Youngstown State vs Stephen F. Austin Picks and Prediction – 11/24/2024

The Youngstown State Penguins are set to face the Stephen F. Austin Lumberjacks on November 23, 2024, at the Axe ‘Em Classic hosted at the William R. Johnson Coliseum in Nacogdoches, Texas. Get in on the action with our free NCAAB picks.

Youngstown State comes into the matchup with a 2-3 record, having alternated between impressive wins and lopsided losses. Their latest game against Presbyterian resulted in a disheartening 67-42 loss, emphasizing the team’s inconsistency on offense. Forward Nico Galette leads the Penguins with 15.3 points and 7.0 rebounds per game, but the team as a whole is struggling to find rhythm, averaging 73.5 points while allowing 76.8 points per contest—a significant defensive gap.

Stephen F. Austin, boasting a 3-3 record, is on an upswing after edging Monmouth 72-67 in their last outing. The Lumberjacks, led by Chris Johnson’s 10.7 points and 4 rebounds per game, have showcased a balanced attack and stronger defensive identity, allowing only 60.4 points per game. However, they have had their own struggles offensively, highlighted by an inefficient performance against Presbyterian earlier in the tournament, losing 58-55. SFA’s ability to capitalize on turnovers and dominate the boards, averaging 41.2 rebounds per game, provides them with a distinct advantage against the Penguins’ relatively weaker frontcourt.

Both teams are looking to make a statement in this concluding game of the Axe ‘Em Classic. Youngstown State needs an improved defensive effort and scoring consistency from its supporting cast, while SFA will aim to exploit their home-court advantage and maintain their superior rebounding and defensive pressure.

Stephen F. Austin’s defensive discipline and rebounding strength are likely to be the deciding factors. Expect the Lumberjacks to outlast Youngstown State in a closely fought game, with a final margin of around 6-8 points in their favor, leading us to a pick on the Lumberjacks. Prediction: Stephen F. Austin wins a tight battle 78-72.