Delaware Blue Hens vs
Iona GaelsPredictions & Preview

University of Delaware Blue Hens Favored to Outperform Iona Gaels by 5.5 Points in College Basketball Showdown

Week 2 of the college basketball season is in full swing, with the Delaware Blue Hens taking on the Iona Gales. Delaware holds a record of 1-1, while Iona is currently 0-2. The Gaels are favored by 5.5 points at home, with the line moving to Iona -6. This matchup is sure to be an exciting one to watch.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Blue Hens +218 | Gaels -259
• Spread: Blue Hens +6 (-110) | Gaels -6 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 152 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Iona will win straight-up is 72%.

Delaware vs Iona Stats

Delaware Blue Hens

The Delaware Blue Hens are coming off a successful 2023-24 campaign and are looking to build on that momentum in the new season. Despite dropping their season opener, they responded with a win over Robert Morris. Niels Lane, in his second year with the team, has emerged as a standout player, leading the team in scoring and rebounding. Senior guard Erik Timko is also making an impact after transferring from DII Jefferson University. While the Blue Hens have allowed a high number of points, they are excelling in steals and blocks. In terms of statistical rankings, Delaware is currently ranked 231 in offense and 287 in defense, with a record of 1-1. The team's shooting percentages and rebounding numbers are in need of improvement, but they are showing promise early in the season.

Iona Gaels Analysis

After a disappointing 16-17 season in 2023-24, the Iona Gaels are focused on rebuilding their program and returning to their former success. The team has started this season with two road losses but is looking to turn things around in their upcoming home game. Senior transfer Clarence Rupert has been a standout player, averaging 17.5 points and 6 rebounds per game. Dejour Reaves, another senior transfer, leads the team in rebounds but has struggled with shooting efficiency. The Gaels have struggled defensively, allowing over 80 points in each game and only averaging 1 block per game. Their power ranking is at 120, with an offensive ranking of 172 and a defensive ranking of 265. Iona has shown strength in three-point shooting but weaknesses in field goal and free throw percentages. Their rebounding and turnover numbers are also areas needing improvement. Defensively, the Gaels struggle with opponent field goal percentages but excel at limiting three-point shots.Overall, the team is looking to improve their performance and climb back up the rankings.

University of Delaware's Basketball Team Favored to Cover 5.5 Point Spread vs. Iona College

I project that the University of Delaware's men's basketball team will cover the 5.5 point spread against Iona College on Tuesday evening. With a recent victory over Robert Morris, the Blue Hens have demonstrated their ability to secure wins early in the season. Niels Lane returns to a team that achieved 19 wins last season and has showcased exceptional performance thus far. Conversely, Iona has faced defeat in their first two games and may require additional time to synergize after integrating multiple new transfers. The outcome of this matchup may hinge on effective interior defense, an area in which Delaware has excelled. Thus, their advantage in controlling the paint could prove pivotal in securing a victory against an Iona team that has struggled defensively, allowing over 85 points per game.

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