Akron Zips (13-4) vs. Kent State Golden Flashes (8-8)
Akron Zips vs. Kent State Golden Flashes 1/19/24 – In the world of college basketball, matchups like the one between the Akron Zips and the Kent State Golden Flashes are always filled with anticipation. Set to face off on Friday, the Zips come into this game with a strong 13-4 record, while the Golden Flashes hold a balanced 8-8. This game presents a fascinating clash in the NCAA landscape. Fans and bettors alike are keenly looking forward to this encounter, with many already eyeing NCAAB game winning tips.
Akron Zips have made waves this season for their impressive offensive prowess, scoring 77.1 points per game at an impressive 47.1% field goal percentage and 35.6% three-point success rate; free throw shooting stands at an outstanding 71.6% rate; while their 36 rebounds per game and average of 6.5 steals indicate their ability to impede opponents’ plays while 11.8 turnover rate could pose potential threats against Kent State.
Kent State Golden Flashes have proven themselves an equally formidable opponent despite their.500 record. Averaging 77.3 points per game on 44.7% shooting efficiency from the field and boasting 77.6% free-throw success rate; they also average 34.9 rebounds per game defensively while also boasting an impressive ball theft ability with 7.5 steals per game on defense; their higher turnover rate (13.1) may pose challenges against Akron in this matchup.
Akron Zips vs. Kent State Golden Flashes 1/19/24 Game Info
| When: | Friday, January 19, 2024 at 7:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Memorial A & C Center |
| TV: | ESPU |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Enrique Freeman (Forward) vs. Chris Payton Jr. (Forward)
Enrique Freeman has been an outstanding performer this season for Akron. Through 16 games, he’s averaged 18.3 points and 13.1 rebounds per game at 59.2% field goal percentage; also pulling down rebounds with his ability to block shots (1.44 per game); freeman is an effective defensive presence with 1 block and 1.4 turnovers per game, though needs to work on his 2.8 turnovers per game and 69.3% free throw shooting against teams like Kent State.
Chris Payton Jr. has also been instrumental in Kent State’s Golden Flashes’ success, contributing 14.7 points and 8.3 rebounds per game over 16 matches for Kent State. His shooting efficiency stands at 49.1% from the field and an admirable 37.5% from beyond the arc; furthermore his 75.3% success rate from free throw line is commendable while turnovers could use some work (an average of 2.1 per game).
Freeman and Payton Jr. will likely be one of the highlights of this game, each providing both offensive and defensive prowess on the court. Freeman’s strong rebounding and inside scoring could face off against Payton Jr.’s versatile scoring and stellar defense to determine its flow and outcome. Their performances could play an outsized role in how this matchup plays out.
NCAAB Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
Betting odds and point spreads have yet to be set in this game; however, given Akron’s strong record and recent form, they could emerge as favorites. Bettors should closely track odds as they become available for an informed decision.
Akron Zips Betting Trends
Akron has shown great improvement both in games and against the spread, posting four wins from their last five and going three for three against the spread in that span. Their road performances (3-3 against the spread) indicate their ability to handle pressure in away game environments. Bettors should be wary that totals have only gone over in two of Akron’s last five contests.
Kent State Golden Flashes Betting Trends
Kent State, despite their balanced record, have experienced difficulties recently both in their games (1-4) and against the spread (1-4) in their last five. Road games against the spread (1-5) exhibited similar difficulties while totals have gone OVER in eight of eight home games which may indicate a trend that should be noted when placing over/under bets.
Akron Zips vs. Kent State Golden Flashes 1/19/24 Betting Picks
Based on statistics, trends, and key player matchups, this game tilts slightly toward Akron Zips due to their superior overall performance and consistent play against the spread – however their opponent, Golden Flashes of Cleveland can often engage in high-scoring contests at home which makes for interesting contests.
Bettor should consider betting on Akron’s ability to cover the spread. Kent State tends to host high-scoring home games that could open up an opportunity to bettors; alternatively, individual performance prop bets on players like Enrique Freeman and Chris Payton Jr could provide value given their impactful contributions to both teams.
In the field of top sports handicapping, where understanding the nuances and trends of each team is crucial, this game presents an interesting challenge. The Akron Zips’ balanced approach and statistical advantages seem to give them the edge, but Kent State’s ability to elevate their game, especially in high-scoring scenarios at home, could lead to an upset.
Free Pick and Prediction: Akron Zips 76, Kent State Golden Flashes 71