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Seton Hall vs Saint Peter’s Week 1 Betting Preview
Two New Jersey programs with overhauled rosters meet Monday in Newark when Seton Hall hosts Saint Peter’s
The Pirates are coming off a program-record 25 losses last season. Saint Peter’s, one year removed from a MAAC title run, slipped to 12-16. Both coaches went heavy in the transfer portal, aiming for a reset.
Seton Hall brought in 11 newcomers, led by high-volume scorer Budd Clark from Merrimack and Elijah Fisher from Pacific. Freshman center Najai Hines, a top-100 recruit, adds size and athleticism.
Saint Peter’s coach Bashir Mason brought in seven new players, including former four-star recruit Akil Watson. Defense remains their identity after ranking 30th nationally in points allowed last season.
For bettors, this in-state matchup offers a first look at how both rebuilt squads mesh under live pressure. See all upcoming matchups on our college basketball previews
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Line Movement and Odds
Check the NCAA basketball odds board for updates before tipoff.
Seton Hall opened around a 14-point favorite, with the total sitting near 128.5. Early action has leaned slightly toward Saint Peter’s, nudging the spread down to 13.5 in some markets. Public bettors have backed the underdog, but sharper money appears to favor the home side.
The total has ticked upward toward 130, signaling that bettors expect more pace from Shaheen Holloway’s revamped offense.
Matchup Breakdown
Seton Hall’s offense has more weapons than a year ago, when it ranked near the bottom of the Big East in efficiency. Holloway’s group is longer, faster, and deeper, but cohesion will take time.
Saint Peter’s defense should be competitive again, though scoring remains a question. The Peacocks averaged just 66 points last season and must find reliable perimeter shooting to stay close.
Expect a contrast in styles — Seton Hall will push tempo while Saint Peter’s looks to slow it down. If the Pirates control pace and take care of the ball, they can cover comfortably. Bettors can explore more betting breakdowns in the college basketball picks section
Injuries and Conditions
Seton Hall
- No confirmed absences, though rotations are still fluid as Holloway tests combinations.
See the Seton Hall injury report
Saint Peter’s
- No injuries reported entering the opener.
Check the Saint Peter’s injury report for roster status.
Game will be played indoors at Prudential Center, so weather is not a factor.
Best Bets and Prediction
Recent betting trends show Seton Hall struggling ATS at home last season, but this year’s group looks stronger and more athletic. With better guard play and frontcourt depth, the Pirates should dictate tempo.
Projected score: Seton Hall 74, Saint Peter’s 62
Best Bet: Seton Hall -13.5
Secondary Lean: Over 129
For bettors building early-season models, visit the Bettors Handbook for strategy insights.
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