UMBC Retrievers vs Albany Great Danes Picks and Predictions January 31st 2026

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UMBC Retrievers vs Albany Great Danes Betting Preview

The UMBC Retrievers head to Albany to face the Albany Great Danes in an America East Conference matchup at the Broadview Center. UMBC enters with a 12-8 record and looks to rebound after a loss to Vermont, while Albany aims to defend its 5-3 home mark after falling to NJIT. With the Retrievers favored by 1.5 points, this contest highlights a battle between UMBC’s balanced scoring and Albany’s home-court confidence.

Line Movement and Odds

UMBC is favored, but Albany’s home record makes this line worth monitoring. Current market:

  • UMBC Spread: -1.5 (-114)
  • Albany Spread: +1.5 (-107)
  • UMBC MoneyLine: -130
  • Albany MoneyLine: +105
  • Total: 140.5 (-110)

Check the college basketball odds hub for real-time updates, especially as bettors weigh UMBC’s shooting efficiency against Albany’s home-court advantage.

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Matchup Breakdown

UMBC Outlook

The Retrievers average 74.7 points per game, with Jah’Likai King, Caden Diggs, and DJ Armstrong Jr. leading the offense. Diggs’ 14 points vs Vermont highlighted his efficiency, while King’s 14.6 points per game showcase his consistency. UMBC’s efficiency (12-8 overall record; 46.8% FG shooting, 103rd nationally; 35.3% three-point shooting) underscores their strengths. Their ability to score efficiently and perform in conference play makes them dangerous even on the road.

Albany Outlook

The Great Danes average 70.9 points per game, with Amir Lindsey, Okechukwu Okeke, and Jonathan Beagle driving production. Lindsey’s 23 points vs NJIT highlighted his scoring, while Okeke’s consistency adds balance. Albany’s efficiency (7-15 overall record; 5-3 at home; 46.3% FG shooting, 131st nationally; 54.8% two-point shooting, 114th nationally) underscores their strengths. Their ability to shoot efficiently and defend at home makes them competitive despite their record.

Key Factors

This matchup may hinge on perimeter shooting and pace. UMBC thrives on King’s scoring and Diggs’ efficiency, while Albany must rely on Lindsey’s hot hand and Okeke’s consistency to tilt the game. Execution in the final minutes will likely decide the margin.

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Injuries / Availability

UMBC: The Retrievers report no fresh injury concerns heading into Saturday’s contest.

Albany: The Great Danes are expected to have their full rotation available.

Environment

The Broadview Center has been a reliable venue for Albany, where they’ve gone 5-3 this season. UMBC, however, has shown resilience with four road wins, making this a clash of Retrievers’ offensive efficiency versus Great Danes’ home grit.

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Best Bets and Prediction

Projected Final Score: UMBC 75, Albany 72

  • UMBC -1.5 → Best Bet. Their offensive pace and shooting efficiency suggest they can cover the spread.
  • Over 140.5 → Total play. Both teams’ scoring potential points toward a combined score above the line.

UMBC’s depth and perimeter shooting should carry them to victory, while Albany’s home-court energy keeps the spread competitive. Expect a contest that leans higher-scoring, with totals landing just over the posted number.

Handicappers and Service Plays

America East games often spotlight tempo mismatches and perimeter battles. Our Best Handicappers highlight analysts who specialize in mid-major conference trends, while the Leaderboard tracks who’s delivering consistent returns. For UMBC vs Albany, expert breakdowns in Buy Picks can help bettors decide whether the spread or total offers the sharper edge.

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