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West Virginia vs Mount St. Mary’s Betting Preview
The Ross Hodge era begins in Morgantown as West Virginia hosts Mount St. Mary’s on Tuesday night. After last year’s 9-23 finish, the Mountaineers aim to reestablish defensive identity and stability under their new coach.
Hodge arrives from North Texas, where he went 46-24 and emphasized efficient tempo and disciplined defense. He rebuilt West Virginia’s roster with eight transfers, including Honor Huff, who led the nation in 3-pointers made at Chattanooga. North Dakota’s Treysen Eaglestaff and St. Bonaventure’s Chance Moore join Huff as key scoring options.
Mount St. Mary’s, picked ninth in the MAAC, returns only one starter under second-year coach Donny Lind. Veteran guard Xavier Lipscomb anchors the backcourt alongside Trey Deveaux, a transfer from Western Illinois.
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Line Movement and Odds
West Virginia opened around -17.5, with the total near 129.5, according to the NCAA basketball odds board. Early public money is siding with the home team, while sharp bettors have shown interest in the under given both teams’ defensive potential.
For current spreads, totals, and moneyline shifts, track updates on the college basketball picks page
Matchup Breakdown
West Virginia Outlook: In preseason action, the Mountaineers hit 20 threes in a scrimmage against Maryland, then shifted gears to dominate the paint in an 80-54 exhibition win over Wheeling. Hodge praised the team’s ability to adapt, saying they can “create situations where teams have to pick how to defend us.”
Mount St. Mary’s Outlook: The visiting Mountaineers are rebuilding, with Lipscomb as the lone returning starter. Lind emphasized leadership and culture, but his team will need to protect the ball and handle West Virginia’s pressure defense.
The Mountaineers’ length and rebounding advantage should control tempo and scoring balance. Learn more about betting angles in the Expert Betting Guide
Injuries and Conditions
West Virginia Injury Report:
- Forward Jackson Fields (wrist) – expected to miss early season games.
See full details on the West Virginia team page
Mount St. Mary’s Injury Report:
- No injuries currently listed.
Check the Mount St. Mary’s team page
Indoor matchup, so weather is not a factor.
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Best Bets and Prediction
West Virginia’s new-look roster should handle this home opener comfortably. Expect Huff and Eaglestaff to stretch the floor while Hodge’s defense limits Mount St. Mary’s efficiency.
Best Bet: West Virginia -17.5
Lean: Under 129.5
Projected Score: West Virginia 82, Mount St. Mary’s 63
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