The Baylor Bears, currently sitting at 13-13 overall and 3-10 in conference play, are hosting the Arizona State Sun Devils, who boast a 14-12 overall record and 5-8 in conference, in a crucial non-conference matchup that could have real consequences for both teams' NCAA Tournament hopes. Over their last five games, Baylor has averaged 78.8 points per game, while allowing 82 points per game, resulting in a -3.2 point differential, which is a stark contrast to their 86-67 win over Colorado in their most recent outing. Arizona State, on the other hand, has averaged 74.4 points per game over their last five, while allowing 74.2 points per game, resulting in a +0.2 point differential, with their most recent loss being a 74-87 defeat at the hands of Arizona.
As we delve into the individual player performances, it's essential to consider the matchups and recent trends.
Baylor's Recent Scoring Trends
Key Matchups
Baylor's recent struggles can be attributed to their inability to contain opponents' scoring, with their last five games seeing them allow an average of 82 points per game. Arizona State's offense, which has been averaging 74.4 points per game over their last five, want to capitalize on this weakness. Meanwhile, Arizona State's defense has been relatively solid, allowing just 74.2 points per game over their last five, and they will aim to stifle Baylor's offense, which has been inconsistent, scoring 74, 71, 94, 69, and 86 points in their last five games, respectively. Baylor's recent 86-67 win over Colorado is a notable exception, but it's essential to consider the broader trend, which sees them scoring an average of 78.8 points per game over their last five.
The CHD Scout prediction has Baylor winning by 3.2 points, with a 60.9% win probability, which may seem surprising given their recent form.
CHD Scout Prediction
Arizona State
77
Baylor
81
However, this prediction can be attributed to Baylor's ability to score, as evidenced by their 78.8 points per game average over their last five, as well as their recent win over Colorado, which saw them score 86 points. Additionally, Arizona State's defense, while solid, has shown vulnerability in their last five games, allowing an average of 74.2 points per game. If Baylor can capitalize on this and contain Arizona State's offense, they may be able to secure a much-needed win.
With both teams sitting on the NCAA Tournament bubble, the implications of this game are substantial.
Tournament Stakes
A win for Baylor would not only bolster their resume but also provide a crucial Quad 1 victory, which could be the difference-maker in their tournament hopes. Conversely, a loss would further diminish their already slim chances. For Arizona State, a win would be a significant boost to their resume, particularly given that this game is classified as a Quad 1 opportunity. A loss, however, would not be devastating, considering their recent form and the fact that they have already secured several notable wins. It's essential to consider the context of each team's schedule and the strength of their opponents when evaluating their tournament chances.
As we examine the trends and recent form of both teams, it's clear that this game will be a closely contested affair. Baylor's ability to score, combined with Arizona State's defensive solidity, will make for an intriguing matchup. Over their last five games, Baylor has been outscored by an average of 3.2 points per game, while Arizona State has outscored their opponents by an average of 0.2 points per game. The difference in scoring averages is notable, with Baylor averaging 78.8 points per game and Arizona State averaging 74.4 points per game. If Baylor can contain Arizona State's offense and capitalize on their own scoring opportunities, they may be able to secure a vital win. However, if Arizona State's defense can stifle Baylor's offense, they may be able to pull off a crucial road victory. With both teams averaging over 70 points per game in their last five outings, this game has the potential to be a high-scoring affair, with the team that can best contain their opponent's offense likely emerging victorious.
In their last five games, Baylor has scored 74, 71, 94, 69, and 86 points, respectively, while Arizona State has scored 72, 85, 70, 71, and 74 points. This inconsistency in scoring is a concern for both teams, and the ability to find consistency matters in determining the outcome of this game. Baylor's 94-point outburst against BYU is a notable exception, but it's essential to consider the broader trend, which sees them scoring an average of 78.8 points per game over their last five. Arizona State's 85-point performance against Oklahoma State is also a notable achievement, but their recent loss to Arizona, in which they scored just 74 points, is a cause for concern. If both teams can find consistency in their scoring, this game has the potential to be a thrilling, back-and-forth affair.
HEADLINE: Baylor Bears Host Arizona State Sun Devils in Crucial Non-Conference Matchup SUBHEADLINE: Baylor seeks to build on their recent 86-67 win over Colorado, while Arizona State looks to bounce back from a 74-87 loss to Arizona, with both teams averaging over 74 points per game in their last five outings.