Can Oregon State Win Second Straight?

Oregon State has been up and down, but they have come off a big win in the last game. Orgon State faced off against Pacific in the last game and they were able to secure the 79-65 victory. Josiah Lake had a strong game putting up 16 points, five rebounds,  and two assists. There were six different players that put up at least 11 points, and they are going to need a balanced offensive attack again here. In the second half the defense gave up only 25 points and they are going to need the defense to step up in a big way again here. 

Oregon State sits with an 18-9 record overall and they have gone 18-9 against the spread and they have gone 17-8 against the spread. Oregon State is averaging 76.5 points while their defense is giving up 67.76 points per game. The offense has been good, but the defense has actually been the strength and is ranked 63rd in the league. Michael Rataj is averaging 17.1 points while shooting 49.5 percent from the field. 

Why Oregon State Will Beat Pepperdine

Pepperdine has lost 20 of its last 25 night games against Conference opponents at Firestone Fieldhouse.

Can Pepperdine Bounce Back?

Two games ago, Pepperdine faced off against San Diego, and they were able to secure an 88-81 victory. In the last game against Gonzaga though, it wasn’t much of the same, and they ended up losing 107-55. At halftime they were down 55-26 and in the second half they couldn’t get anything better. Danilo Dozic did have a strong game putting up 12 points, four rebounds, and three assists. There were three players who found offensive success,  but outside of those there just wasn’t any production. 

Pepperdine sits with a 10-17 record overall and they have gone 12-14 against the spread. At home this season they sit with a 6-7 record overall. Pepperdine is averaging 72.2 points while their defense is giving up 75.2 points per game. The offense is ranked 238th in the league while the defense is ranked 276th. Stefan Todorovic has been the top player this season averaging 18.7 points while shooting 45.1 percent from the field and 39.4 percent from behind the three point line. 

Pepperdine vs Oregon State Prediction

Oregon State is going to get the job done here with ease. Pepperdine’s defense is giving up 75.2 points per game, and they are going to really struggle to defend here. Oregon State is averaging 76.5 points per game, and they are going to put on an offensive show here. Pepperdine is going to struggle to keep up with their offense, and they are going to get the job done here. Back Oregon State against the spread here. 

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Pepperdine Waves Betting Preview

The Waves really only have one solid stretch of games in the books so far this year. Otherwise it’s been a struggle in the win column. Pepperdine opened up on a 1-5 run with a win over Western Illinois followed by losses to UC San Diego, UC Irvine, UNLV, Northwestern and Cal State Fullerton. A 5-2 run came next with losses to Weber State and Long Beach State mixed among wins versus New Mexico State, Life Pacific, Grambling, Northern Arizona and UC Davis. The Waves would go 1-6 in their next seven with a lone win over Pacific among losses to Santa Clara, Gonzaga, Saint Mary’s, San Francisco, Saint Mary’s again and Oregon State. Following two wins over Pacific and San Diego, the Waves fell to Portland Washington State and LMU in the next three, giving the team a 9-16 overall run through 25 games.

In their Thursday matchup with San Diego, the Waves were up 44-39 at the break then scored another 44 points from there during an 88-81 win. Stefan Todorovic led the way on 24 points with five rebounds in the victory.

Gonzaga Bulldogs Betting Preview

Over on the Gonzaga side, they’ve got a couple of spotty runs in the books so far but overall they’re not doing too badly all things considered. The Bulldogs opened on a 7-3 run with losses to West Virginia, Kentucky and UConn. The wins came versus Baylor, Arizona State, UMass Lowell, San Diego State, Long Beach State, Indiana and Davidson in that time. A 7-1 run came next with a loss to UCLA amid wins over Nicholls, Bucknell, Pepperdine, Portland, Loyola Marymount, San Diego and Washington State. After losses to Oregon State and Santa Clara, Gonzaga hit a 4-1 run with a lone loss to Saint Mary’s. The wins otherwise in that time came courtesy of Portland, Oregon State, Loyola Marymount and Pacific in succession, giving the Bulldogs an 18-7 record across their first 25 outings of the season.

Matched up against San Francisco on Thursday, Gonzaga went into halftime with a 38-38 tie on their hands. The Bulldogs got it going in the second with a 50-39 run and took the eventual win 88-77, though. Leading the team in scoring with double doubles were Graham Ike (18 points; 13 rebounds; one steal) and Ryan Nembhard (18 points; 12 assists; two rebounds). Ben Gregg added 11 points with two assists. Tops off the bench were Braden Huff (two assists) and Michael Ajayi (10 rebounds), each with 12 points in the victory.

Why the Gonzaga Bulldogs will win

• Gonzaga has won 88 of its last 92 night games at McCarthey Athletic Center.
• Pepperdine has lost 41 of its last 50 night games against the West Coast Conference.
• Gonzaga has won the first half in 56 of its last 60 night games at McCarthey Athletic Center.

Why the Pepperdine Waves will win

• The road team has won three of the last four games between Pepperdine and Gonzaga.
• Pepperdine has won the first half in five of its last six games against the West Coast Conference.

Gonzaga vs Pepperdine Prediction

I’ll stick with Gonzaga here, but the line’s too thick to mess with in reality. On Thursday the Bulldogs played a great second half against a talented San Francisco team and pulled off the double-digit win in the end. Gonzaga posted 52.3 percent shooting from the field with a 41-28 rebounding edge in that one. Still, the Bulldogs went a fairly tepid 28.6 percent (4-of-14) from 3-point range and missed seven of their 23 free throws (69.6 percent) so it wasn’t perfect. During each of their last five wins, Gonzaga has scored 73 or more points and they should notch a nice total on Saturday as well.

These teams last saw each other back on December 30 in an 89-82 road win for the Bulldogs. Gonzaga was a mixed bag in that one, but a hot start 50-32 in the first half helped propel the win. The Bulldogs hit 54.5 percent from the floor but just 2-of-15 (13.3 percent) from outside. The 13 turnovers for 16 Waves points didn’t help matters either. Gonzaga certainly has a few things to clean up in this home rematch, but the familiar environment should help minimize their mistakes.

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Pepperdine Recap

The Pepperdine Waves come into this game looking to bounce back after a 74-50 loss at the hands of Saint Mary’s last time out to fall to 7-12 on the year. After this game, Pepperdine will head home for a matchup with Pacific.

Waves Drop Back-To-Back Games

Stefan Todorovic has 18.9 PPG to lead Pepperdine in scoring along with 5.6 RPG and 2.3 APG while Moe Odum has 12.3 PPG with a team-high 7 APG to lead Pepperdine in assists as the only other double-digit scorer for Pepperdine up to this point in the year. Boubacar Coulibaly has 9.5 PPG with a team-high 7 RPG while Dovydas Butka has 7.8 PPG with 6.7 RPG so far this season. As a team, Pepperdine is averaging 72.4 PPG on 45.1% shooting from the field, 33.2% from behind the arc, and 71.2% from the foul line this season.

Why the Pepperdine Waves will win

• The road team has won four of Pepperdine’s last five games.
• Oregon State has lost three of its last four night games against non-AP-ranked opponents.

Oregon State Recap

The Oregon State Beavers come into this game looking to bounce back from an 81-70 loss at the hands of San Francisco last time out to drop to 14-6 on the year. After this game, Oregon State will welcome Santa Clara to town.

Beavers Looking To Get Back On Track

Michael Rataj leads the Beavers in scoring and rebounding with 17.2 PPG and 8.3 RPG while Nate Kingz has 11.6 PPG and Parsa Fallah has 12.4 PPG with 3.6 RPG. Damarco Minor also has 10 PPG with 4.6 RPG and a team-high 5.2 APG to lead the Beavers in assists on the year and to cap off the group of double-digit scorers for Oregon State up to this point in the year. As a team, Oregon State is averaging 77.9 PPG on 49% shooting from the field, 37.5% from three, and 78.6% from the foul line this season.

Why the Oregon State Beavers will win

• Oregon State has won each of its last seven home games.
• Pepperdine has lost each of its last seven night games against the West Coast Conference.

Oregon State vs Pepperdine Prediction

I’m on Oregon State here. I just have my concerns with Pepperdine, that they’re still one of the lower-tier teams in the WCC that do what teams like the Waves, Pacific, Portland, and San Diego do year after year, and that’s cannibalizing each other at the bottom of the WCC standings while the rest of the conference beats down on them. Now it’s hard to know right away if that’s going to be something that Oregon State follows suit with, but the Beavers have been so strong at home this season and aren’t really a team I want to step in front of when Pepperdine is the alternative. The Beavers have already beaten similar teams like Pacific on the road by 36 and San Diego at home by 27. I’m not saying this is a big margin like that, but I think that Oregon State can get the win and cover at home here. Give me the Beavers.

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Pepperdine Recap

The Pepperdine Waves come into this game looking to bounce back after dropping to 6-9 on the year thanks to an 89-82 loss to Gonzaga last time out. After this game, the Waves will meet Pacific and Loyola Marymount.

Waves Drop Back-To-Back Games

Stefan Todorovic has 19.5 PPG to lead Pepperdine in scoring along with 5.5 RPG and 2.3 APG while Moe Odum has 12.9 PPG with a team-high 7.5 RPG to lead Pepperdine in assists as the only other double-digit scorer for Pepperdine up to this point in the year. Boubacar Coulibaly has 9.5 PPG with 7.3 RPG while Dovydas Butka has 8 PPG with a team-high 7.6 RPG to lead the Waves in rebounding so far this season. As a team, Pepperdine is averaging 75.7 PPG on 46.2% shooting from the field, 34.6% from behind the arc, and 73.5% from the foul line this season.

Saint Mary’s Recap

The Saint Mary’s Gaels come into this game looking for another W after ending up with a 70-60 win over Pacific last time out to improve to 11-3 on the year. After this game, Saint Mary’s will head on the road to take on the Portland Pilots.

Gaels Looking To Find Some Consistency

Augustas Marciulionis leads the Gaels in scoring and assists with 14.2 PPG and 6.4 APG while Paulius Murauskas has 13.4 PPG and 8.9 RPG to lead the Gaels on the glass this season. Luke Barrett has 11.1 PPG with 7.4 RPG and Mitchell Saxen has 10 PPG with 7.6 RPG to cap off the group of double-digit scorers for Saint Mary’s up to this point in the year. Mikey Lewis has 8.9 PPG as well on the year. As a team, Saint Mary’s is averaging 74.9 PPG on 44.9% shooting from the field, 32.5% from three, and 66.6% from the foul line this season.

Why the Saint Mary’s Gaels will win

• Saint Mary’s has won each of its last 16 night games at University Credit Union Pavilion against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• Pepperdine has lost each of its last six games at University Credit Union Pavilion.

Total Points Facts

• Each of Pepperdine’s last five games against non-AP-ranked opponents at University Credit Union Pavilion have produced a total of 138 or fewer points.
• Six of the last seven games between Pepperdine and Saint Mary’s have produced a total of 140 or fewer points.

St. Mary’s vs Pepperdine Prediction

I’m on Pepperdine in this one. If you look at past results, you’d probably jump on Saint Mary’s in a heartbeat, and I don’t blame you one bit. However, this just doesn’t feel like the same Gaels team that we’ve seen from Randy Bennett in past seasons, as the defense is there, but they’re not as dominant in winning games with defense. I mean, Saint Mary’s has owned Pacific over the years and let the Tigers hang around for a lot of the second half in that last game and only managed to win by 10 points against Pacific. Pepperdine’s gone toe-to-toe with Gonzaga and Santa Clara through their first two conference games, and those are two teams I have as finishing in the top 4 in the WCC at year’s end. I think Pepperdine will be competitive here as well, and this is just a case of too many points. Give me the Gaels.

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Gonzaga Bulldogs Betting Preview

Gonzaga opened the season with a nice five-game win streak, then hit a rough 2-3 patch. Those losses came versus West Virginia, Kentucky, and UConn. Afterward came wins over Nicholls and Bucknell in the next pair, though.

On Saturday versus UCLA, the Bulldogs fought to a 27-25 halftime deficit. Gonzaga hit a 38-37 deficit from there and took a tough loss in the end 65-62. Leading team scorer Graham Ike finished with 24 points and eight rebounds.

Pepperdine Waves Betting Preview

Over on the Pepperdine side, they skidded to a 2-6 start with losses to UC San Diego, UC Irvine, UNLV, Northwestern, and Weber State. The Waves would beat Life Pacific, Grambling, Northern Arizona, and UC Davis in the next five outings.

In their game versus Santa Clara on Saturday, the Waves were down 52-43 by the break. Pepperdine didn’t end up closing the gap on a 39-37 deficit from there and fell 91-80. Tops in scoring was Stefan Todorovic with 25 points and four assists.

Pepperdine vs Gonzaga Prediction

I’ll lean toward Gonzaga, even with a pretty thick line. The Bulldogs are coming off a disappointing outing versus a good UCLA squad despite shooting a solid 45.5 percent from the field and holding the Bruins to 36.4 percent on the other side. The loss stemmed from Gonzaga only getting to the line eight times (making five) and coughing up 15 turnovers for 18 UCLA points. The Bulldogs have now lost three straight versus ranked squads, but they’re still excelling lately against teams they should beat on paper. That’ll be the case here.

As for Pepperdine, they gave up 50.7 percent shooting in their loss to Santa Clara and gave up 11 turnovers for 21 Broncos points. The Waves have scored well lately with 76 or more points in six straight games. That said, I don’t think Pepperdine will find much daylight against an angry Gonzaga team out to prove themselves after a tough loss.

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Weber State Wildcats Betting Preview

The Weber State Wildcats lost to UC Irvine, beat Bowling Green, and they play North Dakota State, North Dakota, and Utah Tech next. The Weber State Wildcats are coming off losses to Colgate and Utah Valley. The Weber State Wildcats are averaging 78 points on 44.7 percent shooting and allowing 68.6 points on 40.7 percent shooting. Blaise Threatt is averaging 17.7 points and 4.8 rebounds, while Dyson Koehler is averaging 11.2 points and 0.3 assists. Miguel Tomley is dishing 1.7 assists and Nigel Burris is grabbing 4.5 rebounds. The Weber State Wildcats are shooting 36.5 percent from beyond the arc and 66.4 percent from the free throw line. The Weber State Wildcats are allowing 34.1 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 34.9 rebounds per game.

Pepperdine Waves Betting Preview

The Pepperdine Waves lost to Cal State Fullerton, beat New Mexico State, and they play Grambling, Northern Arizona, and Long Beach State next. The Pepperdine Waves are averaging 67 points on 43.2 percent shooting and allowing 75.6 points on 43.2 percent shooting. Stefan Todorovic is averaging 19.3 points and 5.8 rebounds, while Moe Odum is averaging 11 points and 6.3 assists. Boubacar Coulibaly is grabbing 6.5 rebounds and Zion Bethea is dishing 0.8 assists. The Pepperdine Waves are shooting 31.2 percent from beyond the arc and 75 percent from the free throw line. The Pepperdine Waves are allowing 32.5 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 32.4 rebounds per game.

Pepperdine vs Weber State Prediction

Give the Pepperdine Waves credit for upsetting New Mexico State yesterday, but it’s their only decent result up to this point, and that offense continues to have issues finishing possessions. The Weber State Wildcats have been more consistent across the board, and their above-average defense should give the Waves issues. Assuming the line isn’t anything too crazy, give me Weber State to keep things rolling.

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Pepperdine Has Lost Two Straight Games

Pepperdine has lost two straight games and they have so major issues heading into this game. Pepperdine faced off against UC Irvine in the last game and they scored 80 points while the defense gave up 62 points and that led to the 18-point defeat. Stefan Todorovic put up 17 points and two rebounds. Pepperdine is averaging 71.7 points, while their defense is giving up 79.3 points per game. The offense is ranked 275th in the league, while the defense is ranked 318th. Stefan Todorovic is averaging 25 points while shooting 61.1 percent from behind the three-point line.

UNLV Looks to Build on Last Game

UNLV faced off against Omaha in the last game and they were able to secure the victory. UNLV scored 80 points, and they ended up winning by 11 points. UNLV was led by Jalen Hill who put up 17 points, eight rebounds, and one assist. UNLV is averaging 82.3 points whereas defense is giving up 76 points per game. The offense is ranked 118th, while the defense is ranked 270th. Dedan Thomas Jr has been the top player for UNLV putting up 18 points while shooting 41.9 percent from the field and 50 percent from behind the three-point line. In this game, if UNLV wants to find success, they are going to need the offense to get out to a fast start to put the pressure on.

Why UNLV Will Beat Pepperdine

• UNLV has won seven of its last eight games against non-conference opponents at Thomas & Mack Center.
• Pepperdine has lost six of its last seven night games against the Mountain West Conference.

UNLV vs Pepperdine Prediction

These are both teams that have been good with their offense to start, and they like to put the pressure on. Pepperdine is coming off a game where they scored 80 points, and UNLV is averaging 82.3 points per game. There is going to be very little defense played by either team here, and that will be the difference, as this game is going to end up being a shootout. Back the over to cash. 

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Pepperdine Waves

The Waves got off to a shaky 9-10 start this year, then took a rough six-game losing streak from January into February. Pepperdine went 3-3 over the next six outings with wins over LMU, Portland and Pacific alongside losses to Saint Mary’s (twice) and San Francisco in that time.

In Wednesday’s tournament game versus Pacific, the Waves rolled from the opening tip. Pepperdine was up by a ridiculous 56-9 margin by halftime, then hit 46 more points in a 102-43 win. Jevon Porter was tops on the team with 28 points and 11 rebounds alongside three assists.

More College Basketball Picks: UIC vs Bradley Prediction!

San Diego Toreros

Over on the Toreros’ side, they were .500 through 20 games in late January. San Diego hit a 6-1 stretch from there with wins over Portland, Pepperdine, Santa Clara, LMU and Pacific. After losses to Santa Clara, Saint Mary’s and LMU the Toreros bounced back with a win over Pacific in their last outing.

Back on Saturday versus Pacific, the Toreros finished off the regular season with a home win. San Diego was up 45-37 going into the second half, then hit a 36-32 run the rest of the way for a victory 81-69. Deuce Turner topped the team on 30 points with one rebound and one assist.

ANDREW’S FREE PEPPERDINE VS SAN DIEGO PREDICTION

I’ll probably take a stab on San Diego here. The Toreros didn’t have too much trouble with Pacific in their last outing despite an off shooting night with 40.9 percent from the field. The key stat in that one was the Toreros’ 23 points off 13 Tigers turnovers.

The season series here was a split, with the road team bagging a win each time. The most recent game was on January 27: a tight 69-67 San Diego win. The Toreros shot a solid 45.6 percent from the field in that one but posted a dud from 3-point range on just 1-of-15 (6.7 percent). San Diego also notched 13 turnovers in that tight victory. This one’s probably going to be close as well. If the Toreros want to move on they’re going to have to clean up the outside shooting and ball control. Should be a fun matchup regardless.

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Pacific Has Some Issues

Pacific is having some issues heading into this game and coming into this game they have lost 15 games in a row. In the last game against San Diego, Pacific scored 69 points and they ended up losing by 12 points. Two games ago against Loyola Marymount, Pacific scored 63 points and they ended up losing by 23 points. Pacific is averaging 65.4 points while their defense is giving up 79.1 points per game. Donovan Williams is averaging 9.9 points while shooting 35.1 percent from the field and 23.2 percent from behind the three point line. 

More College Basketball Picks: Texas State vs Southern Mississippi Prediction!

Pepperdine Has Lost Two Games in a Row

Pepperdine has lost two games in a row and the defense has been an issue. Two games ago against San Francisco, Pepperdine gave up 92 points and in the last game against St Mary’s they gave up 83 points. Pepperdine is averaging 72.5 points while their defense is giving up 75.6 points per game. The defense has been awful this season, and they are going to need the defense to be better here. Michael Ajayi is averaging 17.2 points while shooting 46.1 percent from the field and 48.1 percent from behind the three point line. 

Pacific vs Pepperdine Betting Prediction

Pacific is averaging 65.4 points per game and they are going to really struggle in this game. Pepperdine is averaging 72.5 points and they are going to have no issue running up the score against the Pacific defense. Pacific is giving up 79.1 points and they are going have no issue running up the score. Pepperdine is going to run up the score and they are going to cover the spread here. Back Pepperdine against the spread here. 

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Saint Mary’s is a Serious Contender

I believe that Saint Mary’s might be the most serious contender out of the WCC, and they are playing some really good basketball heading into this game. In the last game against San Diego, Saint Mary’s offense scored 88 points and that led to the blowout victory. Saint Mary’s shot 55.9 percent from the field, and good shooting has been a common theme for this team all season. Saint Mary’s is averaging 74.6 points while their defense is giving up 58.1 points per game. The defense is ranked 2nd in all of college basketball, and when you talk about Saint Mary’s that’s usually the side of the ball that is getting the attention. Aidan Maheny is averaging 13.9 points while shooting 38.8 percent from the field and 34.8 percent from behind the three point line.

More College Basketball Picks: USC vs Washington State Prediction!

Can Pepperdine’s Defense Make Enough Stops?

Pepperdine’s defense has been inconsistent, and the big question is will the defense make enough stops here. In the last game against San Francisco, Pepperdine’s defense gave up 92 points, and the offense really didn’t have a shot to keep up. Jevon Porter had a strong game putting up 23 points, five rebounds, and two assists. Pepperdine is averaging 73.1 points while their defense is giving up 75.3 points per game. The offense is ranked 205th in the league but this game is going to come down to the defense making the stops. Michael Ajayi is averaging 17.5 points while shooting 46.6 percent from the field and 48.1 percent from behind the three point line. 

Saint Mary’s vs Pepperdine Betting Prediction

This game is going to come down to the defense and one team is much better than the other. Saint Mary’s defense is giving up 58.1 points per game and they are going to really step up in this game. Pepperdine is giving up 75.3 points per game, and Saint Mary’s is coming off a game where they scored 88 points. Look for Saint Mary’s offense to put on a show here and they will get close to that 88 point mark they scored in the last game. Pepperdine is going to struggle against the elite Saint Mary’s defense, and this game is going to be a blowout. Back Saint Mary’s against the spread. 

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Pepperdine Waves

The Waves have had a pretty choppy season so far. Pepperdine kicked off the year on a 7-8 run but since then have gone just 3-8 in their last 11 outings. The losses in that time have come versus Gonzaga (twice), Santa Clara (twice), LMU, San Diego, Portland and San Francisco.

Pepperdine was able to get back into the win column versus LMU in their rematch on Saturday. Following a 30-29 edge in the first half, the Waves hit a 42-34 run in the second for a 72-63 win. Leading team scorer Michael Ajayi posted 17 points with 13 rebounds in 40 minutes of action.

More College Basketball Picks: Minnesota vs Purdue Prediction!

Saint Mary’s Gaels

Over on the Gaels’ side, they’ve been doing quite well this year. Saint Mary’s did lose six of their first 14 games, but since then they’ve been on a win streak over Kent State, San Diego, LMU (twice), Portland (twice), Santa Clara (twice), San Francisco and Pacific (twice) in the last dozen outings.

In their latest matchup versus Portland back on Saturday, the Gaels didn’t have too many issues. Saint Mary’s was up 38-26 in the locker room, then finished off on a 38-25 run for a 76-51 victory. Tops on the team was Aidan Mahaney with 19 points, seven rebounds and three assists.

ANDREW’S FREE PEPPERDINE VS SAINT MARY’S PREDICTION

I’ll stay with the Gaels, but the line’s a little too thick to mess with. Saint Mary’s is on a tear right now and coming off a blowout victory over Portland. The Gaels didn’t shoot all that well from the field (40.6 percent) but they were great on defense with a 46-31 rebounding advantage and 31.6 percent shooting allowed. Saint Mary’s has scored 68 or more points in all but two games during this current win streak.

As for Pepperdine, they’re coming off a much-needed win themselves. Despite the rough record recently the Waves haven’t been scoring too badly; 67 or more points in five straight games. That said, Saint Mary’s should be comfortable at home here and I don’t think Pepperdine will keep pace if the Gaels are on point.

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San Francisco Dons

The Dons have had a solid year thus far and lost just six of their first 21 games. Those defeats came at the hands of Boise State, Grand Canyon, Arizona State, Utah State, Saint Mary’s and Gonzaga. Since then San Francisco has rattled off wins over Portland, San Diego and Pacific in their last trio.

In the Pacific matchup on Saturday, the Dons held a five-point lead in the locker room. San Francisco kept it up in the second half with a 45-44 run and took the victory 79-73. Leading team scorer Marcus Williams finished with 20 points, four rebounds, four assists and two steals.

More College Basketball Picks: Washington vs Oregon Prediction!

Pepperdine Waves

Over on the Waves’ side, they were only able to muster nine wins in their first 19 games versus Concordia-Irvine, Lafayette, LIU, Idaho State, UC San Diego, William & Mary, Westcliff, Pacific and San Diego. Pepperdine has since lost to Gonzaga, LMU, Santa Clara, San Diego and Portland in succession.

Matched up against Portland in their Saturday game, the Waves were outscored 52-41 by halftime. Pepperdine got better from there and made a second-half run 48-41 but still lost 93-89. Houston Mallette topped the team with his 28 points, four rebounds and three assists.

Pepperdine Waves Team Facts

• Pepperdine has lost 29 of its last 32 night games against the West Coast Conference.
• Each of the last five night games between San Francisco and Pepperdine have produced a total of 153+ points.
• Pepperdine has lost the first half in 25 of its last 31 night games against the West Coast Conference.

San Francisco Dons Team Facts

• San Francisco has won each of its last eight games at Firestone Fieldhouse.
• Five of San Francisco’s last six night games against the West Coast Conference have produced a total of 149+ points.
• San Francisco has won the first half in 12 of its last 13 games against non-AP-ranked opponents.

ANDREW’S FREE SAN FRANCISCO VS PEPPERDINE PREDICTION

I’ll stick with San Francisco. The Dons are playing well right now and coming off another solid win. San Francisco shot 50.9 percent from the field with a 36-21 rebounding edge (11-2 offensive) versus Pacific in their last outing, but did have 16 turnovers in a sloppy outing. Still, you can’t argue with the Dons’ offense lately; they’ve hit 72 or more points in four straight games (a 3-1 run).

As for Pepperdine, they’re on a rough five-game losing streak but their last two defeats have each come by four points or fewer. The Waves should be more comfortable at home in this one, but I don’t think they’ve got the gas to keep pace with the Dons.

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Gonzaga Bulldogs

The Bulldogs started out the year on a 7-1 run with only a loss to Purdue mixed in. Since then it’s been a sketchy 4-4 run however, with losses to Washington, UConn, San Diego State and Santa Clara alongside wins over MS Valley State, Jackson State, Pepperdine and San Diego.

Last Thursday versus Santa Clara, Gonzaga took another tough loss. After falling behind 40-34 in the first half, the Bulldogs recovered on a 42-37 run but still fell 77-76. Leading the team in the losing effort was Anton Watson with 32 points, nine rebounds and six steals in 40 minutes of action. Gonzaga will face San Diego and San Francisco after this game.

Pepperdine Waves

Over on the Waves’ side, they went just 5-8 over their first 13 games with wins over Concordia-Irvine, Lafayette, LIU, Idaho State and UC San Diego. Pepperdine is 4-2 in their last six games though, beating William & Mary, Westcliff, Pacific and San Diego along the way.

Back on Saturday in the San Diego matchup, the Waves took a 48-35 deficit into the locker room. Pepperdine surged in the second half on a 48-29 run however, taking a comeback win 83-77. Michael Ajayi doubled on 24 points and 12 rebounds, while Houston Mallette added 23 points and five assists.

ANDREW’S FREE GONZAGA VS PEPPERDINE PREDICTION

I’m going to stay with Gonzaga. The Bulldogs really need to bounce back with a strong performance after the loss to Santa Clara, though. In that one, Gonzaga was ice cold from outside with 10 percent 3-point shooting (2-of-20) and got out-rebounded 44-31. The good news for the Bulldogs is that they’ve hit 74 or more points in five straight games and beat Pepperdine 86-60 the last time these teams met up on January 4.

In the matchup earlier this month, Gonzaga shot very well (56.1 percent) and hit eight of 19 attempts from outside (42.1 percent) alongside a 41-31 rebounding advantage. The Bulldogs are going to need another good all-around effort in this rematch, but I think they can do it.

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Pepperdine Waves 

Pepperdine managed a 7-16 record over their first 23 outings this year. the Waves are just 2-5 in their last seven games, taking losses to Pacific, San Francisco, Gonzaga, Santa Clara and LMU with wins over Portland and BYU otherwise in that stretch. 

Back on Saturday versus LMU, Pepperdine went into the break with a 28-25 edge. The Waves were outscored 50-39 from there however and lost 75-67. Jan Zidek led the team on 22 points with five rebounds in the defeat. 

Pacific Tigers 

Over on the Pacific side, they hit a .500 clip for most of the year, going 12-12 over their first 24 games. In their last seven the Tigers are just 2-5 however, falling to BYU, Portland, San Francisco, LMU and St. Mary’s during that run. 

Pacific played Portland on Saturday, holding a 38-37 edge in the locker room. The Tigers managed a 43-40 advantage in the second half and won the game 81-77. Both Luke Avdalovic and Cam Denson put up 12 points apiece to lead the way. 

ANDREW’S FREE PICK 

I’m going to stick with Pacific. The Tigers posted a solid all-around win over a comparable Portland team on Saturday, with six different players scoring in double-figures. The victory halted a three-game losing streak for the Tigers, but they’d still been scoring well. Pacific has hit 68 or more points in six straight games. These teams have met twice already this year. Pacific took both games: 80-75 at Firestone Fieldhouse on January 7, and 81-73 at Alex G. Spanos Center back on February 2. The Tigers should have the advantage in this one as well, and if they play to their capabilities I like Pacific to power out the cover/win. 

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The Loyola Marymount Lions Betting Preview

The Loyola Marymount Lions are averaging 75.3 points on 45.5 percent shooting and allowing 72.8 points on 45.1 percent shooting. Cam Shelton is averaging 20.2 points and 5.5 rebounds, while Keli Leaupepe is averaging 13.5 points and 6.9 rebounds. Jalin Anderson is the third double-digit scorer and Alex Merkviladze is grabbing 4 rebounds. The Loyola Marymount Lions are shooting 36.2 percent from beyond the arc and 67.9 percent from the free throw line. The Loyola Marymount Lions are allowing 31.9 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 33.4 rebounds per game.

The Pepperdine Waves Betting Preview

The Pepperdine Waves are averaging 78.5 points on 46.4 percent shooting and allowing 81.1 points on 45.7 percent shooting. Maxwell Lewis is averaging 17.7 points and 5.7 rebounds, while Houston Mallette is averaging 13.7 points and 2.6 assists. Jevon Porter is the third double-digit scorer and Mike Mitchell Jr. is dishing 4.9 assists. The Pepperdine Waves are shooting 36.1 percent from beyond the arc and 71 percent from the free throw line. The Pepperdine Waves are allowing 35.3 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 33.6 rebounds per game.

Loyola Marymount vs Pepperdine Trends 

The Lions are 5-13-1 ATS in their last 19 road games and 8-2-1 ATS in their last 11 games following a ATS loss. The Waves are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games overall. The over is 5-1-1 in Lions last 7 overall. The over is 20-7-1 in Waves last 28 overall. The underdog is 6-2 ATS in the last 8 meetings.

Randy’s Free Pick

The Loyola Marymount Lions have been the better team this season, but they’re not playing great ball entering this game, and that includes losing their last 5 games by an average of 9.4 points. The Pepperdine Waves are at their best at home, where they win by an average of 4.9 points. This is a winnable game for Pepperdine. Give me the bucket.

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The Pepperdine Waves Betting Preview

The Pepperdine Waves are averaging 78.5 points on 46.4 percent shooting and allowing 81.1 points on 45.7 percent shooting. Maxwell Lewis is averaging 17.7 points and 5.7 rebounds, while Houston Mallette is averaging 13.7 points and 2.6 assists. Jevon Porter is the third double-digit scorer and Mike Mitchell Jr. is dishing 4.9 assists. The Pepperdine Waves are shooting 36.1 percent from beyond the arc and 71 percent from the free throw line. The Pepperdine Waves are allowing 35.3 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 33.6 rebounds per game.

The Santa Clara Broncos Betting Preview

The Santa Clara Broncos are averaging 76.7 points on 45.2 percent shooting and allowing 73 points on 43.5 percent shooting. Brandin Podziemski is averaging 19.5 points and 8.4 rebounds, while Carlos Stewart is averaging 15.3 points and 2.3 rebounds. Keshawn Justice is the third double-digit scorer and Carlos Marshall Jr. is dishing 1.3 assists. The Santa Clara Broncos are shooting 36.9 percent from beyond the arc and 71.5 percent from the free throw line. The Santa Clara Broncos are allowing 36.1 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 35 rebounds per game.

Pepperdine vs Santa Clara Trends 

The Waves are 7-19 ATS in their last 26 road games and 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games overall. The Broncos are 8-2 ATS in their last 10 Thursday games. The over is 19-7-1 in Waves last 27 overall. The over is 7-3 in Broncos last 10 overall.

Randy’s Free Pick

The Pepperdine Waves aren’t a good team that’s not getting any better, and they’re 2-9 ATS on the road, where they lose by an average of 13.4 points. The Santa Clara Broncos don’t comfortably win games despite their record, but they’re easily the better team here, and oddsmakers think this won’t be close. Give me the home favorite.

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Gonzaga Bulldogs

Gonzaga got off to a 16-4 run over their first 20 games with losses to Texas, Purdue, Baylor and LMU in that time. The Bulldogs hit a 5-1 run in the next six with wins over Pacific, Portland, Santa Clara, San Francisco and BYU. 

In the Thursday matchup versus LMU, the Bulldogs drilled the Lions 68-28 in the first half. Gonzaga hit a 40-37 run the rest of the way and won 108-65. Julian Strawther was the high man on 30 points and three rebounds. 

Pepperdine Waves

Over on the Pepperdine side, they opened up the year at just 7-12 through 19 games. The Waves are just 2-6 in their last eight outings, losing to Saint Mary’s, Portland, San Diego, LMU, Pacific and San Francisco in that stretch. 

Matched up against San Francisco last weekend, the Waves were up 46-39 going into the second half. Pepperdine was outscored 49-34 from there and lost 88-80. Mike Mitchell was the top team scorer on 22 points in 34 minutes. 

ANDREW’S FREE PICK 

I might take a stab on Pepperdine in this one. The Waves have just two wins in their last 14 games and they’re struggling mightily in the record column this year. That said, Pepperdine is still scoring pretty well against some tough teams along the way. The Waves have hit 70 or more points in seven straight outings, but they’re also coughing up a truckload of points on the other side. These teams last got together back on New Year’s Eve in a 111-88 home win for Gonzaga. The Waves likely won’t win this one, but I think they can get into a cover if the team plays well. 

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The Pepperdine Waves Betting Preview

The Pepperdine Waves are averaging 78 points on 46.3 percent shooting and allowing 80.2 points on 45.1 percent shooting. Maxwell Lewis is averaging 18 points and 5.7 rebounds, while Houston Mallette is averaging 13.6 points and 2.5 assists. Jevon Porter is the third double-digit scorer and Mike Mitchell Jr. is dishing 5 assists. The Pepperdine Waves are shooting 36.1 percent from beyond the arc and 70.5 percent from the free throw line. The Pepperdine Waves are allowing 35.2 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 33.9 rebounds per game.

The San Francisco Dons Betting Preview

The San Francisco Dons are averaging 75.1 points on 44.7 percent shooting and allowing 71.7 points on 43.5 percent shooting. Khalil Shabazz is averaging 16.3 points and 5.7 rebounds, while Tyrell Roberts is averaging 15.3 points and 3.3 rebounds. Zane Meeks is the third double-digit scorer and Isaiah Hawthorne is grabbing 3.2 rebounds. The San Francisco Dons are shooting 35.6 percent from beyond the arc and 74.8 percent from the free throw line. The San Francisco Dons are allowing 32.2 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 32.3 rebounds per game.

Pepperdine vs San Francisco Trends

The Waves are 7-19 ATS in their last 26 road games and 4-14 ATS in their last 18 games overall. The Dons are 7-3 ATS in their last 10 Saturday games. The over is 15-5-1 in Waves last 21 overall. The over is 4-1 in Dons last 5 overall. The road team is 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings.

Randy’s Free Pick

The San Francisco Dons are the more talented team, and they’re at home, so I understand the line, but neither of these teams have played great over the last week. Pepperdine hasn’t played well on the road, where it’s also 1-9 ATS, but San Francisco is 2-5 ATS as a double-digit favorite. Better options out there, but give me the Waves and the points.

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The BYU Cougars Betting Preview

The BYU Cougars are averaging 75.3 points on 45.1 percent shooting and allowing 68.2 points on 42.1 percent shooting. Fousseyni Traore is averaging 12.5 points and 8.2 rebounds, while Rudi Williams is averaging 12.3 points and 3 assists. Gideon George is the third double-digit scorer and Spencer Johnson is dishing 1.4 assists. The BYU Cougars are shooting 33.1 percent from beyond the arc and 70.4 percent from the free throw line. The BYU Cougars are allowing 34 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 34.6 rebounds per game.

The Pepperdine Waves Betting Preview

The Pepperdine Waves are averaging 77.4 points on 45.8 percent shooting and allowing 80.2 points on 44.9 percent shooting. Maxwell Lewis is averaging 18.5 points and 5.9 rebounds, while Houston Mallette is averaging 13.2 points and 2.6 assists. Mike Mitchell Jr. is the third double-digit scorer and Jevon Porter is dishing 0.8 assists. The Pepperdine Waves are shooting 35.7 percent from beyond the arc and 70.6 percent from the free throw line. The Pepperdine Waves are allowing 35.7 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 34.1 rebounds per game.

BYU vs Pepperdine Trends

The Cougars are 4-9 ATS in their last 13 Thursday games. The Waves are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 home games and 3-14 ATS in their last 17 games overall. The under is 5-2 in Cougars last 7 games following a ATS win. The over is 8-2-1 in Waves last 11 overall. The underdog is 5-0-1 ATS in the last 6 meetings.

Randy’s Free Pick

The Pepperdine Waves aren’t playing well at the moment, and they’re 7-16 ATS on the year. Pepperdine loses in the underdog role by an average of 14.6 points. The BYU Cougars win as favorites by an average of 9.9 points, and they’ve proven themselves on the road as well. Kind of a thick line, but BYU should roll. I’ll lay the chalk.

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Pepperdine Waves

Pepperdine started the year on a 7-8 run with wins over Rice, Alabama State, Vanguard, UC Irvine, Northern AZ, Cal State LA and George Washington. The Waves are currently on a 10-game losing streak, most recently falling to LMU. 

On Saturday in the LMU matchup, Pepperdine trailed 48-40 going into the second half. The Waves didn’t get any closer on a 36-30 deficit from there and lost 84-70. Maxwell Lewis was tops in scoring on 21 points and seven boards. 

Pacific Tigers 

Over on the Pacific side, they beat ND State, North Dakota, UC Davis, Fresno State, Stan State, SJSU and Lamar in their first 16 games. The Tigers are 4-3 since then with losses to Santa Clara, San Francisco and Gonzaga. 

Matched up against Santa Clara on Saturday, the Tigers jumped out to a 46-39 halftime lead. Pacific scored another 49 points in the second half and won the game 95-89. Leading scorer Keylan Boone managed 27 points and three rebounds. 

ANDREW’S FREE PICK 

I’ll probably stay with Pacific. The Tigers took a few rough losses to Santa Clara, San Francisco and Gonzaga recently, but outside of that they’ve been playing well over the last seven games or so. Pacific managed an 80-75 win the last time these teams met up back on January 7 at Firestone Fieldhouse. The Tigers scored 40 points in each half there. As for the Waves, they’ve hit 70 or more points in eight of their last nine outings, so offense really isn’t the problem. This one should be another high-scoring shootout, and I like Pacific to power out the cover. 

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