SharpBetz
NCAAB

Bryant Bulldogs vs UMBC Retrievers

Thursday, February 26, 2026

Matchup Analysis

This NCAAB matchup features Bryant Bulldogs (8-19 (7-5)) traveling to take on UMBC Retrievers (18-8 (11-2)) at Chesapeake Employers Insurance Arena, Baltimore, MD. The UMBC hold a clear statistical edge this season, outperforming the Bryant by 14.5 points per game in scoring margin. That differential will be a key factor in this matchup. On offense, UMBC averages 74.8 points per game, which exceeds what the Bryant defense typically allows (72.6 PPG). That mismatch could give the home side opportunities to exploit. Meanwhile, Bryant scores 64.6 PPG but faces a UMBC defense that limits opponents to 68.3 PPG. The home team's defensive effort could be the difference-maker. Home court advantage is worth approximately 3.5 points in NCAAB, and UMBC will look to leverage their home crowd. The UMBC are heavy favorites in this one, with our model projecting a 10.6-point advantage. The 68% confidence interval ranges from UMBC winning by 23 to losing by 2. 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

BRY Bryant
Stat
UMBC UMBC
8-19 (7-5)
Record
18-8 (11-2)
Last 10
64.6
PPG
74.8
72.6
Opp PPG
68.3

Current Odds

Team Moneyline Spread Total
BRY Bryant Bulldogs
+490 +11.5 O 139.5
UMBC UMBC Retrievers
-675 -11.5 U 139.5
Source: Draft Kings Updated: Feb 27, 4:47 AM
Opening line: -11.5 / O/U 139.5

Model Projection

Team Moneyline Spread Total
BRY Bryant Bulldogs
+420 +10.6 O 139.4
UMBC UMBC Retrievers
-420 -10.6 U 139.4
Source: Model Updated: Feb 26, 5:59 AM

Our Picks

Spread
Pass
Model: -10.6 | Edge below threshold
Total
Pass
Model: 139.4 | Edge below threshold

Recent Trends

UMBC enters at 18-8 (11-2), hovering around the .500 mark. They've shown flashes of strong play but haven't been able to sustain consistency. At home, they'll look to put together a complete performance and build momentum. It's been a difficult season for Bryant at 8-19 (7-5). Traveling to face UMBC 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.

Matchup Edges

UMBC

Advantages

  • Strong 18-8 (11-2) overall record this season
  • Home court advantage and crowd support
  • Familiarity with home venue and routines

Disadvantages

  • Potential for inconsistency in key moments

Bryant

Advantages

  • Nothing to lose as the visiting team
  • Road underdog motivation — play with less pressure

Disadvantages

  • Playing on the road without home crowd support
  • Struggling with a 8-19 (7-5) record this season