SipaUsa / Icon Sport

Texas Southern Tigers vs Alabama State Hornets: Predictions, Betting Preview, and Insights

The Texas Southern Tigers and Alabama State Hornets face off in an exciting college basketball matchup on Monday at the Dunn-Oliver Acadome. Both teams bring unique strengths and challenges, making this game a compelling showdown. In this article, we’ll break down team stats, key players, betting trends, and provide expert predictions to help you make informed decisions.

Team Overviews

Texas Southern Tigers Betting Preview

The Texas Southern Tigers enter this matchup with momentum after securing victories against Alabama A&M and Jackson State. Their upcoming schedule includes games against Prairie View A&M, Arkansas-Pine Bluff, and Florida A&M.

Here’s a closer look at their stats:

• Points per game (PPG): 73

• Field goal percentage: 42.4%

• Opponent points per game: 77

• Top performers:

• Kevion McClain: 14.2 PPG, 2.9 rebounds

• Zaire Hayes: 10.1 PPG, 1.8 rebounds

• Kenny Hunter: 6.2 rebounds per game

The Tigers excel at converting free throws, shooting 73.6% from the line. However, their defense has struggled, allowing opponents to shoot 42.1% from the field and 35.6% from beyond the arc.

Alabama State Hornets Betting Preview

The Alabama State Hornets have also been on a roll, picking up wins against Alabama A&M and Prairie View A&M. Their upcoming games include matchups against Bethune-Cookman, Florida A&M, and Grambling.

Key stats include:

• Points per game (PPG): 75.8

• Field goal percentage: 41.7%

• Opponent points per game: 77.7

• Top performers:

• Amarr Knox: 15.1 PPG, 1.9 rebounds

• CJ Hines: 14.6 PPG, 2.9 rebounds

• TJ Madlock: Double-digit scorer

The Hornets have been solid from beyond the arc, shooting 33.2%, but their free-throw percentage (68.3%) leaves room for improvement. Defensively, they allow opponents to shoot 44.9% from the field.

Why Alabama State Has the Edge

• Home Court Advantage: Alabama State remains undefeated at the Dunn-Oliver Acadome this season, winning all five home games.

• Strong First-Half Performances: The Hornets have led at halftime in six of their last seven games.

• Momentum: Alabama State’s recent victories at home have bolstered their confidence heading into this matchup.

Why Texas Southern Could Prevail

• Dominance in Head-to-Head Matchups: Texas Southern has won nine of the last 10 games against Alabama State, including their last matchup in February 2020.

• Defensive Prowess: The Tigers rank 30th in Division 1 for steals per game (9.1) and 28th in pace (71.9).

• Clutch Performances in Night Games: Texas Southern has won 15 of its last 16 night games against Alabama State.

Key Betting Trends

• Low-Scoring Games:

• 10 of Alabama State’s last 11 night games at the Dunn-Oliver Acadome have produced a total of 139 or fewer points.

• Each of Texas Southern’s last four night games in the Southwestern Athletic Conference have produced a total of 141 or fewer points.

• Pace of Play: Alabama State ranks 25th in Division 1 for field goal attempts per game (63.5), while Texas Southern’s fast pace (71.9 possessions per game) could lead to a higher-scoring contest.

Injury Report

Neither team has any players listed on their injury reports, ensuring both squads will be at full strength for this matchup.

Expert Predictions

While Alabama State’s home-court advantage and strong recent form make them a formidable opponent, Texas Southern’s defensive consistency and dominance in head-to-head matchups cannot be overlooked. Texas Southern’s ability to disrupt passing lanes and force turnovers could prove decisive.

Prediction: Texas Southern Tigers +2.5 on the spread.

Insights

What makes Alabama State so tough at home?

Alabama State thrives at the Dunn-Oliver Acadome due to strong crowd support and a fast start in games, as evidenced by their six first-half leads in the last seven home matches.

Can Texas Southern’s defense neutralize Alabama State?

Texas Southern’s top-30 ranking in steals per game highlights their defensive prowess. Their ability to pressure the ball and force turnovers could limit Alabama State’s offensive rhythm.

How do these teams compare in pace?

Both teams play at a fast pace, with Texas Southern ranking 28th in Division 1 for possessions per game. This could lead to a competitive, high-energy game.

What’s the impact of three-point shooting in this matchup?

Both teams shoot 33.2% from beyond the arc, but Texas Southern’s ability to defend the perimeter (allowing just 35.6% shooting from deep) could tilt the scales in their favor.

Who has the edge in clutch moments?

Texas Southern’s experience in high-pressure games and their strong track record in night games make them a dangerous opponent late in close contests.

In conclusion, this Texas Southern vs. Alabama State matchup promises to be a thrilling contest between two competitive teams. Whether you’re betting on the spread, the total points, or just enjoying the game, this breakdown provides a detailed roadmap to understanding the dynamics at play. Stay tuned for what should be an exciting night of college basketball!