Valparaiso Crusaders vs Liberty Flames Betting Picks & Predictions

Game outlook

The Valparaiso Beacons will be facing off against the Liberty Flames at the John Wooden Family Fieldhouse to kick off the college basketball season. Last year, the Beacons had a challenging season finishing with a record of 7-25 and a first-round loss in the Mountain Valley Conference to the Belmont Bruins. Liberty, on the other hand, ended the previous season with an 18-14 record but fell short in the Conference USA Quarterfinals against the UTEP Miners. Liberty is currently favored to win the upcoming game with an opening line of -9.5, which has since shifted to Liberty -10.

Betting Odds

Moneyline: Crusaders +400 | Flames -536

Spread: Crusaders +10 (-110) | Flames -10 (-110)

Total: Over/Under 138.5 (-110)

Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Liberty will win straight-up is 84%.

Valparaiso Crusaders

Valparaiso Beacons are focused on improving their performance this season after a challenging 7-25 record last year. Despite the departure of guard Jaxon Edwards, who transferred to St. Bonaventure, the team has many familiar faces returning. Coach Roger Powell is leading the team for the second season, promising an intriguing season ahead. Last season, the Beacons struggled offensively and defensively, ranking 320th in offense and 282nd in defense. Currently, they are ranked 304th in power rankings, with a record of 0-0 this season. Offensively, they struggle with field goal percentage and three-pointers but have a decent free throw percentage. Defensively, they allow a high percentage of field goals but excel in limiting three-pointers. The team is yet to report any injuries.