The Mount St. Mary’s Mountaineers visit the Gallagher Center to face the Niagara Purple Eagles in a key MAAC conference battle. Both teams enter with momentum, setting up an intriguing Friday night contest.

Team Analysis

Mount St. Mary’s (Away) The Mountaineers come in having split their recent games, defeating Saint Peter’s before falling to Iona. They’re averaging 70.7 points while allowing 71.9 points per game, shooting 43.6% from the field and holding opponents to 42.2%. Dola Adebayo leads the offense with 13 points and 6.1 rebounds per game, supported by Dallas Hobbs (12.2 PPG) and Terrell Ard Jr. in double figures. The team has been solid from the free throw line at 73.1% but struggles from three-point range at 32.7%.

Niagara (Home) The Purple Eagles are riding high after consecutive victories over Quinnipiac and Canisius. They’re posting 68 points per game on 44.9% shooting while allowing 69.9 points on 45.1%. Jaeden Marshall tops the scoring at 10.2 PPG, with Justice Smith close behind at 9.8 PPG. While their rebounding (28 per game) has been a weakness, they’ve shot well from deep at 34.6% and from the line at 74.1%.

Betting Trends

Niagara Strengths:

• Won 5 of last 6 night games at Gallagher Center
• Building momentum with recent upsets
• Shooting efficiency advantage over Mount St. Mary’s

Mount St. Mary’s Strengths:

• Won previous matchup this season
• Road team has won last 4 games in series
• Better rebounding team (34.1 vs 28.0 per game)

Notable Trends:

• Last 7 Niagara night games have stayed under 136 points
• Mount St. Mary’s conference games tend to be higher scoring (5 of last 6 over 137)
• Niagara historically struggles after home wins (1-7 in last 8)

Prediction Despite Mount St. Mary’s victory in their previous meeting and superior rebounding numbers, Niagara’s recent form and home court advantage are compelling. The Purple Eagles’ confidence should be soaring after their upset victories, and their superior shooting efficiency could be the difference. The small home favorite line appears justified.

Pick: Niagara (small favorite)

Injury Report: Both teams enter at full strength with no reported injuries.