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Xavier Musketeers vs Le Moyne Dolphins Betting Preview
Xavier escaped a near-collapse in its opener and now hosts Le Moyne on Thursday night. The Musketeers blew a 20-point lead to Marist before closing out a 66-62 win. Le Moyne cruised past SUNY Cobleskill 94-50 and enters with confidence.
Line Movement and Odds
Xavier opened as a 22.5-point favorite. The total sits at 157.5. No major movement yet, but early lean favors Le Moyne against the spread. Full odds breakdown available on ScoresAndStats College Basketball Picks.
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Matchup Breakdown
Xavier Outlook
The Xavier Musketeers are still finding rhythm under Richard Pitino. They return just one player from last season and added 11 new faces. Malik Messina-Moore led with 16 points in the opener, while Jovan Milicevic and All Wright chipped in 14 each. Xavier struggled to close out Marist, allowing a 13-0 run late. They did convert 23 free throws, showing an ability to draw contact. Defensively, they allowed 62 points but gave up momentum late. Expect a more focused effort after Monday’s scare.
Le Moyne Outlook
Le Moyne enters its third Division I season with momentum. Deng Garang scored 16 in the opener, and Tennessee Rainwater added 13 on efficient shooting. The Dolphins shot 53.4% from the field and dominated with 16 steals. Their 94-point output came against a weak opponent, but the offensive execution was sharp. Freshmen guards Eli Greenberg and Josiah Lee added depth off the bench. Le Moyne’s tempo and ball control (10 turnovers) could help them stay competitive against a rebuilding Xavier squad.
Key Matchup / Path to Victory
Xavier needs to tighten its defense and avoid second-half lapses. Malik Messina-Moore and Jovan Milicevic must control tempo and limit turnovers. Le Moyne’s scoring depth and ball movement are strengths, especially if Deng Garang and Tennessee Rainwater get going early. If the Dolphins can push pace and stay efficient from the field, they have a path to cover the spread.
Injury Report
No major injuries reported for either team. Xavier’s rotation is still settling, but all key contributors are expected to play.
Environment
Game is at the Cintas Center in Cincinnati. Xavier has a strong home-court edge and plays at a slower pace. Le Moyne travels from New York, but fatigue shouldn’t be a factor this early in the season.
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Best Bets
- Le Moyne +22.5
- Under 157.5
Xavier’s offense is still gelling and scored only 66 in the opener. Le Moyne’s tempo and scoring depth give them a shot to cover. The total leans under due to Xavier’s pace and defensive focus.
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