Free Pick from Vegas Vic

2/27/2009

Siena hasn’t played since beating Northern Iowa 81-75 (led 40-19 at the half) last Saturday in a Bracket Buster game but the pointspread (Saints are two-point dogs) tells us that Siena is in for a tough game tonight. Niagara was very impressive in beating Illinois St 70-56 last Friday night in its Bracket Buster game, the Purple Eagles’ EIGHTH win in their last nine games (7-2 ATS), since losing 82-65 at Siena. By the way, Niagara’s lone loss in that stretch (like Siena) is to Rider (90-87). Lewis (16.5-4.6), who was the MAAC’s tourney MVP back in 2007 when Niagara beat Siena for the title, is the team’s leading scorer this year. He’s been joined by two Big East transfers this year, Villanova’s swingman Benn (13.9-9.0-3.0) and former U Conn guard Garrison (10.2). Nelson (7.6-4.6-5.3) returns at PG, as Niagara typically goes with a four-guard lineup (calling Benn a guard). That leaves some pressure on the 6-10 Egemonye (12.3-6.9) and he’s played well, helped out by the 6-6 Williamson (8,1-2.8) at times. Siena’s locked in the No. 1 seed and the conference tourney will be played in Siena’s hometown of Albany (not home arena). As for Niagara, after losing twice to the Saints last year (allowed 94 points each time) and by a score of 82-65 this year, tonight’s home game holds great significance. For that reason, I’m taking a shot with the Purple Eagles, who have the talent to match up with the Saints.

Take Niagara.

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