Siena vs Bucknell Picks and Prediction – 11/30/2024

The Bucknell Bison (4-4) and Siena Saints (3-4) clash at the Mohegan Sun Arena on Saturday. Bucknell comes off a tough loss to Maryland, while Siena looks to rebound from a four-game losing streak. Both teams aim to shift momentum with improved performances. Slam dunk your bets with our College Basketball picks.

Bucknell’s offense has been relatively effective, averaging 75.3 points per game on 44.1% shooting. Center Noah Williamson is a standout, leading the team with 15.6 points and 7.9 rebounds per game. Guard Josh Bascoe is the playmaker, averaging 3.6 assists per contest. The Bison have been strong on the boards, grabbing 36.9 rebounds per game, which often translates into second-chance points. However, the defense has struggled, allowing 77.9 points per game. 

Defensively, Bucknell has shown room for improvement, with key defensive stats lagging. Despite Williamson’s effort with 1.9 blocks per game, the team has struggled with defensive rotations, leading to lapses against faster opponents. Improving the defense, especially on fast breaks and during clutch moments, will be crucial against Siena.

Siena enters with a record of 3-4 and averages 67.6 points per game on 40.3% shooting. Guard Major Freeman leads the Saints offensively with 13.9 points per game, while Marcus Jackson contributes with 5.6 rebounds. Justice Shoats adds value with 3.3 assists and 1.7 steals per game. Despite a balanced attack, the Saints’ offense has lacked consistency, and turnovers have been a recurring issue. 

The Saints’ 32.4 rebounds per game indicate room for improvement on the boards. Defensively, Siena has struggled, allowing 74.3 points per game. Center Peter Carey provides a strong presence in the paint with 2.0 blocks per game, but overall defensive pressure has been lacking. 

Bucknell’s offensive edge and rebounding superiority give them a clear advantage in this matchup. While both teams face defensive challenges, the Bison’s scoring consistency and Williamson’s dominant presence inside should prove too much for Siena. Final Score Prediction: Bucknell Bison win 78-70.