SharpBetz
NCAAB

NJIT Highlanders vs Bryant Bulldogs

Saturday, February 28, 2026

Matchup Analysis

This NCAAB matchup features NJIT Highlanders (15-14 (7-5)) traveling to take on Bryant Bulldogs (8-20 (7-5)) at Chace Athletic Center, Smithfield, RI. The NJIT hold a clear statistical edge this season, outperforming the Bryant by 3.2 points per game in scoring margin. That differential will be a key factor in this matchup. Bryant averages 64.3 points per game, but they face a NJIT defense that holds opponents to 73.7 PPG. The visitors' defensive prowess could limit the home team's scoring output. Meanwhile, NJIT scores 68.8 PPG but faces a Bryant defense that limits opponents to 72.5 PPG. The home team's defensive effort could be the difference-maker. Home court advantage is worth approximately 3.5 points in NCAAB, and Bryant will look to leverage their home crowd. Our model sees this as essentially a coin-flip game, projecting just a 2.4-point margin. Expect a tight finish. The 68% confidence interval ranges from Bryant winning by 15 to losing by 10. The market has this game at +2.5, but our model sees value on Bryant with a 4.9-point edge. Our line: Bryant -2.4. Combined with the total projection of 133 versus the market line of 139.5, there are opportunities to find value on both sides of this matchup.

Team Comparison

NJIT NJIT
Stat
BRY Bryant
15-14 (7-5)
Record
8-20 (7-5)
Last 10
68.8
PPG
64.3
73.7
Opp PPG
72.5

Current Odds

Team Moneyline Spread Total
NJIT NJIT Highlanders
-197 -2.5 O 139.5
BRY Bryant Bulldogs
+197 +2.5 U 139.5
Source: Draft Kings Updated: Feb 28, 5:04 AM
Opening line: +2.5 / O/U 139.5

Model Projection

Team Moneyline Spread Total
NJIT NJIT Highlanders
+123 +2.4 O 133.1
BRY Bryant Bulldogs
-123 -2.4 U 133.1
Source: Model Updated: Feb 28, 5:43 AM

Our Picks

Spread
Bryant (opened at +2.5)
55% Confidence

Play to -3.1

Total
Under (opened at 139.5)
62% Confidence

Play to 133.8

Recent Trends

Bryant has struggled this season at 8-20 (7-5). 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. NJIT sits at 15-14 (7-5) 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

Bryant

Advantages

  • Home court advantage and crowd support
  • Familiarity with home venue and routines

Disadvantages

  • Sub-.500 record at 8-20 (7-5) raises concerns
  • Limited offense averaging just 64.3 PPG

NJIT

Advantages

  • 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

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