In this highly anticipated college basketball matchup, the New Mexico State Aggies will face off against the Louisville Cardinals on November 26, 2023. Both teams are looking to secure a crucial victory to improve their respective standings. The Aggies, currently seventh in Conference USA with a 3-4 record, aim to build on their recent performances, while the Cardinals, placed last in the Atlantic Coast, hope to bounce back with a win after a 2-3 start. The Aggies are on a two-game losing streak after an 81-54 home loss against the Southern Illinois Salukis while the Cardinals are also on a two-game losing streak after a 74-66 home loss against the Indiana Hoosiers. This game promises to be a battle of resilience and determination. Make sure to read our New Mexico State vs Louisville Prediction.

Seeking a Better Rounded Scoring Power

The New Mexico State Aggies are heading into this matchup with a record of 3-4, currently sitting in the seventh position in the Conference USA. They’ve had their share of ups and downs in the early part of the season, but there are some promising aspects to their game. Offensively, the Aggies are averaging 69.7 points per game. While this might not seem remarkable, it’s essential to consider that they have faced some tough opponents, which has impacted their scoring average.

However, the Aggies must address their field goal percentage, currently at 39.8. Forward Robert Carpenter has been the standout player for New Mexico State, contributing an impressive 12.6 points and 4.7 rebounds per game. His performance has been crucial, but he needs more support from his teammates. Defensively, the Aggies have allowed an average of 71.7 points per game. Improving their defensive efficiency will be vital if they want to compete against the Louisville Cardinals.

In their quest for success, New Mexico State must focus on finding a better shooting rhythm and converting a higher percentage of their field goals. Tightening their defense will also be a key factor in this matchup. With Femi Odukale leading the way, they have the potential to pull off a victory if they can execute these adjustments effectively.

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Unleashing Offensive Potential

The Louisville Cardinals enter this game with a record of 2-3, currently positioned last in the Atlantic Coast. They’ve had their struggles early in the season but possess the potential to turn things around. Offensively, the Cardinals are averaging 74.4 points per game. While they have shown scoring ability, their field goal percentage stands at 41.5, indicating room for improvement in their shot selection and execution.

Guard Skyy Clark has been a notable contributor for Louisville, averaging 14.4 points per game. Additionally, forward Brandon Huntley-Hatfield’s impressive rebounding with 9.8 rebounds per game and center Dennis Evans’ remarkable 71.4% field goal percentage provide the team with strengths to build upon. On the defensive end, the Cardinals have allowed an average of 74.0 points per game, with opponents shooting at 43.3% from the field. To secure a win in this matchup, Louisville must focus on improving their offensive consistency and tightening their defense.

Louisville’s path to victory lies in finding their offensive groove and capitalizing on the strengths of key players like Skyy Clark, Brandon Huntley-Hatfield, and Dennis Evans. Their defense has the potential to limit New Mexico State’s scoring opportunities if they can successfully tighten their perimeter defense and contest shots effectively.

David’s Pick – Louisville Cardinals -6

In this closely contested matchup, the Louisville Cardinals hold a slight advantage. Their offense, averaging 74.4 points per game and shooting at 41.5%, outperforms the Aggies. Louisville’s defense, allowing 74.0 points per game on 43.3% shooting, also holds the edge over New Mexico State. These stats indicate that the Cardinals are better equipped on both ends of the floor.

While Femi Odukale has been a standout player for the Aggies, the Cardinals’ defensive prowess, led by Brandon Huntley-Hatfield and Dennis Evans, should be able to contain him to some extent. Additionally, Louisville’s more balanced scoring attack, with contributors like Skyy Clark, should give them the edge in this matchup.

In conclusion, my pick for this game is the Louisville Cardinals. With their superior offensive and defensive stats, they should be able to secure a hard-fought victory over New Mexico State. Expect a competitive game, but the Cardinals’ overall team performance should lead them to success.