VMI vs East Tennessee State Picks and Prediction – 3/9/2024

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In the first round of the SoCon Championship, the VMI Keydets (4-27, 1-17 Southern) face off against the East Tennessee State Buccaneers (16-15, 8-10 Southern). VMI enters this matchup on the back of a tough season, with a recent loss to Wofford of 74-62, while ETSU snagged a victory over UNC Greensbro 66-65 in the last game. Slam dunk your bets with our College Basketball picks.

The VMI Keydets have faced a challenging season, struggling to find any rhythm on both ends of the court. With a team that's ranked 300th in points per game (69.0) and 305th in field goal percentage (42.1%), offensive efficiency has been a major issue. 

Brennan Watkins, who leads the team in points (15.1) and assists (3.0) per game, along with Taeshaud Jackson's impressive 10.4 rebounds per game, have been bright spots. However, defensive shortcomings have been more pronounced, allowing an average of 82.1 points per game, ranking 359th. A recent performance, a 69-82 loss to ETSU, highlighted these ongoing struggles.

ETSU Buccaneers, on the other hand, have shown more balance and strength throughout the campaign. Despite a modest offensive output, ranking 279th in points per game (70.2), the defense has been comparatively solid, conceding 69.3 points per game which ranks 99th. 

Ebby Asamoah and Quimari Peterson have been pivotal for ETSU, with Asamoah leading in scoring (15.3 PPG) and Peterson in assists (3.8) and steals (1.7). In the last game against VMI, ETSU showcased an ability to control the pace, securing an 82-69 victory, which they'll look to replicate.