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The Marist Red Foxes head to Draddy Gymnasium in Riverdale tonight for a 7:00 PM ET tip-off against the Manhattan Jaspers in a contest with significant MAAC implications. Marist arrives as the favorite with a -4.5 spread and a 16-10 record, though they are currently mired in a three-game losing streak that has stalled their momentum. Manhattan, sitting at 12-16, is trending in the opposite direction, having won three straight games to move toward the middle of the conference pack. This matchup on ESPN+ features a contrast between Marist’s elite defensive metrics and a Manhattan squad that has finally found its offensive rhythm during this February homestand.
When these two programs met back in December, Marist controlled the pace and walked away with an 80-68 victory in Poughkeepsie. However, Draddy Gymnasium has been a much friendlier environment for the Jaspers, who hold a solid 7-5 record on their own court. With a total set at 140.5, the betting market is bracing for a clash between Manhattan’s desire to run and a Red Foxes defense that ranks in the top five nationally for points allowed. For the Red Foxes, this is a must-win to stay in the hunt for a top conference seed, while Manhattan looks to prove they are the most dangerous lower-tier team in the MAAC.
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Marist Red Foxes vs Manhattan Jaspers Odds
These are the current betting lines for Friday’s MAAC showdown. Bettors should note that Marist has seen some slight moneyline pressure recently, so monitoring the latest college basketball odds is advised before the 7:00 PM tip.
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
| Marist | -236 | -4.5 (-118) | O 140.5 (-112) |
| Manhattan | +187 | +4.5 (-106) | U 140.5 (-108) |
Marist Red Foxes Betting Form
Marist’s season has been anchored by a defense that gives up just 63.5 points per game, but their recent skid has highlighted some offensive stagnation. They shot just 34.4% from the field in their last outing against Siena, a 67-63 loss where they failed to close out a late lead. Justin Menard continues to be the primary catalyst, leading the team with 17 points and six assists in that effort. When Menard is distributing effectively, the Red Foxes average 15.2 assists per game, showing they are at their best when the ball is moving. You can track their season-long performance on the Marist Red Foxes stats and results page.
A major advantage for Marist in a close road game is their elite free-throw shooting. Ranking 27th in the country at 79.6%, the Red Foxes are built to protect leads late in the second half. Jason Schofield provides the necessary muscle in the paint, having recently put up 13 points and seven boards. However, the roster depth is being tested right now; according to the Marist Red Foxes injury report, guard Elijah Lewis is out for the season with a knee injury, and Tarik Watson remains sidelined. This leaves a heavy burden on the starters to maintain their defensive intensity for a full 40 minutes.
Manhattan Jaspers Betting Form
Manhattan is arguably playing its best basketball of the season right now. They recently secured a 69-65 win over Canisius, marking their third consecutive victory. Jaden Winston has been the standout during this stretch, recently posting 18 points while shooting over 54% from the floor. Winston’s ability to score at all three levels has revitalized a Jaspers offense that averages 75.3 points per game. For a look at how they’ve performed as home underdogs lately, the Manhattan Jaspers schedule and stats show a team that is much more comfortable in the Bronx than on the road.
The Jaspers match Marist’s proficiency at the charity stripe, ranking 28th nationally with a 79.3% free-throw percentage. This makes them a difficult team to put away if the game stays within a possession. Terrance Jones and Devin Dinkins have provided balanced scoring, and their collective defensive effort has improved, allowing only 68 points in their last home contest. Before placing any action on the home dog, bettors should verify the Manhattan Jaspers injury report for any late-breaking changes to a rotation that has finally found some chemistry.
Marist Red Foxes vs Manhattan Jaspers Matchup Breakdown
This game is a battle of pace and perimeter defense. Marist plays a methodical style, averaging only 63.9 possessions per game, while Manhattan is slightly more aggressive at 66.4. The Red Foxes lead the MAAC in three-point defense, allowing opponents to shoot only 27.6% from beyond the arc. If they can replicate that defensive success tonight, it will force Winston and Jones into difficult midrange attempts. Conversely, Manhattan’s defense has struggled this year, allowing 79.5 points per game, but they have shown flashes of competence during this three-game winning streak.
The turnover battle will be vital. Marist forces 13 turnovers per game, which often leads to easy transition buckets that their half-court offense desperately needs. Manhattan has been better at protecting the rock lately, giving it up just under 10 times a game in their last few outings. If the Jaspers can keep their turnover count low and leverage their home-court edge, they could easily pull the straight-up upset. For more context on how these conference rivalries play out in late February, checking a college basketball betting guide can help explain why home underdogs often provide value in the MAAC.
Marist Red Foxes vs Manhattan Jaspers Predictions and Best Bets
Marist is the more disciplined team, but their recent three-game losing streak suggests they are vulnerable, especially on the road where they are 6-7. Manhattan is playing with house money right now and possesses a significant offensive ceiling compared to the Red Foxes. While the computer models might lean toward a slim Marist win, I think Manhattan’s momentum at Draddy Gymnasium is too strong to ignore. Getting 4.5 points with a home team that shoots nearly 80% from the free-throw line is a high-value proposition in a game likely decided by two or three possessions.
As for the total, the Under 140.5 is the smarter play. Marist’s defense is simply too good to allow Manhattan to run wild, and the Red Foxes’ own offensive struggles suggest they will try to turn this into a half-court grind. Marist has gone under the total in most of their recent games against defensive-minded opponents. I’m projecting a final score in the range of 71-68, meaning Manhattan covers while the total stays just under the number. Perhaps Marist snaps their skid, but they won’t do it comfortably.
Best Bet: Manhattan +4.5 (-106).
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NCAAB Picks and Handicappers on ScoresAndStats
The MAAC is often a volatile conference, making expert insight a valuable tool for any bettor’s arsenal. You can see how the pros are playing tonight’s slate by checking out today’s college basketball picks. Our platform provides a transparent handicapper leaderboard where you can follow specialists who have a history of success in mid-major basketball.
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