American University Eagles vs Bucknell Bison
Thursday, February 19, 2026
Final Score American 75 - Bucknell 57
Spread: W
Total:
Matchup Analysis
This NCAAB matchup features American University Eagles (15-13 (11-4)) traveling to take on Bucknell Bison (8-20 (5-7)) at Sojka Pavilion, Lewisburg, PA. The American hold a clear statistical edge this season, outperforming the Bucknell by 8.7 points per game in scoring margin. That differential will be a key factor in this matchup.
Bucknell averages 70.7 points per game, but they face a American defense that holds opponents to 72.0 PPG. The visitors' defensive prowess could limit the home team's scoring output. Meanwhile, American scores 75.7 PPG but faces a Bucknell defense that limits opponents to 75.7 PPG. The home team's defensive effort could be the difference-maker.
Home court advantage is worth approximately 3.5 points in NCAAB, and Bucknell will look to leverage their home crowd. Our model sees this as essentially a coin-flip game, projecting just a 2.5-point margin. Expect a tight finish. The 68% confidence interval ranges from Bucknell winning by 10 to losing by 15.
Our model aligns closely with the market on this one, suggesting the oddsmakers have priced this game efficiently. Look for small edges in the total and moneyline markets to capitalize on any remaining value.
Team Comparison
AMER American
Stat
BUCK Bucknell
15-13 (11-4)
Record
8-20 (5-7)
Last 10
75.7
PPG
70.7
72.0
Opp PPG
75.7
Current Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| AMER American University Eagles | -175 ↓ | -3.5 ↓ | O 140.5 |
| BUCK Bucknell Bison | +145 ↑ | +3.5 ↑ | U 140.5 |
Source: Draft Kings Updated: Feb 19, 7:37 PM
Opening line: +2.5 / O/U 140.5
Model Projection
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| AMER American University Eagles | -138 | -2.5 | O 146.4 |
| BUCK Bucknell Bison | +138 | +2.5 | U 146.4 |
Source: Model Updated: Feb 19, 6:54 PM
Our Picks
Spread
W
American (opened at +2.5)
55% Confidence
Total
Pass
Model: 146.4 | Edge below threshold
Recent Trends
Bucknell has struggled this season at 8-20 (5-7). The wins have been hard to come by, and the team is looking for answers on both ends of the floor. Home court advantage will be critical for any chance at pulling off an upset.
American sits at 15-13 (11-4) on the season. They've been competitive in most outings but have had their share of inconsistent performances. On the road, they'll need to bring their best effort to come away with a win.
When these teams meet, the home team typically has the edge given the crowd advantage and familiarity factor. The team that controls tempo and limits turnovers will likely dictate the outcome of this matchup.
Matchup Edges
Bucknell
Advantages
- Home court advantage and crowd support
- Familiarity with home venue and routines
Disadvantages
- Sub-.500 record at 8-20 (5-7) raises concerns
- Defense allows 75.7 PPG — a vulnerability
American
Advantages
- Potent offense averaging 75.7 PPG
- Nothing to lose as the visiting team
- Road underdog motivation — play with less pressure
Disadvantages
- Playing on the road without home crowd support
- Road fatigue and travel can impact energy levels