Utah Valley Wolverines (9-10) vs. Seattle U Redhawks (11-8)
Utah Valley Wolverines vs. Seattle U Redhawks 1/26/24 – As the Utah Valley Wolverines prepare to face off against the Seattle U Redhawks on January 26, 2024, the NCAA basketball community is buzzing with anticipation. The Wolverines, with a 9-10 record, are set to challenge the Redhawks, who boast an 11-8 standing, at the Redhawk Center. This matchup, scheduled for a 9:00 PM ET tip-off and airing on ESPNU, is a highlight for fans and bettors alike, eagerly searching for NCAAB top picks. The game not only represents a pivotal moment in the season for both teams but also a crucial opportunity for bettors to analyze trends, stats, and predictions.
The Utah Valley Wolverines have had a rollercoaster season so far. Averaging 69 points per game, their offensive output has been decent but not overwhelming. They have managed to make 23.7 field goals per game on a 42% shooting average, showing some efficiency in their play. However, their 3-point shooting, at just 25.8%, leaves much to be desired. On the defensive end, they average 7.7 steals and 3.6 blocks per game, demonstrating a solid defensive presence. One concerning statistic for the Wolverines is their average of 12.4 turnovers per game, which could be a critical factor in a high-pressure game.
Seattle U Redhawks enter this matchup with a more dominant offensive record, averaging 75.2 points per game while being more effective at capitalizing on scoring opportunities. Their field goal percentage stands at 45% – slightly better than Utah Valley Wolverines’ 44% mark – and 33.1% 3-point shooting efficiency makes for impressive 3-pointers from beyond the arc. Defensively they average less steals and blocks (3.1) but their rebounding abilities could play an integral role in controlling game tempo.
Utah Valley Wolverines vs. Seattle U Redhawks 1/26/24 Game Info
| When: | Friday, January 26, 2024, at 9:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Redhawk Center |
| TV: | ESPNU |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Drake Allen (Guard) vs. Cameron Tyson (Guard)
Utah Valley guard Drake Allen has put together a solid junior campaign, averaging 12.3 points, 3.3 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game while shooting nearly 45% from the field. The team’s second leading scorer excels at getting to the free throw line and playing tough perimeter defense with 1.6 steals per game. While a bit turnover prone at times, Allen is the catalyst for the Wolverines offense.
For Seattle, Cameron Tyson leads the way, averaging 17.8 points per contest. The guard shoots a blistering 38.6% from 3-point range on over 7 makes per game. He chips in 4.5 rebounds and 1.1 steals as well. Tyson will look to exploit Utah Valley’s average perimeter defense in this matchup. His ability to stretch the floor will be a major factor on Friday night.
With Tyson’s elite shooting going up against Allen’s scrappy defense, these two guards battling should go a long way in determining the outcome. Tyson has a significant size advantage at 6’7, so Allen will need to play physically and not let Tyson get comfortable looks from deep. On the other end, Allen must attack and try to get Tyson in foul trouble.
NCAAB Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The current betting odds for the game remain undetermined, but based on the teams’ performances and trends, bettors will be keen to analyze the point spread and total odds once available.
Utah Valley Wolverines Betting Trends
The Wolverines are just 3-5 against the spread in their last 8 games overall. However, they have covered in 3 of their last 5 road contests. The over has hit in 3 of Utah Valley’s previous 5 outings. Backing the under could be wise given Seattle’s top-50 scoring defense. If Allen and the offense show up, this one could exceed the total. But expect a grind-it-out style game.
Seattle U Redhawks Betting Trends
Seattle is 2-3 against the spread in their last 5 contests. At home, the over is 5-3 in the Redhawks’ last 8 games. With both teams’ defenses vulnerable in different areas, betting the over on the 143 total holds some value. Seattle’s efficient offense should be able to score on the Wolverines.
Utah Valley Wolverines vs. Seattle U Redhawks 1/26/24 Betting Picks
Considering the teams’ recent form and statistical analysis, this matchup presents an interesting dynamic. While the Wolverines have shown defensive solidity, the Redhawks’ offensive potency, especially from the 3-point line, could be the determining factor. Seattle’s home advantage and their tendency to perform well in high-scoring games tilt the scale slightly in their favor.
In terms of betting, the safer pick seems to lean towards Seattle U, especially if they manage to exploit Utah Valley’s weakness from beyond the arc. Prop bets on individual player performances, particularly focusing on Tyson’s scoring and Allen’s defensive contributions, could provide additional betting opportunities. The over/under will largely depend on the total odds, but given both teams’ recent trends, a higher scoring game seems probable. Utilizing expert handicapping, bettors should keep a keen eye on the evolving odds and player matchups as the game approaches.
Free Pick and Prediction: Seattle U Redhawks 78, Utah Valley Wolverines 70