The Bulldogs host Air Force at home
WHO: Air Force ( 8-10, 1-5 in the MW) Vs Fresno State (8-11, 1-5 in the MW)
WHEN: Saturday, January 27th, 4:30 PM PT
WHERE: Save Mart Center, Fresno, CA
TV: Mountain West Network
STREAM: FuboTV — Get a free trial
Line: The Bulldogs are favored by – 4.5
Both teams enter this matchup with identical records, both situated at the bottom of the Mountain West standings. The Air Falcons recently broke an eight-game losing streak with a road victory over the UNLV Rebels. On the other side, the Fresno State Bulldogs are coming off a close loss to Boise State (72-68). The previous two games at the Save Mart Center were decided by four points, suggesting another closely contested battle tonight.
Keys to the Game:
Second Chance Opportunities:
In what is expected to be a slow-paced, physical, and scrappy game between two inconsistent teams, the battle for rebounds becomes crucial. The teams’ occasional struggles in rebounding make second-chance opportunities a key factor for victory. The performances of Junior Enoch Boakye and Senior Eduardo Andre will likely play a significant role for the Bulldogs. Keep an eye on Senior Leo Colimerio, a wing with great size, who could make an impact, especially against smaller lineups.
Get that OUTTA here❌
📺FS1 pic.twitter.com/NAtbKm93uh— Fresno State Men’s Basketball (@FresnoStateMBB) January 24, 2024
Guard Play:
The success of the Bulldogs heavily relies on the performance of their three Senior guards – Isaiah Hill, Isaiah Pope, and Donavan Yap Jr. The offense operates at a different level when these guards are aggressive and actively looking to score. The pivotal factor will be the version of Isaiah Hill that shows up today – whether he’s the guard capable of driving to the rim and creating his own shot, as seen against San Jose State, or the play-making guard looking to set up teammates. Donavan Yap Jr. has been a consistent scorer, especially in late-game situations, and if he gets going early, it could give the Bulldogs an early advantage. Additionally, Pope’s contributions in creating plays and crashing the glass have been crucial, scoring nine or more points in each of the last five games as well.
TIED IT UP🪢🪢🪢
📺FS1 pic.twitter.com/HXiOL7qTdQ— Fresno State Men’s Basketball (@FresnoStateMBB) January 24, 2024
Predictions:
Both teams, with eight wins, have had their struggles this season. Air Force comes off a notable win, while the Bulldogs are recovering from a hard-fought loss. The Bulldogs have played solid basketball at home recently, a trend expected to continue tonight. The Bulldogs’ guards, with their dynamic play, are predicted to be the difference-makers in this closely contested game.
Final Prediction:
Air Force 63 – 72 Fresno Stat