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Seton Hall Pirates vs Central Connecticut State Blue Devils Betting Preview
The Seton Hall Pirates host the Central Connecticut State Blue Devils at Walsh Gymnasium in Wednesday NCAA action. Seton Hall looks to extend its strong start after a successful Maui Invitational, while Central Connecticut State aims to continue its surprising run with wins over Rutgers and Boston College. Bettors must weigh Seton Hall’s defensive identity against the Blue Devils’ efficient offense.
Line Movement and Odds
- Seton Hall Pirates Spread: -16.5 (-110)
- Central Connecticut State Blue Devils Spread: +16.5 (-112)
- Total: 132.5 (Over -110, Under -110)
Seton Hall opened as heavy favorites at home. See full NCAA Basketball odds for market movement.
Matchup Breakdown
Central Connecticut State Blue Devils Outlook
Central Connecticut State dominated Johnson & Wales (RI) 122-57 behind Darin Smith Jr.’s 24 points. Smith leads the NEC with 20.7 points per game, while Max Frazier and Jay Rodgers add double-digit scoring. The Blue Devils average 85.7 points per game, shooting 49.9% from the field and 39.3% from three. Their ball movement (18.3 assists per game) ranks 37th nationally. Despite being underdogs, their offensive efficiency makes them dangerous.
Seton Hall Pirates Outlook
Seton Hall beat Washington State 75-61 in their last outing, led by AJ Staton-McCray’s 20 points. Staton-McCray averages 13.9 points per game, while Mike Williams adds scoring depth. The Pirates rank third nationally in blocked shots (59), with freshman Najai Hines leading the Big East in blocks. Seton Hall averages 75.8 points per game, shoots 46.5% from the field, and 76.1% from the free-throw line. Their 7-1 record includes a dominant 6-1 mark at home.
Key Matchup / Path to Victory
Blue Devils’ offensive efficiency vs Pirates’ defensive identity. Central Connecticut must rely on Smith Jr. and Frazier to sustain scoring, while Seton Hall needs Staton-McCray and Hines to control both ends of the floor. Defensive intensity and rebounding will be decisive.
Injuries / Availability
Central Connecticut State reports no major injury concerns, with Smith Jr. leading the offense.
Seton Hall lists its roster healthy, with Staton-McCray and Williams driving the attack.
Betting Trends
- Central Connecticut State has won three straight games.
- Blue Devils average 85.7 points per game and shoot 39.3% from three.
- Seton Hall is 7-1 straight up this season.
- Seton Hall is undefeated as favorites (6-0).
Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Final Score: Seton Hall 78, Central Connecticut State 72
- Central Connecticut State +16.5 (-112) → Best Bet. Blue Devils’ scoring efficiency suggests they can keep the game closer than the spread.
- Over 132.5 (-110) → Total. Our model projects 150 points, leaning over given both teams’ offensive profiles.
Seton Hall’s defense should secure the win, but Central Connecticut’s offensive balance makes them a strong play to cover. Expect a competitive, high-scoring contest trending over the total.
Handicappers and Service Plays
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