Massachusetts Minutemen vs. La Salle Explorers Prediction and Betting Tips

The Massachusetts Minutemen and La Salle Explorers are set to clash in an exciting Atlantic 10 Conference matchup on February 9, 2025. Both teams are looking to bounce back from recent losses and improve their standings in the conference. This game promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams having something to prove. In this article, we’ll dive into the key details, analyze the teams’ recent performances, and provide expert predictions and betting tips for this highly anticipated game.

Game Overview

• Date: February 9, 2025
• Time: 2:00 PM ET
• Location: John Glaser Arena, Philadelphia, PA
• TV Channel: ESPN+
• Betting Odds: La Salle -0 (Pick ’em), Total: 151.5

Team Analysis

Massachusetts Minutemen

The Minutemen come into this game with a 10-13 overall record and a 5-5 standing in the A-10 Conference. They are averaging 75.7 points per game, ranking 142nd in Division 1, but have struggled defensively, allowing 75.1 points per game.

Key Players:

• Jaylen Curry: The sophomore guard has been a standout performer, averaging 12.1 points and 1.4 steals per game. In their last game against Saint Louis, he scored 16 points despite shooting 6-15 from the field.
• Daniel Rivera: Rivera is a force in the paint, averaging 12.9 points and 7.8 rebounds per game. He recorded a double-double in their last outing with 14 points and 14 rebounds.
• Rahsool Diggins: Leading the team with 16.1 points per game, Diggins is a key offensive weapon, though he has been inconsistent with his shooting.

Recent Performance:

UMass is coming off a narrow 73-71 loss to Saint Louis, where they struggled with their shooting, making only 37% of their field goals and 25% of their three-pointers 17. Despite their offensive struggles, they have shown resilience, winning two of their last three games before this loss.

La Salle Explorers

The Explorers hold a 12-11 overall record and are 4-6 in the A-10 Conference. They average 74.6 points per game but have also struggled defensively, allowing 75.5 points per game.

Key Players:

• Corey McKeithan: The leading scorer for La Salle, McKeithan averages 16.3 points per game. However, he had a season-low two points in their last game against VCU.
• Deuce Jones: The freshman guard has been a bright spot, averaging 11.5 points and 2.5 assists per game. He scored 17 points in their previous matchup against UMass.
• Daeshon Shepherd: Shepherd adds depth to the lineup, averaging 11.2 points per game. He tied his career-high with four three-pointers in a recent game against Davidson.

Recent Performance

La Salle is coming off a disappointing 96-66 loss to VCU, where they were outscored by 20 points in the first half. They shot just 38.6% from the field and allowed VCU to shoot 52.1% 37. Despite this, they have been strong at home, winning nine of their 11 games at John Glaser Arena.

Head-to-Head History

The Minutemen and Explorers have a long-standing rivalry, with UMass holding a 31-22 all-time record against La Salle 46. In their most recent matchup on January 19, 2025, UMass dominated La Salle with an 82-60 victory. Jaylen Curry led the way with 22 points and seven assists, while Rahsool Diggins added 17 points.

Betting Insights and Odds

Spread and Moneyline

• Spread: La Salle -0 (Pick ’em)
• Moneyline: La Salle -110, UMass -110

Over/Under

• Total Points: 151.5
• Trends: The total has gone over in nine of the last 11 meetings between these teams.

Key Betting Trends

• La Salle is 9-2 at home this season, while UMass is 3-4 on the road.
• UMass has covered the spread in seven of their last 10 games, while La Salle has covered in five of their last 10.
• Both teams have struggled defensively, which could lead to a high-scoring game.

Expert Predictions

Winner Prediction

La Salle has the home-court advantage and a strong track record at John Glaser Arena. Despite their recent loss to VCU, they are expected to bounce back and secure a narrow victory. Prediction: La Salle 76, UMass 75.

Against the Spread (ATS)

Given UMass’s recent struggles on the road and La Salle’s strong home performance, the Explorers are likely to cover the spread. Pick: La Salle -0.

Over/Under

Both teams have struggled defensively, but their recent shooting woes suggest a lower-scoring game. Pick: Under 151.5.

Conclusion

The Massachusetts Minutemen and La Salle Explorers are evenly matched, making this a must-watch game for college basketball fans. With both teams looking to improve their conference standings, expect a competitive and hard-fought battle. For bettors, La Salle’s home-court advantage and UMass’s road struggles make the Explorers the safer pick. However, the game could go either way, so tread carefully with your bets.