Stephen F. Austin vs New Orleans Picks and Prediction – 2/4/2025

Stephen F. Austin enters at 9-13 overall and 2-9 in conference play, looking to recover from a 79-72 loss to Texas A&M-Commerce. The Lumberjacks average 64.4 points while allowing 65.0, struggling with efficiency at 42.3% shooting. Matt Hayman leads with 12.6 points per game on 42.5% shooting. The team rebounds well, securing 38.3 boards per contest, with Nana Antwi-Boasiako leading at 6.2 per game. Offensive consistency remains an issue, but the ability to control the glass gives them an edge. Slam dunk your bets with our College Basketball picks.

Defensively, Stephen F. Austin has been competitive, limiting opponents to 65.0 points per game. The Lumberjacks generate 8.9 steals per game, with Hayman leading at 1.8. Rim protection is a concern, averaging only 4.2 blocks per game, with Antwi-Boasiako contributing 1.3. Against a struggling New Orleans defense, the Lumberjacks’ ability to force turnovers and limit second-chance opportunities could be the deciding factor.

New Orleans is 4-18 overall and 2-9 in conference play, on a four-game losing streak after an 86-76 loss to Houston Christian. The Privateers average 67.5 points per game but allow 83.0, one of the worst defensive marks in the nation. James White leads the offense with 19.2 points per game on 42.9% shooting. The team shoots just 40.2% overall and struggles on the boards, pulling in 34.3 rebounds per game.

Defensively, New Orleans has been a liability, consistently allowing opponents to score with ease. The team averages only 2.5 blocks per game, with MJ Thomas leading at 0.7. The Privateers also force just 7.7 steals per game, putting additional pressure on an already weak defense. Against a team like Stephen F. Austin that plays with defensive intensity, New Orleans must improve both shot selection and defensive effort to stay competitive.

Stephen F. Austin’s defensive pressure and rebounding should dictate this game. New Orleans has been one of the worst defensive teams in the nation, and the Lumberjacks should capitalize. Expect Stephen F. Austin to control tempo and force turnovers on the way to a win. Final Score Prediction: Stephen F. Austin wins and covers 72-65.