvaluing the Tigers given their straight-up success. That trend could continue against a quality conference foe like SMU. Additionally, the over has hit in 3 of Memphis’ last 5 overall.
SMU Mustangs vs. Memphis Tigers 1/6/24 Betting Picks
Based on the comprehensive analysis and the current trends, this game appears to be a tightly contested affair. The Mustangs’ consistent performance against the spread makes them an attractive pick, especially considering the Tigers’ struggles in this area. However, the Tigers’ offensive firepower cannot be underestimated. For prop bets, focusing on individual player performances, particularly those of Phelps and Jones, could be rewarding. The over/under will be a critical aspect to watch, given both teams’ tendencies in recent games.
Handicapper’s favorite picks lean slightly towards the SMU Mustangs, primarily due to their impressive record against the spread and solid defensive statistics. However, the Memphis Tigers’ home advantage and scoring ability make them a formidable opponent. It’s expected to be a close match, potentially with a final score favoring the Tigers in a high-scoring affair.
Free Pick and Prediction: Memphis Tigers 78, SMU Mustangs 74