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Betting News and Notes - Jan 12

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(@mvbski)
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COLLEGE BASKETBALL

N.C. State (11-3, 3-8 ATS) at (1) North Carolina (16-0, 11-2 ATS)

North Carolina State takes a ride down Tobacco Road to Chapel Hill, N.C., for its ACC opener, hoping to put the first blemish on the archrival Tar Heels’ record.

N.C. State thumped little-known North Carolina Central 54-29 Wednesday in a non-lined game, the team’s seventh straight victory (1-3 ATS in lined contests). The Wolfpack have made a habit of beating lesser-known squads during their current run, with victories over Presbyterian, West Carolina and South Carolina State. They did, however, top Cincinnati and Seton Hall in back-to-back contests last month (1-1 ATS).

North Carolina comes in off Wednesday’s 93-81 home victory over North Carolina-Asheville in a non-lined game. The Tar Heels opened ACC play with a thrilling, last-second 90-88 overtime road win at Clemson. They failed to cash as a 5½-point chalk in that one, however, ending an 11-0 ATS run.

These two teams met three times last season, with N.C. State cashing in all three (1-2 SU). The Wolfpack posted an 83-79 home upset as a 17-point underdog, but the Tar Heels cruised to an 83-64 win as a 21-point home favorite and an 89-80 victory as a 14½-point chalk in the ACC Tournament title game in Tampa, Fla. The road team, however, is 7-3 ATS in the last 10 meetings.

UNC is averaging 92.1 points per game, second in the nation, and allowing 70.6 points. By comparison, N.C. State is averaging 67.3 points and allowing 61.3.

The Wolfpack are 2-4 ATS in road/neutral site games this season, beating Seton Hall 79-73 as a three-point pup on their last trip. N.C. State is 1-4 ATS following a SU win, 1-5 ATS in its last six starts overall and has yet to cover back-to-back lined games this season. On the positive side, the Wolfpack are 8-2 ATS in their last 10 road starts dating to last season and 4-0 ATS in their last four in ACC play.

During their current 11-1 ATS tear, the Tar Heels have cashed in five straight at home. Roy Williams’ team has been phenomenal as a big favorite, going 8-0 ATS when laying more than 16 points. Also, going back to the 2005-06 season, UNC is on further positive ATS runs of 42-20-1 overall and 23-6 at home.

For the Wolfpack, the over is on runs of 4-0 on the highway, 4-0 in ACC play, 6-1 against teams with a winning record and 24-9-2 in Saturday games. For Carolina, the over is on streaks of 6-2 overall, 10-4 in conference games and 6-1 against teams with a winning mark. Finally, the over is 6-1 in the last seven series meetings.

ATS ADVANTAGE: NORTH CAROLINA and OVER

(12) Texas (13-2, 6-4 ATS) at Missouri (10-5, 4-5 ATS)

The Longhorns hit the road for their Big 12 Conference opener, traveling to Columbia to take on Missouri.

Texas rolled past St. Mary’s 81-62 as an 8½-point home favorite last Saturday, halting an 0-3 ATS slide (1-2 SU). The Longhorns had two tough Big Ten tests prior to beating the Gaels, losing 78-72 at Michigan State as a 3½-point pup, then falling 67-66 at home to Wisconsin laying 7½ points. The Longhorns are averaging 80.5 points per game and allowing 63.1, and they are hitting 3-pointers at a 41.4 percent clip (14th best in the country).

Missouri comes in off a 96-76 victory over Missouri-Kansas City in a non-lined contest. In their last two lined games, against a bit stiffer competition, the Tigers lost at Mississippi State 87-75 as a three-point ‘dog and fell to Illinois 59-58 in St. Louis as a 3½-point chalk. The Tigers are putting up an average of 82.1 points (19th in the country) and are allowing 66.8. In addition, they have the top 3-point defense in the nation, holding opponents to just 25.8 percent from behind the line.

Texas has owned this series recently, winning nine consecutive meetings SU and ATS, including a 4-0 mark in Columbia. In last year’s lone meeting, the Longhorns posted an 88-68 rout as a nine-point home favorite.

Dating to last season, the Longhorns are 13-6 ATS overall and 6-1 ATS in road/neutral site games. They have additional positive ATS runs of 6-1 in Big 12 play, 6-2 in Saturday contests and 18-6 following a SU victory.

The Tigers are on an 8-21-1 ATS slide in conference play, and they are 7-20 ATS in their last 27 Saturday contests. Missouri has further negative ATS marks of 4-9 overall and 0-9 against teams with a winning record. On the positive side, the Tigers are 9-4 ATS at home against teams with a winning road mark (Texas is 4-1 on the highway).

The over is 11-3 in Missouri’s last 14 overall and 5-0 in its last five Big 12 games. However, the under is on runs of 3-0 for Texas overall, 4-0-1 for Texas against winning teams, 4-0-1 for the Tigers against winning teams and 15-6 for the Tigers on Saturday.

ATS ADVANTAGE: TEXAS

(13) Vanderbilt (16-0, 8-7 ATS) at Kentucky (6-7, 2-7-1 ATS)

The Commodores take their unbeaten record to Lexington to take on a struggling Kentucky squad in a Southeastern Conference matchup at Rupp Arena.

Vanderbilt opened SEC play with Wednesday’s 80-73 victory over South Carolina, but failed to cash as an 8½-point home favorite. Vandy has alternated ATS wins and losses over the past five games. The Commodores posted a few key non-conference wins, earning back-to-back home victories over ACC squads Georgia Tech and Wake Forest, along with an overtime road win at DePaul and a 97-88 home win over Massachusetts last Saturday as an 8½-point chalk.

Kentucky, conversely, has had a rough start under new coach Billy Gillispie, who left Texas A&M to take the post in Lexington. Most recently, the Wildcats lost to archrival Louisville 89-75 as a 1½-point home pup last Saturday, and their two most recent wins came against unknowns Tennessee Tech and Florida International. Kentucky suffered an 0-4 SU and ATS stretch last month, losing at home to North Carolina, on the road to Indiana and Houston, and to Alabama-Birmingham on a neutral court.

These two teams have split the last 10 games in this series. However, Vandy has claimed the last four games (2-2 ATS), including last year’s 72-67 road win as an 11½-point underdog and a 67-65 home victory as a 2½-point chalk. The Commodores lost their first 28 games against Kentucky at Rupp Arena but have won the last two in upset fashion. Still, they’re just 3-8 ATS in the last 11 meetings overall.

The Commodores are just 2-4 ATS in their last six games. However, on the positive side, they are on ATS tears of 5-0 in road/neutral site contests (4-0 ATS this season), 6-1 after a non-cover and 5-2 on Saturday. They’re also 7-3 ATS this season as a favorite of 12 points or less.

The Wildcats are mired in ATS slumps of 2-8-1 overall, 2-5 at home and 1-6 in Saturday contests. Also, they’re 0-4 ATS this season as a ‘dog of nine points or less. But Kentucky is 5-1 ATS in its last six games following a double-digit home loss.

The under has cashed in three of the last four meetings in this series. For Vandy, though, the over is on runs of 11-4 overall, 5-1 on the road, 8-1 on Saturday, 6-2 in SEC play and 15-5 following a SU win. Also, for Kentucky, the over is on streaks of 5-1 overall, 6-1 at home, 4-0 in the SEC and 5-1-1 following a double-digit home loss.

ATS ADVANTAGE: VANDERBILT and OVER

Notre Dame (12-2, 6-5 ATS) at (15) Marquette (12-2, 5-3 ATS)

The Fighting Irish put their 10-game winning streak on the line when they hit the road for the first time in nearly two months for a Big East game against 15th-ranked Marquette.

All 10 of Notre Dame’s wins during its current run have come at home, including a pair of Big East wins over West Virginia (69-56 as a one-point favorite) and UConn (73-67 as a 5½-point chalk). Nine of the team’s 12 victories have come by double-digits.

Marquette bounced back from Sunday’s ugly 79-64 loss at West Virginia with a come-from-behind 61-56 win over Seton Hall on Tuesday to improve to 2-1 in conference play. However, the Eagles never threatened to cover as a 17-point home chalk, their second straight non-cover.

The host has won five of the last six meetings dating to 1997 (3-2 ATS), including Notre Dame’s 85-73 rout of the Eagles as a 5½-point home chalk in last year’s lone clash.

The Irish have played just one true road game this year, losing 70-69 at Georgia Tech as a four-point favorite. They also fell 68-64 to Baylor in a preseason tournament in the Virgin Islands as a 6½-point chalk. Despite those setbacks, Notre Dame is 26-11-1 ATS in its last 38 on the highway. Also, the Irish have cashed in four straight Big East contests dating to last year.

With Tuesday’s win over Seton Hall, Marquette improved to 9-0 at home, but just 2-2 ATS.

Both teams have stayed under the total in their last two games. However, the over is still 6-2 in Marquette’s last eight versus the Big East, 6-2 in Notre Dame’s last eight Saturday contests and 2-0 in the last two series battles.

ATS ADVANTAGE: OVER

UConn (11-3, 3-7 ATS) at (7) Georgetown (12-1, 5-5 ATS)

Georgetown shoots for its fifth straight win overall and its third consecutive win to open Big East play when it hosts surging UConn.

The Hoyas kicked off the conference season with a pair of double-digit road victories over Rutgers (58-46 as a 17-point favorite last Saturday) and DePaul (76-60 as a 7½-point chalk on Wednesday). Georgetown has alternated spread-covers in its first 10 lined games.

Of the Hoyas’ 12 victories, 11 have come by double digits, the lone exception being a nine-point win at Ball State in the third game of the season.

UConn bounced back from a 73-67 conference-opening loss at Notre Dame with Wednesday’s 81-65 rout of St. Johns as a 12 ½-point home favorite. The Huskies are 6-1 in their last seven games (2-1 on the road), but just 2-6 ATS in the last eight lined outings.

The Hoyas hammered UConn 59-46 as an 11½-point home chalk last year, snapping an 11-game losing skid to the Huskies. Georgetown has cashed in the last three meetings after UConn had gone 6-0 ATS in the previous six.

Georgetown enters this contest ranked No. 1 in the nation in both field-goal percentage offense (52.4) and field-goal percentage defense (34.6). Also, the Hoyas give up just 54.8 points per game, fifth-best in the country. Today, though, they face a UConn offense that puts up 82.1 points per game on 47 percent shooting.

The Huskies are stuck in ATS funks of 7-21 overall, 3-13 on the road, 0-7 on Saturday and 0-8 following a spread-cover.

Georgetown is 16-5-3 ATS in its last 24 Big East contests and 13-6-1 ATS in its last 20 at home. On the downside, the Hoyas are 0-6 ATS in their last six on Saturday.

The under is 7-3 in Georgetown’s 10 lined games this season, 40-13 in its last 53 at home and 9-1 in its last 10 on Saturday. However, the over is 6-2 in UConn’s last eight lined outings, including 5-1 at road/neutral sites.

ATS ADVANTAGE: GEORGETOWN and UNDER

(4) Washington State (14-0, 7-4 ATS) at (5) UCLA (15-1, 8-5-2 ATS)

The game of the day comes from Pauley Pavilion in Los Angeles, where the fifth-ranked Bruins look to hand Washington State its first loss of the season in a marquee Pac-10 clash.

After rolling through a perfect non-conference season, the Cougars have started league play with a pair of road victories. After nipping archrival Washington 56-52 as a 3 ½-point chalk last Saturday, they traveled down to L.A. on Thursday and pummeled USC 73-58 as a 1½-point underdog. The Cougars have cashed in three straight.

UCLA won its eighth in a row Thursday night, topping Washington 69-55 at home to move to 3-0 in Pac-10 play. However, the Bruins went cold in the final few minutes and failed to cover as a 15-point favorite, dropping to 4-2 ATS in their last six.

UCLA has dominated this rivalry, winning 91 of the 104 all-time meetings, going 50-1 at home. Most recently, the Bruins have won the last six in a row against the Cougars, including a 55-52 home win and a 53-45 road victory last year. However, the teams have alternated spread-covers in the last seven lined meetings, with the road team getting the cash in all seven.

Washington State is 9-0 on the road, cashing in six straight as a visitor. The Cougars have also covered in four of their last five visits to UCLA.

The Bruins are 9-1 at Pauley Pavilion, but just 4-4 ATS, including 1-4 ATS in the last five.

These are two of the best defensive teams in the nation. Washington State leads the nation in giving up just 50.4 points per game, while UCLA is sixth at 55.9 ppg, including 52.7 ppg at home.

For UCLA, the under is on runs of 4-1 overall, 11-4 at home and 27-11 on Saturday. Also, the last three series meetings have stayed low.

ATS ADVANTAGE: WASHINGTON STATE and UNDER

Ohio State (12-3, 6-5 ATS) at Purdue (10-5, 4-8 ATS)

Ohio State, which has quietly ripped off eight straight wins, will try to remain perfect in Big Ten play when it visits Purdue, which has had its struggles over the years against the Buckeyes.

Ohio State capped the non-conference season with five straight wins (3-0 ATS in lined games), then started Big Ten play with three double-digit routs of Illinois (74-58 as a four-point road underdog), Northwestern (62-51 as a 15-point home chalk) and Iowa (79-48 as a 13½-point home favorite). In Wednesday’s 31-point rout of Iowa, the Buckeyes shot 52.4 percent from the field and held the Hawkeyes to 34 percent. Their last seven wins have come by double digits.

The Boilermakers had a three-game winning streak snapped in Tuesday’s 78-75 loss to sixth-ranked Michigan State. However, Purdue did cash as a 13-point road underdog, ending an 0-5 ATS slide.

This rivalry has belonged to Ohio Sate recently, as the Buckeyes have won the last eight meetings (6-2 ATS). And if you go back to the start of the decade, Ohio State has cashed in 11 of the last 13 meetings, going 6-0 ATS in the last six visits to West Lafayette, Ind.

Additionally in this series, the favorite is 4-1 ATS in the last five and the visitor is 5-2 ATS in the last seven.

The Boilermakers are 9-3 ATS over their past 12 league games dating to last season. However, they’ve failed to cover in five straight home games, they’re 1-5 ATS in their last six on Saturday and 2-10 ATS in their last 12 against winning teams.

Ohio State has cashed in six of its last seven in the Big Ten.

The under is on runs of 49-23 for Purdue in conference, 4-1 for Purdue on Saturday, 7-3 for Ohio State overall, 23-8-1 for Ohio State on Saturday and 6-3 in this rivalry.

ATS ADVANTAGE: OHIO STATE and UNDER

Florida State (12-4, 6-7 ATS) at (18) Clemson (12-3, 8-4 ATS)

After a strong start to the season, Clemson finds itself in the midst of a two-game slide as it welcomes Florida State to Death Valley for an ACC affair.

The Tigers started out 12-1, then suffered a heartbreaking, last-second 90-88 overtime loss to North Carolina on Sunday as a 5½-point home underdog. Three days later, the hangover was still evident as Clemson suffered a stunning 82-72 loss to Charlotte as a 15½-point home chalk. That snapped a 3-0 ATS run.

Florida State edged Georgia Tech 66-64 as a four-point underdog in its ACC opener on Dec. 30. The Seminoles then came home last Saturday and held off LaSalle 81-76 but didn’t come close to covering as a 17½-point home favorite, dropping to 1-5 ATS in their last six.

These rivals faced off three times last year. Clemson won both regular-season meetings – 68-66 as a 1½-point road underdog and 71-58 as a 4½-point home chalk – but the Seminoles got revenge in the ACC Tournament, prevailing 67-66 as a one-point underdog. The Tigers are 5-2 SU and ATS in the last seven series battles (4-0 SU and ATS at home), and the straight-up winner has covered the spread in the last 10.

All four of Florida State’s losses have come on the road, where they are 3-4 SU and ATS, with the winner cashing in all seven contests. The ‘Noles are 4-1 ATS in their last five ACC affairs, but 0-4 ATS in their last four games on Saturday.

Despite the results of the last two games, Clemson is still on an overall 11-5 ATS roll. However, the Tigers – who had won their first seven home games before this week – are only 4-3 ATS on their own floor. They’re also in a 2-5-1 ATS funk in conference.

The under is 7-1 in the last eight series meetings, with the last five in a row staying low. Also, the under is 7-3 in Florida State’s last 11 overall and 18-6-1 in its last 25 ACC games. On the flip side, Clemson has topped the total in 12 of its last 15 overall, including eight of 11 this season.

ATS ADVANTAGE: CLEMSON

(3) Kansas (15-0, 8-4 ATS) at Nebraska (11-2, 3-2 ATS)

Kansas goes for its 16th straight win to start the season and its ninth consecutive victory over Nebraska when these Big 12 rivals tip off league play in Lincoln, Neb.

The Jayhawks, one of just five remaining undefeated teams, cruised through the non-conference portion of their schedule, posting 12 double-digit wins, including a 90-60 rout of Loyola of Maryland on Tuesday, coming up just short as a 33-point home chalk. Kansas, which is off to its best start since the 1996-97 squad won its first 22 games, ranks 11th in the nation in averaging 84 points per game and 19th nationally in surrendering just 58.6 ppg.

Nebraska, which is off to its best start since 1994-95, closed out non-league play with six straight wins, most recently blasting Maryland-Eastern Shore 86-50 in a non-lined home game on Jan. 4. The Cornhuskers haven’t faced a lined foe since upsetting then-No. 16 Oregon 88-79 in overtime as a 2½-point home underdog on Dec. 15.

The Jayhawks handed Nebraska its second-worst loss in the 110-year history of the program last February, rolling 92-39 as a 16-point home favorite. It was the first time in 23 years that Nebraska scored less than 40 points. Three weeks earlier, Kansas rolled over the Huskers 76-56 as a 5½-point road chalk. The Jayhawks are 17-1 in the last 18 meetings, covering the spread in each of the last six.

Nebraska is 11-0 at home, but just three of those games came against quality competition, with the Huskers going 3-0 ATS. Dating to last year, they’re on a 13-4 ATS roll in Lincoln.

Kansas is on ATS streaks of 7-3 overall, 7-2 on the road (2-1 ATS on the highway this season) and 6-0 on Saturday

The Jayhawks went 14-2 in Big 12 play last year and have won 16 consecutive league-openers. However, they closed out last year by going 1-4 ATS.

Nebraska, which finished tied for seventh in the Big 12 last year with a 6-10 mark, has played just one Top 25 foe this year (Oregon). The Cornhuskers are just 6-33 SU in their last 39 games against ranked Big 12 rivals. They also finished last year by failing to cash in five of their final seven conference contests.

The over is 4-1-1 in the last six clashes between these schools. The over is also 4-1 in Nebraska’s last 12 league games.

ATS ADVANTAGE: KANSAS and OVER

gametimepicks.com

 
Posted : January 11, 2008 9:19 pm
(@mvbski)
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Saturday's Slate
Brian Edwards

Just like last week, gamblers have to wait until 4:30 p.m. Eastern for the NFL games to start. Therefore, college basketball takes center stage Saturday – at least for 4 ½ hours beginning at noon.

Let’s take a look at a few of the televised contests…

**North Carolina State at North Carolina**

--Las Vegas Sports Consultants opened North Carolina (16-0 straight up, 11-2 against the spread) as a 21-point favorite with a total of 153. The Tar Heels will be looking to avenge a shocking loss to the Wolfpack at the ACC Tournament last year, when N.C. St. captured an 89-80 win as a 14 ½-point underdog.

--North Carolina State (11-3 SU, 3-8 ATS) has won seven in a row but is just 1-3 versus the number during that surge against mostly cupcake opponents. The Wolfpack has been an underdog three times this year, compiling a 2-1 record both SU and ATS. Sidney Lowe’s team won 79-73 at Seton Hall as a three-point ‘dog, beat Villanova 69-68 on a neutral court as a three-point ‘dog and got thumped 81-58 at Michigan St. as a nine-point ‘dog.

--UNC had covered the spread in 11 consecutive games until last Sunday. However, the Tar Heels failed to cash in a 90-88 win at Clemson as 5½-point favorites.

--Roy Williams’ team is 8-0 SU and 5-0 ATS at the Dean Dome this season. Dating back even further, the Tar Heels are 23-6 ATS in their last 29 home games.

--The ‘over’ is on a 6-1 run in N.C. St.’s last seven games with a total. Also, the ‘over’ is 6-1 in the last seven head-to-head meetings between these long-time ACC adversaries.

--N.C. St. sophomore Farnold Degand, a transfer from Iowa St., was lost for the season with a torn ACL in an 85-77 win over Cincinnati on Dec. 23. Degand was averaging 6.9 points, 3.2 rebounds and 2.9 assists per game.

--ESPN will provide television coverage at noon Eastern.

**Vanderbilt at Kentucky**

--As of Friday night, there was no line on this game yet due to the “questionable” status of two important players for Kentucky, Derrick Jasper and Jodie Meeks (10.8 PPG). Jasper is still slowed by microfracture surgery on his knee that kept him out of the lineup until Dec. 29, while Meeks has missed practice time this week with a hip injury.

--Kentucky (6-7 SU, 2-7 ATS) enters SEC play with a losing record for the first time since 1988-89. The Wildcats have lost six of their last eight games both SU and ATS. They are off an 89-75 loss to Louisville as 1½-point home underdogs.

--Vanderbilt (16-0 SU, 8-7 ATS) has won four in a row against UK, its nemesis for decades. However, the ‘Cats are 8-3 ATS in the last 11 head-to-head meetings.

--Vandy has the SEC’s top two scoring weapons in senior Shan Foster and Australian freshman A.J. Ogilvy. Foster leads the SEC in scoring with a 20.6 PPG averages, while Ogilvy is second at 19.6 PPG. Ogilvy had a game-high 25 points to lead the Commodores to an 80-73 win over South Carolina in Wednesday’s SEC opener. The Gamecocks covered the spread as 8 ½-point underdogs.

--UK senior guard Ramel Bradley is averaging 23 PPG in the last three games.

--The ‘over’ is 5-1 in UK’s last six games, 11-4 in Vandy’s last 15 outings.

--Tip-off is set for 1:30 p.m. Eastern with CBS providing regional coverage.

**Kansas at Nebraska**

--LVSC opened Kansas as a 10½-point ‘chalk’ with a total of 132.

--Kansas (15-0 SU, 9-4 ATS) has won eight consecutive games against Nebraska, posting a 7-1 spread record in the process. The Jayhawks have won the last six meetings by 14 points or more.

--KU is off a 90-60 win over Loyola-Maryland as a 32-point home favorite. The Jayhawks failed to cover in that spot, but they easily cashed tickets in last Saturday’s 85-60 win at Boston College as 10½-point ‘chalk.’

--Nebraska (11-2 SU, 2-3 ATS) has won six in a row, including an 88-79 overtime win over Oregon as a 2½-point underdog. The Cornhuskers also have a quality win over Arizona State, but they have mostly faced creampuffs during non-conference play.

--Nebraska is 13-4 in its last 17 home games.

--The ‘under’ is 2-0 for Nebraska at home, 2-1 for KU on the road.

--ESPN will have the telecast at 9:00 p.m. Eastern.

**B.E.’s Bonus Nuggets**

--Washington State will put its undefeated record on the line at 2:30 p.m .Eastern against UCLA. LVSC opened the Bruins as seven-point favorites. FSN will provide television coverage.

--If you saw Marquette’s Dominic James (14.8 PPG) take a hard fall after a cheap shot foul from a Seton Hall player the other night, there’s no need to fret about his status. James will play when the Golden Eagles host Notre Dame as six-point favorites.

--Saint Louis plays host to Dayton at 8:00 p.m. LVSC opened the Flyers as 6 ½-point favorites. The Billikens set an NCAA record for futility during the shot-clock era by scoring just 20 points in Thursday’s 49-20 loss at George Washington.

--The ‘over’ has been a money-making machine for Dayton, cashing at an 8-1 clip.

--Drake, which is off to the best start in school history, opened as a 4½-point home favorite for Saturday’s tilt against Missouri St. The Bulldogs will be without the Missouri Valley Conference’s leading scorer, Josh Young, who is out indefinitely with a sprained ankle. Young, who has been the catalyst behind Drake’s surprising 13-1 start, is averaging 16.3 PPG.

vegasinsider.com.

 
Posted : January 11, 2008 9:22 pm
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Posts: 43756
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Is Washington St. for real?
By Matt Fargo
VegasInsider.com

Washington St. passed another test on Thursday as it went into USC and easily took care of the Trojans, moving its record to 14-0 on the season. To the novice college basketball follower, the Cougars came out of nowhere to be where they are now since they are not a household name and have been overshadowed for years by their in-state rival Washington Huskies. I am here to tell you this team is for real as it has all the makings of a team that can make a serious run at the big boys.

I backed the Cougars against USC and am still trying to figure out why it was the underdog in that game. One simple reason is the fact that the Cougars are still not getting the respect it deserves. When they go into Pauley Pavilion on Saturday and defeat the UCLA Bruins, maybe some people will finally take notice. Sure, Washington St. is ranked 4th in both the AP and USA Today/ESPN polls but the fact that it is ranked 26th in the most recent RPI is a slap in the face.

The RPI ranking will eventually go up once conference play really gets going as right now, Washington St. is dogged because of a light schedule played thus far. Currently its schedule is 251st in the nation and there is no doubt that is not very solid. There have been some cupcakes in there but there have also been some quality wins against USC, Washington, Gonzaga, Baylor and Boise St. And better yet, all five of those wins were on the road.

For a team to be this good and not have a player averaging more than 12.7 ppg is even more amazing. That honor goes to Derrick Low, who also leads the team in three-point shooting, free throw shooting and is second in steals. Center Aaron Baynes and guard Kyle Weaver are the only other players scoring in double figures. It isn’t because no one else is capable of scoring but more of quality over quantity. The Cougars average 68.9 ppg but shoot a solid 49.8 percent from the floor.

Washington St. came on the scene last year with its tenacious defense as it came within a bucket of advancing to the Sweet 16. That defense is present once again as the Cougars are allowing just 50.4 ppg on 38.1 percent shooting. They have held seven teams below 50 points and on Thursday, they won by 15 points despite allowing USC to shoot 54.2 percent. How does that happen? Taking care of the ball remains the philosophy of this team as it committed just seven turnovers and did not allow a steal.

As mentioned, the Cougars now must face their stiffest challenge of the season when it takes on UCLA on Saturday. The teams match up very well with each other as both take quality shots on offense while the defense on both sides is hard nosed and very tough to penetrate. The most intriguing matchup in this game is at the center position with Baynes going up against heralded freshman Kevin Love. Love is averaging 16.1 ppg and 10 rpg which are 4.0 ppg and 3.4 rpg better than Baynes.

Earlier I said that Washington St. will get the respect it deserves after a Saturday win. I do believe it is more than possible so keep an eye out for the best line as I’m projecting UCLA to be around a five-point favorite. Anything should be a take as this has the makings of a “last possession wins” type of game. This is just a guess but if the Cougars win, they should be able to pass Syracuse and Massachusetts in the RPI. Continuing this style of play, they can surprise in the Pac 10 and go a long way come tournament time.

 
Posted : January 11, 2008 9:23 pm
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Posts: 43756
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Nuggets F Nene leaves team to take care of personal medical issue
January 11, 2008

DENVER (AP) -Nuggets forward Nene took an indefinite leave of absence from the team Friday to take care of a personal medical issue.

The Nuggets wouldn't comment further on what was wrong with Nene, who missed 22 games earlier this season after surgery on his left thumb.

``I'm very upset that I have to put a little delay on being with the team to take care of my health,'' Nene said in a statement. ``It's hard to go through when things seem to be going so well. ... I want to get back on the court as soon as possible to help my teammates.''

The news of his absence arrived 30 minutes before the Nuggets hosted the Orlando Magic.

``Our thoughts and prayers are with Nene and his family,'' Nuggets coach George Karl said in a statement.

Nene is averaging 6.4 points and 6.4 rebounds in 12 games this season.

 
Posted : January 11, 2008 9:26 pm
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Cavs recall Simmons from D-League

Cleveland, OH (Sports Network) - The Cleveland Cavaliers recalled forward Cedric Simmons from Rio Grande of the NBA Development League Friday.

Simmons was assigned to Rio Grande on January 2 and played in three games for the Vipers, averaging 9.3 points, 5.3 rebounds and 4.3 blocks

Simmons has played in just four games for the Cavaliers this season and has grabbed 11 rebounds in 43 minutes. He was acquired by Cleveland on September 29 of last year from the New Orleans Hornets in exchange for guard David Wesley.

To clear a spot for Simmons, the Cavs assigned guard Shannon Brown to Rio Grande Valley on Friday. Brown played in 12 games (four starts) for the Cavaliers this season and has averaged 7.9 points, 1.3 rebounds and 1.4 assists in 16.4 minutes per game.

 
Posted : January 11, 2008 9:37 pm
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Posts: 43756
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Boston Celtics vs. Washington Wizards

- The Boston Celtics and the Washington Wizards will both be trying to pick up a win on Saturday when they battle at Verizon Center.

The Celtics held the Nets to nine points in the fourth quarter en route to an 86-77 win last time out, as 7.5-point underdogs. The combined score fell UNDER the posted total of 187.5.

Kevin Garnett led the Celtics with 20 points and 11 rebounds for a double-double. Paul Pierce chipped in with 18 points in the win.

Five players reached double-digits last time out, as the Wizards defeated the Hawks 102-98 on the road. The Wizards won the game as a 2.5-point road underdog, while the combined score made it OVER the posted total of 192.

Antawn Jamison shot 9-for-22 with 22 points and 17 rebounds for a double-double for the Wizards.

Team records:
Boston: 30-4 SU, 22-11-1 ATS
Washington: 18-16 SU, 21-12-1 ATS

Boston most recently:
When playing on Saturday are 5-5
Before playing Washington are 3-7
After playing New Jersey are 5-5
After a win are 8-2

Washington most recently:
When playing on Saturday are 4-6
Before playing Boston are 4-6
After playing Atlanta are 6-4
After a win are 5-5

A few trends to consider:
Boston is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Boston is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Washington
Boston is 10-1 SU in its last 11 games
Boston is 7-1 ATS in its last 8 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Washington's last 9 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Washington's last 8 games when playing at home against Boston
Washington is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Boston
Washington is 6-2 ATS in its last 8 games

Next up:
Boston home to Washington, Monday, January 14
Washington at Boston, Monday, January 14

 
Posted : January 12, 2008 8:16 am
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Posts: 43756
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Detroit Pistons vs. Charlotte Bobcats

- The Detroit Pistons and the Charlotte Bobcats will both be gunning for a victory on Saturday when they meet at Charlotte Bobcats Arena.

Detroit was outplayed in the fourth quarter, but held on to defeat San Antonio 90-85 last time out. Detroit won the game as a 3.5-point road underdog, while the 175 points fell UNDER the posted total of 180.5.

Rasheed Wallace led Detroit with a double-double, tossing in 23 points and hauling down 15 boards.

The Bobcats lost 113-106 to the Cavaliers in double OT last time out, as 8-point underdogs. The combined score sailed OVER the posted total of 189.

LeBron James had a game-high 31 points with 19 rebounds for a double-double for the Cavaliers.

Team records:
Detroit: 27-9 SU, 24-11-1 ATS
Charlotte: 13-22 SU, 13-21-1 ATS

Detroit most recently:
When playing on Saturday are 5-5
Before playing New York are 8-2
After playing San Antonio are 7-3
After a win are 9-1

Charlotte most recently:
When playing on Saturday are 3-7
Before playing Denver are 0-6
After playing Cleveland are 5-5
After a loss are 4-6

A few trends to consider:
Detroit is 12-2 SU in its last 14 games
Detroit is 12-2 ATS in its last 14 games
Detroit is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games on the road
Detroit is 6-1 ATS in its last 7 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Charlotte's last 7 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Charlotte's last 7 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Charlotte's last 6 games when playing Detroit
Charlotte is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games when playing at home against Detroit

Next up:
Detroit at New York, Sunday, January 13
Charlotte home to Denver, Monday, January 14

 
Posted : January 12, 2008 8:16 am
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Posts: 43756
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Topic starter
 

Minnesota Timberwolves vs. San Antonio Spurs

- The fans at AT&T Center will be treated to a game between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the San Antonio Spurs when they take their seats on Saturday.

The Timberwolves lost 113-82 to the Rockets last time out, as 10.5-point underdogs. The combined score made it OVER the posted total of 186.5.

Ryan Gomes shot 8-for-13 from the field with 20 points and six rebounds.

The Spurs were upset 90-85 by the Pistons last time out, as 3.5-point underdogs. The 175 points fell UNDER the posted total of 180.5.

Tim Duncan netted 24 points with 15 rebounds for a double-double in the loss.

Current streak:
San Antonio has lost 2 straight games.

Team records:
Minnesota: 5-30 SU, 14-21 ATS
San Antonio: 23-11 SU, 17-17 ATS

Minnesota most recently:
When playing on Saturday are 5-5
Before playing Golden State are 2-8
After playing Houston are 4-6
After a loss are 2-8

San Antonio most recently:
When playing on Saturday are 6-4
Before playing Philadelphia are 7-3
After playing Detroit are 7-3
After a loss are 7-3

A few trends to consider:
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Minnesota's last 6 games when playing San Antonio
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Minnesota's last 5 games when playing on the road against San Antonio
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Minnesota's last 8 games on the road
Minnesota is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
San Antonio is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Minnesota
San Antonio is 22-3 SU in its last 25 games at home
San Antonio is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games when playing Minnesota
San Antonio is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Minnesota

Next up:
Minnesota home to Golden State, Tuesday, January 15
San Antonio home to Philadelphia, Monday, January 14

 
Posted : January 12, 2008 8:17 am
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Posts: 43756
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Orlando Magic vs. Utah Jazz

- The Orlando Magic and the Utah Jazz will both be trying to pick up a win on Saturday when they battle at EnergySolutions Arena.

Orlando was defeated 113-103 by Denver on Friday, as 6-point underdogs on the road. The 216 points were UNDER the posted total of 218.5.

Dwight Howard led Orlando with 20 points and 13 rebounds for a double-double in the loss.

The Jazz dominated the entire night Thursday, as they defeated the Suns 108-86. The Jazz easily covered the 6.5-point spread, while the combined score fell UNDER the posted total of 219.

Mehmet Okur shot 9-for-19 from the field with 22 points and 17 rebounds for a double-double.

Current streak:
Utah has won 2 straight games.

Team records:
Orlando: 23-15 SU, 24-14 ATS
Utah: 20-17 SU, 17-20 ATS

Orlando most recently:
When playing on Saturday are 4-6
Before playing Chicago are 5-5
After playing Denver are 4-6
After a loss are 4-6

Utah most recently:
When playing on Saturday are 5-5
Before playing Milwaukee are 5-5
After playing Phoenix are 5-5
After a win are 4-6

A few trends to consider:
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Orlando's last 6 games on the road
Orlando is 4-0-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Utah
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Orlando's last 5 games when playing on the road against Utah
Orlando is 7-1-1 ATS in its last 9 games when playing Utah
Utah is 14-2 SU in its last 16 games at home
Utah is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Utah's last 5 games when playing at home against Orlando
Utah is 8-3 SU in its last 11 games when playing at home against Orlando

Next up:
Orlando home to Chicago, Tuesday, January 15
Utah home to Milwaukee, Monday, January 14

 
Posted : January 12, 2008 8:17 am
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Posts: 43756
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Topic starter
 

Milwaukee Bucks vs. Phoenix Suns

- The Milwaukee Bucks and the Phoenix Suns will both be trying to pick up a win on Saturday when they battle at US Airways Center.

The Bucks were defeated 110-105 by the Lakers last time out, as 14.5-point road underdogs. The 215 points made it OVER the posted total of 209.

Mo Williams shot 10-for-21 with a team-high 28 points in a losing effort.

The Suns were defeated 108-86 by the Jazz last time out, as 6.5-point underdogs. The combined score fell UNDER the posted total of 219.

Amare Stoudemire netted 21 points and grabbed 14 boards to complete a double-double in the loss.

Team records:
Milwaukee: 15-21 SU, 16-19-1 ATS
Phoenix: 25-11 SU, 15-20-1 ATS

Milwaukee most recently:
When playing on Saturday are 6-4
Before playing Utah are 3-7
After playing LA Lakers are 5-5
After a loss are 5-5

Phoenix most recently:
When playing on Saturday are 6-4
Before playing LA Clippers are 3-7
After playing Utah are 3-7
After a loss are 8-2

A few trends to consider:
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Milwaukee's last 7 games when playing Phoenix
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Milwaukee's last 5 games when playing on the road against Phoenix
Milwaukee is 4-1-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Phoenix
Milwaukee is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games
Phoenix is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Milwaukee
Phoenix is 13-2 SU in its last 15 games when playing Milwaukee
Phoenix is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Phoenix's last 7 games when playing Milwaukee

Next up:
Milwaukee at Utah, Monday, January 14
Phoenix at LA Clippers, Tuesday, January 15

 
Posted : January 12, 2008 8:18 am
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Posts: 43756
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Topic starter
 

Indiana Pacers vs. Sacramento Kings

- The Indiana Pacers and the Sacramento Kings will both be trying to pick up a win on Saturday when they battle at ARCO Arena.

The Pacers lost 129-122 to the Suns last time out, as 11-point road underdogs. The combined score sailed OVER the posted total of 225.

Danny Granger and Shawne Williams each had 22 points in the loss for the Pacers.

The Kings scored 35 points in the fourth quarter and came away with a 116-113 win over the Grizzlies last time out. The Kings failed to cover the 4-point spread at home, but the combined score sailed OVER the posted total of 203.

John Salmons led the Kings with 28 points and 11 rebounds for a double-double. Beno Udrih chipped in with 25 points in the win.

Current streak:
Indiana has lost 3 straight games.
Sacramento has won 2 straight games.

Team records:
Indiana: 16-21 SU, 17-19-1 ATS
Sacramento: 14-20 SU, 19-15 ATS

Indiana most recently:
When playing on Saturday are 4-6
Before playing Golden State are 8-2
After playing Phoenix are 4-6
After a loss are 4-6

Sacramento most recently:
When playing on Saturday are 4-6
Before playing Dallas are 5-5
After playing Memphis are 8-2
After a win are 3-7

A few trends to consider:
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Indiana's last 7 games when playing on the road against Sacramento
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Indiana's last 5 games when playing Sacramento
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Indiana's last 11 games on the road
Indiana is 2-8 SU in its last 10 games when playing Sacramento
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Sacramento's last 7 games when playing at home against Indiana
Sacramento is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games
Sacramento is 8-2 SU in its last 10 games when playing Indiana
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Sacramento's last 5 games when playing Indiana

Next up:
Indiana at Golden State, Sunday, January 13
Sacramento home to Dallas, Monday, January 14

 
Posted : January 12, 2008 8:18 am
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Posts: 43756
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Topic starter
 

Dallas Mavericks vs. Los Angeles Clippers

- The fans at STAPLES Center will be treated to a game between the Dallas Mavericks and the Los Angeles Clippers when they take their seats on Saturday.

The Mavericks ran over the SuperSonics 88-70 last time out, as 9.5-point favorites. The combined score fell UNDER the posted total of 195.5.

Dirk Nowitzki led the way with 20 points and six rebounds, while Josh Howard added 18 in the win.

The Clippers were dumped 113-106 by the Magic last time out, as 4.5-point underdogs at home. The 219 points sailed OVER the night's posted total of 192.

Corey Maggette netted a team-high 27 points from 7-for-14 shooting, while grabbing six boards in the loss.

Current streak:
Dallas has won 6 straight games.
Los Angeles has lost 3 straight games.

Team records:
Dallas: 25-11 SU, 17-18-1 ATS
Los Angeles: 10-22 SU, 14-18 ATS

Dallas most recently:
When playing on Saturday are 4-6
Before playing Sacramento are 6-4
After playing Seattle are 9-1
After a win are 9-1

Los Angeles most recently:
When playing on Saturday are 5-5
Before playing Phoenix are 4-6
After playing Orlando are 6-4
After a loss are 3-7

A few trends to consider:
Dallas is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Dallas's last 5 games when playing on the road against LA Clippers
The total has gone UNDER in 12 of Dallas's last 13 games when playing LA Clippers
Dallas is 6-2 SU in their last 8 games when playing LA Clippers
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of the LA Clippers last 5 games when playing at home against Dallas
The total has gone UNDER in 12 of the LA Clippers last 13 games when playing Dallas
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of the LA Clippers last 6 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of the LA Clippers last 6 games

Next up:
Dallas at Sacramento, Monday, January 14
LA Clippers home to Phoenix, Tuesday, January 15

 
Posted : January 12, 2008 8:19 am
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Posts: 43756
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Topic starter
 

Saturday’s college basketball cheat sheet
COVERS.com

Memphis at Marshall

Memphis went a perfect 13-0 in non-conference play to pick up the No. 2 ranking in the nation. The Tigers have an average margin of victory of 19.8 points thanks to their high powered offense. They are 29-1 in conference place since the start of the 2005-06 season.

Marshall lost 92-71 to Memphis last season and it has done nothing to suggest that this year will be any different. The Thundering Herd have dropped four of their last nine games – all against less talented opponents than the Tigers.

Notre Dame at Marquette

The Golden Eagles recorded their eighth victory in nine games on Tuesday, but it came at a heavy price. Star guard Dominic James (14.8 ppg) sprained his wrist in the 61-56 win over Seton Hall, and will likely miss the visit of Notre Dame.

The Irish come into Saturday’s meeting with a 12-2 straight up record thanks to their solid defensive work. They rank third in scoring defense (61.5 ppg) and third in field-goal percentage defense (35.5 percent).

Connecticut at Georgetown

Georgetown has won all but one of its 13 games this season, but it needs to do better on the rebound if that streak is to continue. The Hoyas have been outrebounded in three of their last four games and had a season-low four offensive rebounds in their 58-46 win over Rutgers last week.

The Huskies have won seven of their last eight games, demolishing opponents along the way. They beat St. John’s 81-65 in their Big East home opener on Tuesday, with Jerome Dyson claiming a team record nine steals and A.J. Price scoring a career-high 25 points.

Kansas at Nebraska

Just six teams in the country have a perfect record in the second week of the New Year and Kansas is one of them. The Jayhawks also have an impressive 9-4-0 ATS record and have covered in three of their last four games.

The Cornhuskers have won six straight games on their way to posting their best non-conference record in 12 years (12-2). They have shot 47 percent or better from the field in five straight games, while holding five of their last six opponents to 35 percent or less.

Vanderbilt at Kentucky

Vanderbilt went a remarkable 15-0 in non-conference play and will be hoping to carry that form into SEC action. The Commodores covered the spread in eight of those 15 games and were led by guard Shan Foster, who is averaging 21.1 points per game.

At the halfway point, the Wildcats haven’t lived up to expectations. They have a 6-7 non-conference record and have dropped four home games including shock upsets by Gardner-Webb and San Diego. They are also 2-7-1 ATS.

Louisiana State at Mississippi

Injuries left LSU coach John Brady with just eight healthy players for the Tigers’ SEC opener against Mississippi on Wednesday. A similar situation is likely for Saturday’s trip to Mississippi, with forwards Tasmin Mitchell (ankle) and Quinton Thornton (torn pectoral muscle) and center Chris Johnson (hand) out of action, to name just a few.

This season has gone more smoothly for Mississippi, another of the nation’s unbeaten teams. Ole Miss went 15-0 in non-conference play, and will be confident against an LSU team they beat 80-60 last season.

Washington St. at UCLA

Washington State is unbeaten in 13 games and gets to test itself against reining Pac-10 champion UCLA this week. The Cougars are scoring 68.5 points per game, while giving up just 49.8. They have an 8-4 ATS record.

UCLA went 14-1 in non-conference play, posting a 7-4-2 against the spread mark. Freshman Kevin Love has lived up to the preseason hype so far and leads the team in points (16.5) and rebounds (10.2).

Florida St. at Clemson

The Seminoles kicked off their ACC schedule with a battling 66-64 win over Georgia Tech. Florida State’s greatest strength this season is its precision with free throws. They are shooting an NCAA-best 80 percent from the foul line, including a 30-for-32 performance against La Salle.

Clemson proved it is no pushover by bringing North Carolina to overtime last week. Although they ultimately lost 90-88, the Tigers led at the half and were undone by a last-minute three-pointer. They are 12-2 overall this season and have covered the spread in four of their last five.

Seton Hall at Pittsburgh

The Panthers have leaped out to a 12-2 record, but injuries to two key players could slow them down. Guards Mike Cook (knee) and Levance Fields (foot) are out indefinitely. The duo accounts for 28 percent of their scoring and 47 percent of their assists, according to the school paper.

Seton Hall has really struggled to find any consistency since a 6-0 start to the season. The Pirates have alternated between wins and losses in their last nine games and have dropped to 4-6-1 ATS for the season.

 
Posted : January 12, 2008 8:29 am
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Posts: 43756
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Topic starter
 

Saturday’s Pregame Buzz

Detroit Pistons at Charlotte Bobcats

* Pistons are 10-1-1 ATS in their last 12 road games.
* Pistons are 20-6-1 ATS in their last 27 games overall.
* Bobcats are 2-6 ATS in their last 8 games vs. Central Division.
* Bobcats are 6-15 ATS in their last 21 games overall.
* The home team is 6-2 ATS in the last 8 meetings.
* The OVER is 7-3 in Charlotte's last 10 games vs. Eastern Conference.
* The UNDER is 12-3 in Detroit's last 15 games overall.

Boston Celtics at Washington Wizards

* Celtics are 23-9 ATS in their last 32 Saturday games.
* Wizards are 18-37 ATS in thier last 55 Saturday games.
* The road team is 17-5 ATS in the last 22 meetings.
* The UNDER is 8-1 in Washington's last 9 home games.
* The UNDER is 7-3 in Washington's last 10 games vs. Eastern Conference.
* The UNDER is 6-2 in Boston's last 8 games vs. Eastern Conference.

Orlando Magic at Utah Jazz

* Magic are 21-5-2 ATS in their last 28 road games.
* Magic are 7-2 ATS in their last 9 Saturday games.
* Magic are 7-1-1 ATS in the last 9 meetings.
* Jazz are 19-7-1 ATS in their last 27 home games.
* Jazz are 1-7 ATS in their last 8 vs. Southeast Division.
* The underdog is 8-3-1 ATS in the last 12 meetings.
* The OVER is 8-3 in Utah's last 11 games vs. Eastern Conference.

Indiana Pacers at Sacramento Kings

* Kings are 1-7 ATS in their last 8 home games.
* Kings are 8-2-1 ATS in their last 11 Saturday games.
* Pacers are 2-7 ATS in their last 9 games overall.
* The OVER is 8-3 in Indiana's last 11 road games.
* The OVER is 7-2 in Indiana's last 9 Saturday games.
* The UNDER is 7-2-1 in Sacramento's last 10 Saturday games.


CBB

North Carolina State at #1 North Carolina

* North Carolina State is 8-2 ATS in its last 10 road games.
* North Carolina is 3-7 ATS in its last 10 games against the Atlantic Coast.
* The OVER is 6-1 in the last 7 meetings.

#12 Vanderbilt at Kentucky

* Vanderbilt is 8-0 ATS in its last 8 road games following 3+ home games.
* Kentucky is 0-7 ATS in its last 7 games against a team winning above 60 percent.
* The underdog is 4-0 ATS in the last 4 meetings.

Connecticut at #8 Georgetown

* The Georgetown Hoyas broke an 11-game losing streak to the UConn Huskies last season with a 59-46 win. Georgetown’s center Roy Hibbert had 18 points and 12 rebounds against the Huskies last season, and is fresh off a 17 point 12 rebound performance against DePaul. EDGE: GEORGETOWN
* The Hoyas are again relying on their defense this season. They've yielded just 55 points on average and have allowed opponents to shoot just 35 percent - the lowest percentage in the country. BIG EDGE: GEORGETOWN
* UConn is looking to build off an 81-65 win over St. John's on Tuesday in its conference home opener. Junior A.J. Price scored a career-high 25 points and said “This is what we needed.” EDGE: UCONN
* The Huskies had played three straight on the road prior to Tuesday - their only three true road contests of the season and averaged 83 points while going 2-1 SU. EDGE: UCONN
* UConn is 0-8 ATS in its last 8 games following an ATS loss.
* Georgetown is 0-6 ATS in its last 6 Saturday games.
* The UNDER is 41-18 in Georgetown’s last 59 games overall.

#24 Arizona at Houston

* Arizona is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games following a SU loss.
* Houston is 9-4-2 ATS in its last 15 games overall.
* The UNDER is 11-3-2 ATS in Houston’s last 16 games following a SU loss.

#3 Kansas at Nebraska

* The Kansas Jayhawks again open conference play as the team to beat in the Big 12. Kansas had little trouble in winning its first 15 games for the fifth time in school history. The Jayhawks had only three games decided by single digits, and have won their last four by an average of 28 points. EDGE: KANSAS
* The Jayhawks, who went 14-2 in the Big 12 last season, have won 16 straight conference openers since losing to Oklahoma in 1991, when they were in the Big Eight. EDGE: KANSAS
* Kansas has won eight straight and 17 of the last 18 games against the Nebraska Cornhuskers, and had no trouble against them last season winning by an average of 37 points. BIG EDGE: KANSAS
* The Huskers enter conference play with their best mark since 1994-95 at 11-2. "I'm happy we're 11-2,” said coach Doc Sadler. They have been winning with their solid defense, as they rank second nationally in scoring defense with 54 points per game and field goal defense allowing 35 percent. EDGE: NEBRASKA
* Kansas is 6-0 ATS in its last 6 games against a winning team.
* Nebraska is 13-4 ATS in its last 17 home games.
* Nebraska has lost 33 of its last 39 games against ranked conference opponents.
* The favorite is 6-0 ATS in the last 6 meetings.

PREGAME.COM

 
Posted : January 12, 2008 8:54 am
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Topic starter
 

Kings G Kevin Martin (groin) has been cleared to play in Saturday's game against Indiana and he is expected to come off the bench.

Pacers F Jermaine O'Neal (knee) has been skipping practices this week, and is listed as questionable for Saturday's game.

Suns F Shawn Marion (shoulder) plans on playing Saturday night.

Jazz F Andrei Kirilenko sat out Thursday's game with inflammation in his lower back, and is listed as questionable for Saturday.

Auburn F Korvotney Barber (14 ppg; hand) is listed as out of Saturday's game.

Kentucky G Joe Crawford (16 ppg; foot) is probable and G Jodie Meeks (11 ppg; hip) is questionable for Saturday's game.

Arizona's leading scorer G Jerryd Bayless (19 ppg; knee) is listed as questionable for Saturday's game.

UCLA F Luc Richard Mbah a Moute (12 ppg; knee) and G Darren Collison (12 ppg; hip) are questionable for Saturday.

Drake's leading scorer Josh Young (16 ppg; ankle) is listed as OUT of Saturday's game.

Kansas G Mario Chalmers (12 ppg; groin) is probable for Saturday's game.
George Mason G Dre Smith (10 ppg; ankle) is listed as questionable for Saturday's game.

San Diego's leading scorer G Brandon Johnson (17 ppg; quad) is not in tonight's probable starting lineup.

Bobcats G Raymond Felton (14 ppg; ankle) has been added to the injury report as doubtful for tonight.

 
Posted : January 12, 2008 12:10 pm
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