Hofstra Pride vs. Duke Blue Devils – As the NCAA Men’s Basketball season heats up, Hofstra Pride and Duke Blue Devils are set for an eagerly anticipated matchup. Both teams currently share an identical record and this game could determine who emerges victorious. Tyler Thomas of Hofstra and Kyle Filipowski from Duke are two key players that should be kept an eye on; their performance could determine the game’s result, making this must-watch for fans looking for NCAAB latest picks.
Hofstra Pride vs. Duke Blue Devils
Date & Time: Tuesday, December 12, 2023, at 7:00 PM ET
Location: Cameron Indoor Stadium
TV: ESP2
Hofstra Pride vs. Duke Blue Devils Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
| Hofstra | TBD | TBD | TBD |
| Duke | TBD | TBD | TBD |
Hofstra Pride Analysis
Hofstra Pride enter this matchup riding high after five consecutive wins including impressive wins over Manhattan, Stony Brook and Monmouth. Hofstra is an extremely efficient offensive team, ranking 27th nationally with an average scoring output of 82 points per game on 48.5% shooting from the field and 40% 3-pointers made. They move the ball efficiently as evidenced by 17.9 assists per game as well as consistently reaching the free throw line where they convert at 78.1% rate.
Though not lockdown, Hofstra Pride defends respectably given their scoring pace. They allow 73.4 points on 43% opposing shooting (ranked 98th) while outrebounding opponents by +5 per game thanks to veterans like 6’8″ forward Aaron Estrada who averages five boards from his wing spot each game.
Tyler Thomas has been the cornerstone of Hofstra Pride’s success this season. The senior guard currently ranks fifth nationally with 22.9 points per game on 44.4% shooting overall and 43.9% from deep. Furthermore, this six-foot one playmaker contributes 5 rebounds, 3.5 assists and one steal per game while also limiting turnovers. His versatile scoring ability and decision-making will be crucial if Hofstra hopes to compete with Duke on their home floor.
Duke Blue Devils Analysis
Duke has had its share of ups and downs during this rebuilding year after losing three key scorers from last season’s Final Four squad. At times led by impressive rookie Kyle Filipowski, they have looked phenomenal, while struggling with consistency issues and defensive lapses in some ugly losses. On offense, Duke averages 80.9 points on 47.6% shooting while only managing to convert 33.3% from outside; Star center Kyle Filipowski and veteran junior Jeremy Roach provide consistent scoring options, but lack perimeter threats which allows teams to collapse inside against them; Additionally they commit nearly 15 turnovers per game which has left opponents taking advantage.
Defense has been Duke’s hallmark, holding opponents to 70.1 points per game thanks to Kyle Filipowski who leads the ACC with 1.9 blocks per game as well as 1.3 steals. But their aggressive style leads them into frequent fouling (they rank bottom 25 nationally in fouls committed per game), leaving them vulnerable against disciplined Hofstra teams like this one. Filipowski has exceeded all expectations this season averaging 18.9 points and 8.4 rebounds on 53% shooting; it will be crucial that he stays out of foul trouble so he can continue carrying Duke forward as often has done this year.
Hofstra Pride vs. Duke Blue Devils Against the Spread
Hofstra University has enjoyed impressive recent form, boasting an incredible four-1 mark against the spread in their last five games and three wins on the road. Their success may provide betting enthusiasts with some incentive.
Duke has struggled against the spread in their last five games, going 1-4 against it and failing to cover road games (0-2). This may cause concern among bettors who prefer Duke as their betting pick.
Hofstra Pride vs. Duke Blue Devils Free Pick
Based on odds, trends, team stats, and key players, here are the picks:
Moneyline: Hofstra Pride. Their recent form and ability to consistently outperform expectations make them a solid pick.
Spread: Hofstra Pride. Given their impressive record against the spread and Duke’s struggles in this area, Hofstra seems the safer bet.
Total: Over. Both teams have shown a propensity to score high, and past games have often exceeded total points predictions.
Predicted Score: Hofstra Pride 85, Duke Blue Devils 80
Overall, while exact odds have yet to be released for this game, sports betting in Canada offers intriguing options. Hofstra Pride with their current form and Tyler Thomas is likely a safe bet; however, considering how unpredictable NCAA basketball can be it would be foolish not to count out Duke with their home advantage and strategic surprises that may occur in game 1.
