Sam Houston vs Appalachian State Picks and Prediction – 11/27/2024

The Sam Houston Bearkats (3-2) face off against the Appalachian State Mountaineers (3-2) on November 27th at Trask Coliseum in Wilmington, NC. Both teams are riding two-game win streaks, with the Bearkats dominating Trinity Texas 105-78, while the Mountaineers edged William & Mary 79-76 in the latest contests. Slam dunk your bets with our College Basketball picks.

Sam Houston has been on an offensive tear, averaging 84.6 points per game on 49% shooting. Guard Lamar Wilkerson leads the charge, pouring in 19.6 points per game with impressive accuracy (50.7% FG, 81.8% FT). Supporting Wilkerson is Dorian Finister, contributing 7.2 rebounds per game, ensuring second-chance opportunities for a team excelling in ball movement (19.8 assists per game). 

However, the Bearkats' defense has been a concern, conceding 81.4 points per game, which could be problematic against a disciplined opponent. Sam Houston’s transition defense will need to step up, given the Mountaineers' ability to exploit lapses.

Defensively, the Mountaineers are more consistent, allowing 69.4 points per game while holding opponents to 45.9% shooting. Forward CJ Huntley is Appalachian State’s leader on both ends, averaging 15.6 points and 6.0 rebounds per game. His ability to dominate the paint will be crucial in slowing the Bearkats’ high-paced attack.

Appalachian State’s perimeter defense will also be pivotal, given Sam Houston’s strong offensive numbers. Offensively, the Mountaineers will rely on balanced scoring, though 14.0 assists per game highlight a less fluid offensive structure compared to Sam Houston.

Sam Houston’s offensive firepower, led by Wilkerson’s scoring and Finister’s rebounding, gives the Bearkats a slight edge in this matchup. Appalachian State’s defensive stability might keep it close, but the Bearkats' ability to push the tempo and score efficiently will likely be the difference. Final Score Prediction: Sam Houston wins 86-80.