Holy Cross Crusaders vs Bucknell Bison

This NCAAB matchup features Holy Cross Crusaders (10-19 (6-7)) traveling to take on Bucknell Bison (8-21 (5-8)) at Sojka Pavilion, Lewisburg, PA. The Holy Cross hold a clear statistical edge this season, outperforming the Bucknell by 5.0 points per game in scoring margin. That differential will be a key factor in this matchup. Bucknell averages 66.9 points per game, but they face a Holy Cross defense that holds opponents to 73.0 PPG. The visitors' defensive prowess could limit the home team's scoring output. Meanwhile, Holy Cross scores 68.1 PPG but faces a Bucknell defense that limits opponents to 76.8 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 1.6-point margin. Expect a tight finish. The 68% confidence interval ranges from Bucknell winning by 14 to losing by 11. 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.

Bucknell has struggled this season at 8-21 (5-8). 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. It's been a difficult season for Holy Cross at 10-19 (6-7). Traveling to face Bucknell presents a significant challenge, though every game is a chance to build for the future. 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.