Louisiana-Lafayette vs Liberty Picks and Prediction – 11/22/2024

The Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns will face the Liberty Flames on November 22, 2024, at the Virgin Islands Sport & Fitness Center in St. Thomas as part of the U.S. Virgin Islands Paradise Jam. Both teams are looking to rebound after mixed starts to their seasons. Louisiana (1-3) seeks to regain form following losses to Rice and Houston, while Liberty (4-1) aims to continue building on their strong defensive performances in non-conference play. Get ready for the college basketball season with our college basketball picks.

Louisiana has struggled offensively, averaging just 63.5 points per game while allowing 77.3 points, reflecting their difficulty in both scoring and defensive consistency. Christian Wright has led the team with 9 points per game, but the Ragin' Cajuns will need contributions from other players like Zeke Cook and Kentrell Garnett to compete against Liberty's disciplined defense. Turnovers have also plagued Louisiana, with the team averaging 12.8 per game.

Liberty has been strong on both ends of the floor, scoring 74.4 points per game while holding opponents to an impressive 59.2 points. Guard Kaden Metheny has been a standout, averaging 14.3 points per game, and Owen Aquino has dominated the boards with 6.6 rebounds per game. Liberty’s ability to convert turnovers into points has been a key to their success, as they average just 9.4 turnovers per game themselves.

Liberty’s balanced offense and stout defense make them favorites in this matchup. Louisiana’s chances will depend on finding scoring from players beyond Wright and limiting turnovers against Liberty’s pressure. After Louisiana’s last game, it is apparent they are going to have an uphill battle on offense all year. We will take Liberty’s more explosive offense to win handily. Predicted score: Liberty wins and covers 74-62.