Iona vs Tarleton State Picks and Prediction – 11/29/2024

The Iona Gaels and the Tarleton State Texans both enter this matchup with identical 1-5 records, looking to break losing streaks. Iona is coming off a disappointing 84-68 loss to Cornell, while Tarleton State suffered a 72-49 defeat to Michigan in the last game. Slam dunk your bets with our College Basketball picks.

Iona has struggled offensively this season, averaging just 64.5 points per game while shooting 36.9% from the field. Dejour Reaves leads the team in scoring with 13.5 points per game but has struggled with efficiency, shooting 34.9%. Yaphet Moundi provides a physical presence with 7.2 rebounds per game, while Adam Njie adds 4.0 assists per game. The Gaels have relied on the ability to generate turnovers, averaging 8.8 steals per contest, but poor shooting and limited bench production have hampered overall offensive output.

Defensively, the Gaels allow 77.3 points per game, with opponents shooting effectively against them. Iona’s interior defense has been inconsistent, and the team averages only 2.2 blocks per game. Moundi is a key player defensively, but the lack of rim protection has been costly. Transition defense has also been a weak point, contributing to recent struggles.

Tarleton State faces similar challenges offensively, putting up 59.0 points per game on 42.1% shooting. Bubu Benjamin has been the bright spot for the Texans, averaging 15.0 points per game with an efficient 50.0% shooting percentage. However, the supporting cast has been underwhelming, and the team struggles to generate consistent offensive momentum. The rebounding numbers are concerning, with only 28.0 rebounds per game, making it difficult to control the pace of games.

Defensively, Tarleton State has been porous, allowing 82.0 points per game. Despite decent shot-blocking from Chris Mpaka, who averages 1.7 blocks per game, the Texans have struggled to defend against high-scoring opponents. Steal's leader Jordan Mizell (1.5 per game) has provided defensive intensity, but overall team defense remains an area for improvement.

Both teams have faced significant struggles, but Iona’s ability to generate turnovers could be the difference in this game. The Gaels' offensive struggles align with Tarleton’s defensive weaknesses, giving Iona an edge in a tightly contested matchup. Final Score Prediction: Iona Gaels win but fail to cover 67-63.