Delaware Fightin’ Blue Hens vs Iona Gaels Picks and Predictions December 1st 2025

Game Preview: Iona Gaels @ Delaware Fightin’ Blue Hens

Iona heads to Newark on Monday, December 1, 2025, looking to rebound from a narrow home loss when it visits Delaware at the Bob Carpenter Center. The Gaels appear on the Iona Gaels team page, while the Blue Hens are listed on the Delaware Fightin’ Blue Hens page. Iona enters at 5-2 with a 2-0 road record and opened as a -1.5 favorite, while Delaware enters at 2-4 but has won two of its last three at home. The total is set at 155.5 in what projects to be a fast-paced contest driven by tempo and perimeter shooting.

The Gaels’ pace-driven attack contrasts with Delaware’s more balanced but less explosive scoring profile. Early market movement has leaned toward Iona minus the small number, with bettors citing offensive efficiency and road form.

Odds and Key Information

Iona is -135 on the moneyline with a -1.5 spread, while Delaware returns +110 as a slight home underdog. The total of 155.5 reflects both teams’ willingness to shoot early in the clock, coupled with Iona’s 74.6 possessions per game.

Gaels coach Tobin Anderson emphasized improved finishing and rim pressure after the loss to Green Bay, noting the team created quality looks but struggled to convert late. Delaware’s staff highlighted ball movement and shot quality following their win over UNCG, stressing the need to limit defensive breakdowns against Iona’s spacing.

Iona Gaels Outlook

Iona’s profile is defined by pace, perimeter volume, and offensive versatility. Their 84.6 points per game combined with 10.4 threes per outing underscore a system predicated on constant movement and catch-and-shoot opportunities. Lamin Sabally’s 14-point, 10-rebound double-double against Green Bay showcased his inside-out utility, while CJ Anthony remains a primary scoring engine capable of generating 20-plus points against Power Conference defenses.

The Gaels operate well on the road, reflected by their 2-0 away record. They handle favorite roles effectively (3-1 straight up as favorites), and their 38 percent three-point success rate stretches opposing defenses. The key for Iona is controlling pace and maintaining spacing through early offense, which prevents Delaware from collapsing into help coverage.

Defensively, Iona must tighten transition rotations and defend without fouling. Delaware’s efficiency jumps considerably when they’re allowed to establish half-court rhythm. Iona tends to excel when forcing opponents into quicker possessions that play into their scoring tempo. For roster clarity, visit the Iona injury report.

Delaware Fightin’ Blue Hens Outlook

Delaware enters at 2-4 yet remains competitive at home, where their 2-1 mark includes strong offensive outings. Their latest win—73-60 over UNCG—showcased multi-level scoring and effective ball movement. Tyler Houser delivered 24 points and 10 rebounds, while Christian Bliss posted a 17-point, 11-assist double-double that highlighted his playmaking upside.

The Blue Hens average 9.2 made threes per game and shoot effectively in rhythm. Bliss and Macon Emory provide consistent scoring, with both averaging 14.3 points. Emory adds valuable interior presence at 8.3 rebounds per game. Delaware’s three-point shooting is a potential swing factor; if they stay above their season average, they can match Iona’s pace for stretches.

Defensively, Delaware must limit penetration and avoid over-helping against Iona’s shooters. Their success hinges on slowing Iona’s pace and forcing longer possessions that reduce perimeter volume. When Delaware protects the paint and wins defensive boards, their offense becomes markedly more efficient. The Delaware injury report provides updates on availability.

Key Matchup Table

Key Factor	Advantage
Overall Tempo	Iona Gaels
Three-Point Volume	Iona Gaels
Interior Scoring	Delaware Fightin’ Blue Hens
Home-Court Edge	Delaware Fightin’ Blue Hens
Late-Game Shot Creation	Iona Gaels

Betting Trends

Iona has leaned over in several games due to pace and shot volume. Their road performances tend to be efficient early, minimizing scoring droughts. Delaware has been stronger at home and typically elevates its shooting numbers in Newark.

Both teams shoot well enough to spike totals, but Delaware’s slower pace relative to Iona adds uncertainty to a high total of 155.5. For more detailed spread and total movements, see the NCAAB odds page.

The Lean

Model projections show Iona’s offense eventually separating, even if Delaware keeps the early stages competitive. Projected score: Iona 82, Delaware 70. This supports Iona -1.5, leveraging pace, three-point efficiency, and road performance.

The projected total of 152 falls short of the posted 155.5, suggesting under 155.5 as the stronger play. Delaware’s slower scoring pace and Iona’s occasional streakiness from deep could hold the game below the number.

For more Monday slate breakdowns, visit the NCAAB previews section.

Why You Need Expert Picks

Small spreads in pace-driven matchups require sharp evaluation of shooting regression, tempo variance, and lineup rotations. The Handicappers Leaderboard on the college basketball picks hub helps bettors identify high-performing analysts who specialize in total forecasting and tempo modeling.

Expert projections illuminate scoring distribution patterns and defensive efficiency indicators that raw stats don’t capture. For additional betting strategy across basketball markets, the expert betting guide provides structured insights to refine decision-making.

Projected Final Score: Iona Gaels 82, Delaware Fightin’ Blue Hens 70
Best Spread Pick: Iona -1.5
Total Lean: Under 155.5