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San Diego Toreros vs Loyola Marymount Lions: Game Analysis and Prediction

The San Diego Toreros are set to visit the Loyola Marymount Lions on Saturday, January 18th, at the Gersten Pavilion. This matchup offers intriguing betting opportunities and insights into each team’s form and statistics. Let’s dive into the details and provide an in-depth prediction for this West Coast Conference game.

Loyola Marymount Lions: Recent Form and Key Stats

The Loyola Marymount Lions hold a 10-8 overall record, ranking seventh in the West Coast Conference. Coming off a narrow 57-54 victory against Santa Clara, they are 7-10 against the spread and 7-10 in over/under. Notably, the Lions boast an impressive 8-3 record at home.

Offensive and Defensive Performance

• Points Per Game: Averaging 69.6 points (296th nationally).

• Points Allowed: 70.3 per game (147th nationally).

• Shooting Efficiency: 42.9% from the field (281st) and 32.7% from beyond the arc (248th).

• Free Throw Accuracy: 69.6% (248th).

• Rebounds Per Game: 34.9 (238th).

Standout Players

• Caleb Stone-Carrawell: Leads the Lions with 13.8 points per game.

• Jevon Porter: Contributes 13.2 points and a team-high 7.6 rebounds per game.

The Lions’ defense remains a strength, helping them secure close victories at home against non-AP-ranked teams.

San Diego Toreros: Recent Form and Key Stats

The San Diego Toreros have struggled this season with a 4-15 record, placing them ninth in the West Coast Conference. They recently fell short in a 61-65 loss to Washington State, highlighting their difficulties on the road with a 0-5 away record.

Offensive and Defensive Performance

• Points Per Game: Scoring 66.5 points (336th nationally).

• Points Allowed: 76.5 per game (288th nationally).

• Shooting Efficiency: 40.7% from the field (341st) and 27.6% from beyond the arc (359th).

• Free Throw Accuracy: 71.4% (194th).

• Rebounds Per Game: 34.3 (279th).

Standout Players

• Kjay Bradley: Tops the Toreros with 14.9 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game.

• Santiago Trouet: Adds 10.1 points and a team-leading 8.3 rebounds per game.

The Toreros’ struggles on both ends of the court make them vulnerable, particularly in hostile environments like Gersten Pavilion.

Betting Trends and Key Matchup Insights

Loyola Marymount Lions

• The Lions have won their last seven home games against non-AP-ranked opponents.

• They lead Division 1 in opponent blocks per game (1.6).

• Loyola Marymount’s opponents shoot 77.6% from the free-throw line, the worst in Division 1.

San Diego Toreros

• The Toreros are 5-2 against the spread in their last seven matchups with the Lions.

• Over is 7-1 in the last eight meetings between these teams.

• San Diego ranks last in Division 1 for three-point shooting percentage (27.6%).

Head-to-Head Record

In their last six meetings, San Diego holds a 4-2 record. However, Loyola Marymount dominated their most recent encounter, winning 96-62 at home and covering the spread as the game went over the point total.

Prediction and Best Bets

Loyola Marymount enters this game as an 11.5-point home favorite. Given their superior record, better offensive and defensive stats, and strong home performance, they are positioned to control the game. San Diego’s poor road record and struggles with shooting efficiency add to their uphill battle.

Key Prediction

• Pick: Loyola Marymount Lions to win and cover the spread (-11.5).

• Total Points: Lean toward the over, given the high-scoring trend in recent meetings.

Insights

What makes Loyola Marymount a tough opponent at home?

Their strong defense and ability to limit opponent blocks create an edge at Gersten Pavilion, where they excel against non-AP-ranked teams.

Can San Diego turn things around?

Improved shooting efficiency and defensive adjustments are crucial if they aim to stay competitive, particularly on the road.

Why is this game important for the Lions?

A victory helps Loyola Marymount strengthen their position in the West Coast standings and build momentum for tougher upcoming matchups.

Is the over/under a safe bet?

The trend of high-scoring games between these teams makes the over a strong consideration, despite both teams’ average scoring rates.

This analysis combines statistical insights, historical trends, and expert predictions to offer a comprehensive view of the San Diego Toreros vs. Loyola Marymount Lions matchup. Bettors and fans alike can use this guide to make informed decisions and enjoy the game.