UC Irvine Anteaters vs
Cal Poly MustangsPredictions & Preview

UC Irvine Favored to Dominate Cal Poly in Big West Conference Matchup

In a matchup between UC Irvine and Cal Poly in the Big West conference, UC Irvine is the clear favorite with a record of 11-2 overall and 1-0 in conference play. Their past success against Cal Poly, winning both matchups last season by 14 points each, also adds to their advantage. Cal Poly, with a record of 6-8 overall and 0-2 in conference play, will look to overcome their recent loss against Omaha as they face UC Irvine. The game is set to take place at the Mott Athletics Center in San Luis Obispo, California, with UC Irvine opening as the betting favorite at -8 and the current line standing at UC Irvine -9.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Anteaters -400 | Mustangs +310
• Spread: Anteaters -9 (-110) | Mustangs +9 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 158 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that UC Irvine will win straight-up is 80%.

UC Irvine vs Cal Poly Stats

UC Irvine Anteaters

UC Irvine Anteaters have shown strong momentum with an 11-2 record going into league play. Led by center Bent Leuchten and forward Devin Tillis, the team has had notable wins and is ranked 69th overall in Division I. With an efficient defense and steady offensive stats, UC Irvine is proving to be a force to be reckoned with this season.

Cal Poly Mustangs Analysis

The Cal Poly Mustangs are known for playing at a fast pace, maximizing possessions, taking shots early, and pressuring teams on defense. Despite their mixed results so far this season, they have some standout players including Jarred Hyder, Owen Koonce, and Isaac Jessup. Hyder is the top shooter on the team and leads in scoring, assists, and steals. Koonce is the top scorer, and Jessup contributes on the perimeter as well. The team's tallest starter is 6'5, forcing them to play fast out of necessity. Their rankings in offensive and defensive efficiency are not as high as their offense, but they are known as the fastest team in college hoops according to KenPom. In terms of statistics, their offense is strong in shooting percentages and assists, but their defense could use improvement in field goal percentage allowed. Overall, the Mustangs have had some ups and downs this season but have potential for success moving forward.

Cal Poly Faces Defensive Challenges Against UC Irvine, Likely to Struggle On Court

Cal Poly has been noted for their fast pace of play this season, leading the nation in tempo. However, their performance on the court tells a different story. With a current record of 6-8, the Mustangs have struggled defensively, ranking 285th in defensive efficiency. Their style of play results in a higher number of possessions for both themselves and their opponents, often leading to unfavorable outcomes. In their upcoming matchup against UC Irvine, who boasts a strong defensive presence and a dominant senior center in Bent Leuchten, Cal Poly is expected to face significant challenges. Leuchten's recent performances indicate his ability to outmatch Cal Poly's front line. With UC Irvine ranked 19th in defensive efficiency, it is unlikely that Cal Poly will be able to score effectively in this matchup. Therefore, it is advisable to take UC Irvine to cover in this game.

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