Niagara vs Lafayette Picks and Prediction – 11/30/2024

The Niagara Purple Eagles (1-4, 0-4 away) face the Lafayette Leopards (2-4, 2-0 home) at the Kirby Sports Center on November 30, 2024. Niagara is coming off a narrow 76-73 loss to Kent State, while Lafayette notched an emphatic 91-45 victory over Rosemont. Slam dunk your bets with our College Basketball picks.

Niagara’s offense has shown glimpses of potential, averaging 75.8 points per game with a 45.2% field goal percentage. Forward Olumide Adelodun leads the scoring for the Purple Eagles, averaging 13.6 points per game while shooting 43.4% from the floor. Justice Smith facilitates the offense, contributing 2.6 assists per game, but rebounding has been a concern, with Adelodun also leading with just 4.2 boards per game. 

Defensively, Niagara allows 79.4 points per game and struggles on the glass, averaging only 29.2 rebounds. While Jahari Williamson contributes with 1.8 steals per game, the team’s lack of interior presence is highlighted by just 0.8 blocks per game.

Lafayette’s offense operates at a slower pace but with balanced contributions, scoring 70.3 points per game on 41.5% shooting. Guard Devin Hines leads the way with 12.2 points per game, supported by Misha Bednostin, who averages 7.8 rebounds per game. Mark Butler’s 2.7 assists help maintain ball movement. 

Defensively, the Leopards allow 71.8 points per game but excel in rebounding, averaging 33.7 boards. Ryan Pettit anchors the defense with 2.0 steals per game, though rim protection remains weak with just 0.3 blocks per game. At home, Lafayette’s defensive energy has been crucial, evidenced by holding Rosemont to just 45 points in the most recent win.

Lafayette’s balanced scoring and home-court advantage give them the edge against Niagara’s inconsistent defense and rebounding. Expect the Leopards to control the boards and pace while limiting Niagara’s offensive output. Final Score Prediction: Lafayette Leopards win 74-68.