Cincinnati vs Georgia Tech Picks and Prediction – 11/23/2024

The Cincinnati Bearcats (4-0) bring an unbeaten streak to Atlanta to face the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (2-2) at McCamish Pavilion. Cincinnati dominated Northern Kentucky 76-60 in the last outing, while Georgia Tech suffered a 77-69 loss to Georgia. Both teams aim to assert control in this non-conference clash. Slam dunk your bets with our College Basketball picks.

Cincinnati boasts an explosive offense, averaging 88.5 points per game while shooting an impressive 56.5% from the field. Simas Lukosius leads the way with 17.8 points per game, shooting 73.0% overall. His scoring is supported by forward Dillon Mitchell, who not only averages 8.0 rebounds per game but also contributes defensively with 1.8 steals. The Bearcats thrive in sharing the ball, averaging 20.5 assists per game, led by Jizzle James with 5.5 assists. 

Defensively, Cincinnati has been a wall, holding opponents to just 54.8 points per game and a 37.8% shooting percentage. The Bearcats 8.0 blocks per game, spearheaded by Aziz Bandaogo's 3.5 blocks per game, serve as a deterrent inside. The Bearcats' defensive effort is bolstered by the ability to force turnovers, capitalizing on athleticism to translate stops into points. The disciplined play has made them one of the top defensive units early this season.

Georgia Tech enters this game with a balanced scoring attack, averaging 82.0 points per game, led by Baye Ndongo’s 15.8 points on 46.7% shooting. Luke O’Brien’s presence in the paint has been crucial, pulling down 8.0 rebounds per game and adding a layer of toughness to the Yellow Jackets' interior. Point guard Naithan George distributes effectively, with 5.8 assists per game, as the Yellow Jackets seek to control tempo against a high-powered Cincinnati squad.

Defensively, Georgia Tech has struggled, allowing 76.5 points per game. Opponents have shot 42.9% from the field, and the 4.0 blocks per game, led by Kowacie Reeves Jr., haven’t been enough to deter stronger offenses. Despite Javian McCollum’s efforts with 1.5 steals per game, the Yellow Jackets need to shore up the defense and reduce turnovers to stand a chance against the Bearcats’ efficient attack.

Cincinnati’s offensive firepower, coupled with a stifling defense, makes them the clear favorites in this matchup. Georgia Tech’s defensive issues will likely be exploited, especially in transition. Look for the Bearcats to extend their unbeaten streak. Final Score Prediction: Cincinnati Bearcats wins and covers 90-68.