VMI vs George Washington Picks and Prediction – 11/29/2024

The George Washington Revolutionaries host the VMI Keydets in a non-conference matchup. George Washington, sitting at 6-1 and undefeated at home, comes off a 72-64 win against Illinois State. The Keydets, 4-4 on the season, narrowly lost 70-67 to Loyola Maryland in the most recent contest, marking a third straight loss. Slam dunk your bets with our College Basketball picks.

VMI's offense, averaging 76.6 points per game, relies heavily on forward TJ Johnson, who leads the team with 15.8 points per game and a solid 49.4% field goal percentage. Guard Tan Yildizoglu orchestrates the offense, averaging 5.4 assists per game, helping the Keydets maintain a respectable 42.2% shooting from the field. While the rebounding effort is led by Augustinas Kiudulas with 6.4 per game, VMI's inconsistency on the offensive glass has been evident. The 37.0 rebounds per game place them at a slight advantage in second-chance opportunities, but turnovers remain a problem for the Keydets.

Defensively, VMI allows 72.3 points per game, a vulnerability that opponents like George Washington can exploit. Despite TJ Johnson's contributions with 1.9 steals per game, the team's defensive stats show room for improvement, particularly in rim protection, as they average only 0.8 blocks per game. Facing a Revolutionaries team that scores at a higher clip, VMI's defense must tighten up to avoid falling behind early.

George Washington, scoring 79.0 points per game, boasts an efficient offense led by forward Darren Buchanan Jr., averaging 15.7 points per game and an impressive 45.7% field goal percentage. Buchanan also dominates the boards with 9.0 rebounds per game, providing his team with crucial second-chance points. Guard Jacoi Hutchinson adds 3.8 assists per game, maintaining a balanced attack for the Revolutionaries. George Washington’s shooting efficiency, with a 44.1% field goal percentage, makes them tough to defend, especially at home.

Defensively, the Revolutionaries allow 68.3 points per game, showcasing a stronger defensive presence than VMI. Buchanan contributes on both ends, leading the team with 1.7 steals per game, while Rafael Castro anchors the defense with 1.1 blocks per game. With these defensive stats, George Washington should have little trouble containing VMI's offensive threats.

George Washington's home dominance and superior defensive stats give them the edge. The offense, led by Darren Buchanan Jr., should overwhelm VMI's struggling defense. Look for the Revolutionaries to maintain control throughout the game. Final Score Prediction: George Washington Revolutionaries win but fail to cover 81-68.