American Tournament: Temple vs FAU Preview, Odds, Predictions (March 11)
- Temple lost seven of its last eight games in conference play.
- FAU is 3-7 in its last 10 matchups this season.
- This marks the sixth all-time matchup between the two American squads.
A “Battle of the Owls” will happen once again when the FAU Owls face the Temple Owls in the first round of the American Tournament on March 11. FAU stands out as the slight favorite, paving the way for an intriguing showdown that will see both squads compete for a place in the second round.
How to Watch
- When: Wednesday, March 11, 9 pm ET
- Where: Legacy Arena at BJCC, Birmingham, Alabama
- How to Watch: ESPN+
NCAA Matchup Odds & Lines
| Team | Odds | Spread | Totals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temple | -110 | +1.5 | O145 |
| FAU | -110 | -1.5 | U145 |
Game Preview
Temple (16-15, 8-10 American) struggled throughout the second half of conference play, losing seven of its last eight games. They rank first in the American Conference and fifth nationally in turnovers per game (9.0), third in the conference and 92nd nationally in free throw percentage (74.8), fourth in the conference and 57th nationally in free throws made per game (17.3), third in the conference and 100th nationally in scoring defense (71.0), fifth in the conference and 82nd nationally in three-point percentage defense (32.0). Derrian Ford was named to the American Conference Third Team and the All-Newcomer Team. On another note, Gavin Griffiths produced 10.4 points and 4.9 rebounds per contest.
FAU (17-14, 9-9 American) went 3-2 in its last five games, falling to Wichita State in the season finale. They missed a chance to get a bye past the first or second round, needing to play the entire tournament instead. Josiah Parker racked up the Freshman of the Year Award while Devin Vanterpool earned the Most Improved Player of the Year Award this season. Vanterpool (15.8 ppg) and Kanaan Carlyle (14.7 ppg) leading the offense, while Isaiah Elohim (12.2 ppg) and Parker (9.6 ppg) also provide scoring depth. Parker also contributes on the glass with six double-doubles this season.
Temple vs FAU Head-to-Head
The two programs have had five meetings in their history, and the result is 4-1 for FAU. The last matchup was in February this year when FAU won 77-73 at home.
Temple vs FAU Predictions
FAU patiently awaits the health status of Devin Vanterpool, who has missed several games due to a foot injury. Having him available would improve their production on both sides of the ball, significantly boosting their chances of winning. Temple hopes to get payback in the third matchup this season, with the conference tournament being their last chance to stay alive with their campaign. Our betting pick here is for FAU to defend a 1.5-point spread.
- Free NCAAB pick:Â FAU Owls -1.5
