Ohio Bobcats (9-10) vs. Kent State Golden Flashes (10-9)
The upcoming NCAA men’s basketball game presents an intriguing matchup between the Ohio Bobcats and the Kent State Golden Flashes, both teams looking to improve their standing mid-season. The Bobcats, standing at 9-10, are set to face off against the Golden Flashes, who have a slightly better record of 10-9, on Friday, January 26, 2024. This game is not just a battle for a win but also a significant event for NCAAB picks and prediction enthusiasts, offering a deep dive into the dynamics of Mid-American Conference basketball.
Ohio Bobcats have experienced an unpredictable season, showing both flashes of brilliance and periods of inconsistency. On offense, their team averages an impressive 79 points per game while posting an incredible 46% field goal percentage; their defensive play however could use improvement, particularly away where they have struggled against the spread going 0-5 against it.
Kent State Golden Flashes have shown resilience and an ability to score high-scoring games, averaging an average of 77.8 points per game on average and with an impressive 45.2% field goal percentage; their field goal percentage closely mirrors Ohio’s efficiency; however, Kent State has struggled to stay consistent as evidenced by their 1-4 run in their last five contests.
Ohio Bobcats vs. Kent State Golden Flashes Game Info
| When: | Friday, January 26, 2024 at 6:30 PM ET |
| Where: | Memorial A & C Center |
| TV: | CBSSN |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Jaylin Hunter (Guard) vs. Jalen Sullinger (Guard)
Jaylin Hunter has played a key role for the Bobcats this season, starting all 18 games and averaging 31.1 minutes per contest. The junior guard is scoring 13.6 points per game while shooting 40.2% from the field and 25.3% from three-point range. He contributes in other areas as well with 4.2 rebounds, 4.8 assists and 1.3 steals per game. Hunter takes care of the basketball, committing just 2.3 turnovers per contest. His scoring and distribution abilities make him instrumental to Ohio’s success on Friday night.
Jalen Sullinger has been the lead scorer for the Golden Flashes, putting up 14.3 points in 33.7 minutes per game across his 18 starts. The senior guard is efficient from the floor with a 43.9% field goal percentage, including a strong 39.8% from beyond the arc. Sullinger also shoots 87% from the charity stripe. In addition to his scoring, he chips in 2.3 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 1.1 steals per game while turning it over 2.3 times per contest. Sullinger’s sharpshooting gives Kent State a perimeter weapon that could prove dangerous against Ohio’s defense.
These talented guards will match up throughout the game on both ends. Hunter will look to distribute while taking advantage of his playmaking ability. Sullinger will provide spacing and a scoring punch. Which player is able to have a bigger impact could go a long way in determining the outcome on Friday night.
NCAAB Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds for this matchup are yet to be determined, reflecting the closely contested nature of this game. However, based on the teams’ recent performances and betting trends, this game is expected to be tightly contested, with the point spread likely reflecting the competitive balance between the two teams.
Ohio Bobcats Betting Trends
The Ohio Bobcats have shown a mixed bag in terms of betting trends. While they have managed a decent 3-2 record in their last 5 games against the spread, their performance in road games raises concerns, with a 0-5 record against the spread in such fixtures. The totals have gone OVER in 3 of their last 5 games, indicating a tendency towards high-scoring encounters, a trend that bettors might find worth considering.
Kent State Golden Flashes Betting Trends
Kent State, much like their opponents, have had their struggles against the spread, going 1-4 in their last 5 games. Their road performance against the spread is slightly better than Ohio’s, at 2-5, but still leaves a lot to be desired. The totals have gone OVER in 3 of their last 5 games, aligning with Ohio’s trend towards high-scoring games, which could influence betting decisions.
Ohio Bobcats vs. Kent State Golden Flashes 1/26/24 Betting Picks
Considering the available data and recent performances, this game promises to be a close encounter with potential for a lot of points on the board. The key players’ impact, coupled with the teams’ offensive capabilities, suggests that the OVER might be a compelling option for bettors.
When deciding between the two teams, the better pick might lean slightly towards Kent State, considering their slightly better record and home advantage. However, Ohio’s potent offense cannot be underestimated, making them a risky but potentially rewarding underdog pick. The best live betting market should offer profitable spot play opportunities as well.
