FIU vs CS Bakersfield Picks and Prediction – 11/23/2024

The Florida International Panthers (1-3) take on the Cal State Bakersfield Roadrunners (3-1) in Fort Myers, Florida. Florida International is coming off a 75-70 loss to Howard, while Bakersfield extended its winning streak to three with a dominant 74-56 victory over Fresno State. Slam dunk your bets with our College Basketball picks.

The Panthers have shown offensive potential, averaging 81.3 points per game on 43.7% shooting. Jayden Brewer leads the charge with 17.8 points per game and adds 5.8 rebounds, making him the most consistent performer. Supporting Brewer, Ashton Williamson dishes out 4.5 assists per game, while the team averages an impressive 17.3 assists overall. However, defensive struggles are notable, allowing 71.8 points per game and often getting outmuscled on the boards. The team’s 39.3 rebounds per game pale in comparison to Bakersfield's physicality.

Defensively, the Panthers rely on creating turnovers, averaging 10.8 steals per game, with Asim Jones leading with 3.0 steals per contest. However, shot-blocking is limited, with Vianney Salatchoum averaging just 1.5 blocks. Controlling the paint and improving defensive rebounding will be critical if Florida International hopes to compete against a well-rounded Bakersfield squad.

Cal State Bakersfield thrives offensively, scoring 88.8 points per game with a highly efficient 50.4% shooting clip. Jemel Jones is the cornerstone of the attack, leading the team with 19.8 points per game while shooting 59.6% from the field. Corey Stephenson adds 6.5 rebounds per game, helping Bakersfield dominate the glass with a team average of 44.5 boards. Bakersfield's balanced offensive approach creates opportunities to exploit mismatches across the floor.

Defensively, Bakersfield holds opponents to just 69.0 points per game. The disciplined structure and size advantage have stifled opposing offenses. Fidelis Okereke plays a pivotal role defensively with 1.8 blocks and 1.0 steals per game. Bakersfield's ability to control the tempo and protect the rim makes them a challenging opponent for the Panthers.

Cal State Bakersfield's efficient offense and superior rebounding will be too much for Florida International to handle. Bakersfield's defensive discipline and offensive balance make them the stronger side in this matchup. Final Score Prediction: Cal State Bakersfield wins 85-72.