Iona Gaels vs Siena Saints Betting Preview
The Iona Gaels visit the Siena Saints in a Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference matchup at MVP Arena in Albany. Iona enters with a 14-9 record and looks to rebound after a narrow loss to Fairfield, while Siena aims to defend its 16-7 overall mark after a win over Canisius. With the Saints favored by 7.5 points, this contest highlights a battle between Iona’s perimeter shooting and Siena’s home dominance.
Line Movement and Odds
Siena is favored, but Iona’s offensive firepower makes this line worth tracking. Current market:
- Iona Spread: +7.5 (-113)
- Siena Spread: -7.5 (-110)
- Iona MoneyLine: +285
- Siena MoneyLine: -387
- Total: 140.5 (-110)
Check the college basketball picks for real-time updates, especially as bettors weigh Siena’s home dominance against Iona’s ability to cover spreads.
Matchup Breakdown
Iona Outlook
The Gaels average 73.5 points per game, with CJ Anthony, Daniss Jenkins, and Osborn Shema leading the offense. Anthony’s 20 points vs Fairfield highlighted his consistency, while Jenkins’ perimeter shooting adds balance. Iona’s efficiency (14-9 overall record; 9.4 made threes per game, 89th nationally; 35.5% three-point shooting) underscores their strengths. Their ability to score efficiently from the perimeter makes them dangerous underdogs.
Siena Outlook
The Saints average 71.5 points per game, with Justice Shoats, Francis Folefac, and Michael Eley driving production. Shoats’ 22 points vs Canisius highlighted his scoring, while Folefac’s rebounding adds balance. Siena’s efficiency (16-7 overall record; 7-3 at home; 46.7% FG shooting, 107th nationally; 16-4 record as favorites) underscores their strengths. Their ability to score efficiently and defend at home makes them tough to beat in Albany.
Key Factors
This matchup may hinge on tempo and perimeter shooting. Iona thrives on Anthony’s scoring and Jenkins’ perimeter accuracy, while Siena must rely on Shoats’ hot hand and Folefac’s rebounding to tilt the game. Execution in the final minutes will likely decide whether Iona can cover the spread.
Injuries / Availability
Iona: The Gaels report no fresh injury concerns heading into Thursday’s contest.
Siena: The Saints are expected to have their full rotation available.
Environment
MVP Arena has been a steady venue for Siena, where they’ve gone 7-3 this season. Iona, however, has shown resilience in close games, making this a clash of Saints’ home dominance versus Gaels’ perimeter firepower.
Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Final Score: Siena 74, Iona 70
- Iona +7.5 → Best Bet. Their perimeter shooting and ATS trends suggest they can keep the game closer than expected.
- Over 140.5 → Total play. Both teams’ scoring potential points toward a combined score above the line.
Siena’s depth and efficient shooting should carry them to victory, while Iona’s perimeter accuracy keeps the spread competitive. Expect a contest that leans higher-scoring, with totals landing just over the posted number.
Handicappers and Service Plays
MAAC games often spotlight tempo mismatches and perimeter battles. Our Best Handicappers highlight analysts who specialize in conference efficiency trends, while the Leaderboard tracks who’s delivering consistent returns. For Iona vs Siena, expert breakdowns and premium insights are available at Buy Picks, helping bettors decide whether the spread or total offers the sharper edge.


