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Mountain Hawks vs Bison

Bison Look to Defend Home Court

Lehigh

Lehigh vs Bucknell

February 17th 2025 | 7:00 PM EST | Sojka Pavilion

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Bucknell

Bucknell’s balance gives them the edge in a tight matchup

Grade B+: Bucknell Moneyline (-260)

Bucknell’s methodical offence and disciplined defensive rotations make them a tough opponent for Lehigh, a team that has struggled to find consistency on the road. The Bison—often known for their strong half-court execution—will look to control the pace, limiting the Mountain Hawks’ transition game while capitalizing on second-chance opportunities. With Bucknell listed at -260 on the moneyline, they are the best bet to secure a victory, given their superior rebounding, ball control, and home-court advantage. This selection earns a B+ rating for confidence, with a $65 potential return for bettors backing the Bison.

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Lehigh’s fight may keep this game tighter than expected

Grade B+: Lehigh Spread +6 (-105)

Lehigh’s ability to push the pace and generate points in transition could make them a tougher opponent than the spread suggests, especially with Bucknell’s inconsistent half-court scoring in recent games. The Mountain Hawks—sometimes called The Brown and White—have a tendency to hang around in games, even against stronger Patriot League foes, thanks to their aggressive rebounding and perimeter shooting. With the spread set at +6 for Lehigh (-105), the best bet is to take the points, as their ability to create second-chance opportunities should keep this competitive. This pick earns a B+ rating, with a $75 potential return for those backing a close battle.

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Defensive pressure could slow the scoring pace

Grade B+: Under 139 Total Points

Bucknell’s disciplined defensive approach and methodical offensive sets often result in low-scoring matchups, a trend that could continue against a Lehigh team that has struggled with efficiency in half-court sets. The Bison—sometimes called The Orange and Blue—are not a team that pushes the pace, preferring to control the game with ball movement and interior play. Meanwhile, the Mountain Hawks have been inconsistent from beyond the arc, limiting their ability to rack up points quickly. With the Over/Under set at 139, the best play is the Under, as both teams tend to slow the tempo and grind out possessions. This pick earns a B+ rating, with a $75 potential return for bettors expecting a defensive battle.

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