NFL Previews 
MLB Previews 
NBA Previews 
NHL Previews 
Soccer Previews 
The Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) season continues tonight as the Manhattan Jaspers (10-16, 6-9 MAAC) travel to the Gallagher Center to take on the Niagara Purple Eagles (6-18, 3-11 MAAC). This is a vital matchup for conference seeding as the regular season enters its final stretch. Manhattan took the first meeting between these two programs back on January 11, securing a 79-70 victory in the Bronx.
UP TO $250 BONUS BET
The Best Live In-Game Betting
21+ Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Niagara enters as a slim 1.5-point home favorite, looking to capitalize on home-court advantage and bounce back from a heartbreaking one-point loss to Quinnipiac. Meanwhile, Manhattan is riding the momentum of an 80-68 win over Sacred Heart and aims to sweep the season series.
Manhattan vs Niagara Odds
The narrow spread indicates oddsmakers expect a tightly contested battle. You can follow real-time line movements on the latest college basketball odds page.
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
| Manhattan | +116 | +1.5 (-103) | O 137.5 (-111) |
| Niagara | -147 | -1.5 (-125) | U 137.5 (-111) |
Manhattan Betting Form
Under Coach John Gallagher, the Jaspers have found a high-scoring rhythm, averaging 75.5 points per game. Their primary weapon is junior guard Jaden Winston (15.6 PPG, 3.8 APG), who recently dismantled Sacred Heart with a 21-point performance. Supporting him is Fraser Roxburgh (11.4 PPG), who provides a reliable secondary scoring option and interior presence.
A major advantage for the Jaspers is their discipline at the charity stripe. Manhattan ranks 25th nationally in free-throw percentage at 80.1%. In a game with a spread as thin as 1.5 points, the ability to convert late-game free throws is often the difference between a cover and a loss. For deeper trends, visit the Manhattan stats and results page. Be sure to check the Manhattan injury report for any late changes to the rotation.
Niagara Betting Form
Greg Paulus has the Purple Eagles playing a deliberate, defensive style of basketball. Niagara ranks 122nd nationally in points allowed (71.5), but they have struggled significantly on the offensive end, averaging just 62.8 points per game (360th in the nation). Justin Page (12.1 PPG) is the focal point of the offense, while Will Shortt is coming off a massive double-double (14 points, 11 rebounds) against Quinnipiac.
While Niagara’s record is disappointing, they have been competitive at home (4-5) and are 4-1 against the spread in their last five games. They thrive when they can slow the game down and force opponents into a half-court grind. You can view their full ATS history on the Niagara schedule and stats page. Confirm the Niagara injury report before placing your wagers, as depth is a concern for their low-possession style.
Manhattan vs Niagara Matchup Breakdown
This game presents a classic clash of styles: Manhattan’s high-octane offense versus Niagara’s slow-paced defense.
- Tempo Battle: Manhattan averages 13 more points per game than Niagara. If the Jaspers can force a transition game, Niagara will likely struggle to keep pace.
- Efficiency vs. Volume: Niagara shots a respectable 43.4% from the field but lacks the volume of shots Manhattan generates.
- Free Throw Factor: If the game comes down to the final minute, Manhattan’s 80.1% FT shooting gives them a significant tactical edge over Niagara’s 70.7%.
For more insights into MAAC betting trends, our college basketball betting guide offers a breakdown of how home-court advantage impacts mid-major spreads.
Manhattan vs Niagara Predictions and Best Bets
The model projects a Manhattan victory, 74-70. Despite being the road underdog, the Jaspers have the offensive firepower to overwhelm a Niagara team that often experiences long scoring droughts. Manhattan’s success in the first meeting (winning by 9) suggests they match up well with Niagara’s defensive schemes.
While the total is set at 137.5, the contrast in styles makes this a tricky play. However, given Niagara’s tendency to bleed the clock (61.4 possessions per game), the Under is the more disciplined choice despite Manhattan’s scoring average.
Best Bet: Manhattan +1.5 (-103).
Power Your Bets with NCAA Basketball Data
Confidence for every bet
NCAAB Picks and Handicappers on ScoresAndStats
Looking for more than just the MAAC? Check out today’s college basketball picks for analysis on the entire Friday slate. You can also follow our top sports handicappers and track their performance on the handicapper leaderboard. If you want a winning edge tonight, you can buy expert picks directly from our most profitable analysts.
