The Temple Owls are heading to Wichita to face the Wichita State Shockers in a crucial non-conference matchup, with both teams averaging over 72 points per game in their last five outings, Temple at 72.8 and Wichita State at 74.2. This game is particularly important for the Shockers, who are looking to build on their 16-10 record and strengthen their tournament resume, having gone 3-2 in their last five games, including a notable 81-77 win over Tulsa. The Owls, on the other hand, are seeking to rebound from a 76-80 loss to Charlotte and improve their 15-10 record, having gone 2-3 in their last five games. With both teams needing quality wins, this matchup promises to be intense, especially considering Wichita State's recent trend of outscoring opponents by 2.0 points per game over their last five.
As we delve into the individual performances, it's essential to examine the players who will be making a significant impact on the game.
Wichita State's Recent Scoring Surge
Key Matchups
The Shockers have been led by their strong offense, which has been averaging 74.2 points per game over their last five outings, with notable performances against Tulsa and Tulane. In contrast, the Owls have struggled defensively, allowing 74.6 points per game over their last five, which could be a significant concern against the high-scoring Shockers. Temple's recent form has been marked by inconsistency, with a 2-3 record in their last five games, including a close 79-78 win over South Florida. The Owls must find a way to contain the Shockers' offense, which has been clicking on all cylinders, scoring 75 points or more in three of their last five games. Wichita State's ability to score from multiple positions will be a challenge for the Owls, who have allowed opponents to shoot over 45% from the field in their last three games.
The CHD Scout prediction favors Wichita State by 7.5 points, with a 74.1% win probability, and this can be attributed to the Shockers' strong recent form and their ability to outscore opponents.
CHD Scout Prediction
Temple
69
Wichita State
77
This prediction is largely based on the Shockers' impressive offense, which has been averaging 74.2 points per game over their last five outings, as well as their strong performance at home, where they have gone 10-3 this season. The Owls, on the other hand, have struggled on the road, with a 4-6 record, and must find a way to contain the Shockers' offense if they hope to pull off the upset. Wichita State's defense has also been solid, allowing just 72.2 points per game over their last five, which could make it difficult for the Owls to keep pace. The Shockers' recent 75-61 win over Tulane is a reflection of their ability to dominate games on both ends of the floor.
As we approach the tournament season, both teams are aware of the importance of this game in terms of building their resumes.
Tournament Stakes
A win for Wichita State would be a significant boost to their tournament hopes, as it would give them a quality win over a conference opponent and improve their record to 17-10. For Temple, a win would be a much-needed quality victory, as they currently have just two wins against Quad 2 opponents. A loss for the Owls would drop them to 15-11 and make their tournament hopes even more uncertain. The Shockers, on the other hand, would still be in a relatively strong position with a loss, but it would certainly make their path to the tournament more challenging. The Owls' recent 81-73 win over East Carolina is a notable example of their ability to pull off upset victories, and they must draw on that experience if they hope to take down the Shockers.
In terms of recent trends, both teams have shown flashes of brilliance, but also struggles. The Shockers have gone 3-2 in their last five games, with a notable 81-77 win over Tulsa, while the Owls have gone 2-3, with a close 79-78 win over South Florida. The Shockers have been led by their strong offense, which has been averaging 74.2 points per game over their last five outings, while the Owls have struggled defensively, allowing 74.6 points per game over their last five. The Owls must find a way to contain the Shockers' offense, which has been clicking on all cylinders, scoring 75 points or more in three of their last five games. Wichita State's ability to score from multiple positions will be a challenge for the Owls, who have allowed opponents to shoot over 45% from the field in their last three games. The Shockers' recent 83-93 loss to Tulsa is a reminder that they are not invincible, and the Owls must capitalize on any mistakes they make. With the game being played at Charles Koch Arena, the Shockers will have the advantage of playing in front of their home crowd, which has been a significant factor in their 10-3 home record this season. The Owls, on the other hand, must draw on their experience of playing on the road, where they have gone 4-6 this season. As the game approaches, it's clear that both teams are ready to put everything on the line and fight for a crucial victory.