Massachusetts-Lowell River Hawks vs NJIT Highlanders Betting Preview
The Massachusetts-Lowell River Hawks visit the NJIT Highlanders in an America East Conference matchup at the Joel & Diane Bloom Wellness and Events Center in Newark. Massachusetts-Lowell enters with a 9-14 record and looks to build on a win over Maine, while NJIT aims to defend its 11-12 overall mark after a victory against Vermont. With the Highlanders favored by 1.5 points, this contest highlights a battle between River Hawks’ scoring depth and Highlanders’ home resilience.
Line Movement and Odds
NJIT is favored, but Massachusetts-Lowell’s offensive pace makes this line worth tracking. Current market:
- Massachusetts-Lowell Spread: +1.5 (-115)
- NJIT Spread: -1.5 (-105)
- Total: 148.5 (-110)
Check the college basketball picks for real-time updates, especially as bettors weigh NJIT’s home dominance against Massachusetts-Lowell’s ability to cover spreads.
Matchup Breakdown
Massachusetts-Lowell Outlook
The River Hawks average 75.1 points per game, with Angel Montas Jr., Darrel Yepdo, and Austin Green leading the offense. Montas’ 30 points and 8 rebounds vs Maine highlighted his dominance, while Yepdo’s playmaking adds balance. Massachusetts-Lowell’s efficiency (46.7% FG shooting, 107th nationally; 37.3 rebounds per game, 117th nationally) underscores their strengths. Their ability to score efficiently and rebound makes them dangerous underdogs.
NJIT Outlook
The Highlanders average 68.3 points per game, with Sebastian Robinson, David Bolden, and Miles Coleman driving production. Robinson’s 22 points vs Vermont highlighted his scoring, while Bolden’s all-around play adds balance. NJIT’s efficiency (11-12 overall record; 5-3 at home; resilience in close games) underscores their strengths. Their ability to defend and capitalize on home-court advantage makes them tough to beat in Newark.
Key Factors
This matchup may hinge on tempo and rebounding. Massachusetts-Lowell thrives on Montas’ scoring and Green’s rebounding, while NJIT must rely on Robinson’s hot hand and Bolden’s consistency to tilt the game. Execution in the final minutes will likely decide whether Massachusetts-Lowell can cover the spread.
Injuries / Availability
Massachusetts-Lowell: The River Hawks report no fresh injury concerns heading into Thursday’s contest.
NJIT: The Highlanders are expected to have their full rotation available.
Environment
The Joel & Diane Bloom Wellness and Events Center has been a steady venue for NJIT, where they’ve gone 5-3 this season. Massachusetts-Lowell, however, has shown resilience with recent wins, making this a clash of Highlanders’ home dominance versus River Hawks’ offensive grit.
Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Final Score: Massachusetts-Lowell 74, NJIT 70
- Massachusetts-Lowell +1.5 → Best Bet. Their scoring balance and rebounding suggest they can keep the game closer than expected.
- Under 148.5 → Total play. Both teams’ scoring averages point toward a combined score below the line.
Massachusetts-Lowell’s depth and efficient shooting should carry them to victory, while NJIT’s home-court advantage keeps the spread competitive. Expect a contest that leans lower-scoring, with totals landing just under the posted number.
Handicappers and Service Plays
America East games often spotlight tempo mismatches and rebounding battles. Our Best Handicappers highlight analysts who specialize in conference efficiency trends, while the Leaderboard tracks who’s delivering consistent returns. For Massachusetts-Lowell vs NJIT, premium insights are also available at Buy Picks, helping bettors decide whether the spread or total offers the sharper edge.


