We have your Pepperdine Waves vs. Saint Mary’s Gaels prop betting and game preview needs covered as the Pepperdine Waves hit the road to face the Saint Mary’s Gaels.
The Saint Mary’s Gaels (20-6) are set to host the Pepperdine Waves (10-16) in a West Coast Conference showdown. As the Gaels aim to extend their impressive 11-0 conference record, the Waves are looking to create an upset and build on their recent victory.
Pepperdine Waves vs. Saint Mary’s Gaels Odds Info
Moneyline: Pepperdine Waves +1600 (BetRivers) / Saint Mary’s Gaels -2247 (PointsBet)
Spread: -19.5 – Pepperdine Waves -110 (DraftKings) / Saint Mary’s Gaels -110 (DraftKings)
Total: 132.5 – -110 (Ceasars) / -110 (Ceasars)
Game Info
Date: Thursday, Feb. 15
Time: 11:00 PM
Location: University Credit Union Pavilion – Moraga, CA
TV: CBS Sports Network
Pepperdine Waves Betting Trends
- On the road, Pepperdine Waves are 2 and 6 this season.
- Against the spread this season, Pepperdine Waves are 10 and 14.
- Against the spread on the road, Pepperdine Waves are 3 and 7.
Saint Mary’s Gaels Betting Trends
- At home, Saint Mary’s Gaels are 11 and 3 this season.
- Against the spread this season, Saint Mary’s Gaels are 13 and 12.
- Against the spread at home, Saint Mary’s Gaels are 7 and 9.
Pepperdine Waves vs. Saint Mary’s Gaels Predictions
The Saint Mary’s Gaels enter this matchup on a high, boasting a 20-6 overall record and an unblemished 11-0 in conference play. They’ve been dominant on the boards, leading the nation in rebound margin and showcasing a stingy defense that allows the second-fewest points per game. With Aidan Mahaney leading the charge, averaging 14.0 points per game, and the significant improvements of Augustas Marciulionis and Joshua Jefferson, the Gaels have a well-rounded attack that could prove too much for the Waves.
Pepperdine, on the other hand, has struggled this season with a 10-16 record but showed signs of life with a recent win against Loyola Marymount. Michael Ajayi, the Waves’ standout player, is averaging a double-double with 17.2 points and 9.5 rebounds per game. His performance from beyond the arc and his potential as an NBA draft pick make him a player to watch in this matchup. The Waves will need Ajayi to be at his best if they hope to challenge the Gaels’ robust defense.
This game will likely come down to whether Pepperdine’s offense can penetrate Saint Mary’s formidable defense. The Gaels’ ability to control the game’s tempo and their experience in high-stakes games give them an edge. However, college basketball is no stranger to upsets, and Pepperdine’s hunger for a win could make this a closer game than the records suggest. Key matchups to watch include the battle of the boards and whether Pepperdine can contain Mahaney while also getting their own offense going against one of the nation’s top defenses.
Pepperdine Waves vs. Saint Mary’s Gaels Pick
The Saint Mary’s Gaels have demonstrated a level of consistency and dominance that is hard to ignore. With a perfect conference record and a strong home-court advantage, their -2247 moneyline reflects the high probability of them winning this matchup. The Gaels’ nation-leading rebound margin and their second-ranked defense in points allowed per game are key indicators of their ability to control the game and limit the Waves’ scoring opportunities. Additionally, the Gaels’ experience in tournament play and the significant improvements from players like Augustas Marciulionis and Joshua Jefferson this season add to the confidence in their ability to secure a win.
While the Pepperdine Waves have a potential NBA draft pick in Michael Ajayi, who has been impressive with his double-double average, the Gaels’ defense is likely to focus on neutralizing his impact. The Waves’ overall record and their performance on the road suggest they may struggle against a top-tier team like Saint Mary’s. Considering the Gaels’ strong performance against the spread at home and their current momentum, it’s reasonable to expect them to continue their winning ways, making the Saint Mary’s Gaels moneyline bet the more secure choice for this game.
The Pick: Saint Mary’s Gaels -2247. (PointsBet)
