Match Analysis: Princeton Tigers vs Bucknell Bison – Prediction
Match Details
- Date: November 11, 2025
- Time: 12:00 AM UTC
- Location: Jadwin Gymnasium, Princeton, NJ
Game Overview
Bucknell Bison (2-0) travel to Princeton Tigers (0-1) in an Ivy League matchup. Bucknell enters with momentum after consecutive victories, while Princeton is seeking their first win after a disappointing loss to Akron. This matchup features a team with strong early-season form against a home team looking to establish themselves.
Key Factors to Consider
- Bucknell is 2-0 SU and 2-0 ATS with wins over Mount St. Mary's (73-62) and Delaware (70-78). They shot 43.1% from the field and 36.4% from three against Mount St. Mary's while forcing 14 turnovers and recording 5 steals. Princeton is 1-0 overall but 0-1 to start, with a dominant 104-69 road win over Akron demonstrating offensive capability but followed by an unspecified loss. Bucknell's defensive intensity (39.2% opponent FG%) and turnover creation are key strengths.
- Princeton owns the recent H2H matchup series, winning the last three consecutive games including an 85-71 victory in their most recent meeting. This represents a 3-0 streak for Princeton in the series, which could provide psychological edge despite current records.
- Quin Berger (Bucknell guard) suffered a knee injury and was limited in an exhibition game at Louisville on October 28th, recording zero points in limited action. Current status is unclear but warrants monitoring. No other significant injuries reported for either team.
- This is an early-season Ivy League contest where both teams are establishing identity and chemistry. Bucknell's road record is 1-0 ATS, showing ability to perform away from home. Princeton's home advantage at Jadwin Gymnasium is a traditional strength for the program, though they have not yet played at home this season.
- Bucknell seeks a third consecutive win to build early momentum and establish themselves as a contender. Princeton, after a season-opening loss, is highly motivated to secure their first win at home and validate their 104-69 dominant performance over Akron. Home teams recovering from losses often respond strongly.
Odds and Predictions
| Category | Odds | Prediction | Confidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Moneyline | Bucknell +156, Princeton -194 | Princeton Tigers ML | β β β ββ 68% |
| Spread | Bucknell +4.5 -114, Princeton -4.5 -106 | Princeton -4.5 | β β β ββ 64% |
| Over/under | Over 144.5 -110, Under 144.5 -114 | Under 144.5 | β β β ββ 62% |
Top EV Betting Odds
Discover the best value bets based on our EV analysis.
| Market | EV Pick |
|---|---|
| Moneyline | Princeton Tigers 0% |
| Spread | N/A |
| Over/Under | Under 144.5 7% |
π₯ Best Value Pick: Under 144.5 at 7% EV | Suggested Bet Size: 8% (Kelly Criterion)
Predicted Outcome
Princeton Tigers to win at home despite being the more talented team on paper. While Bucknell's 2-0 start and defensive intensity are impressive, Princeton's historical dominance in this series (3-0), home-court advantage at Jadwin, and strong offensive capability (104 points vs. Akron) position them as the likely favorite. Bucknell's potential injury concerns and the motivational factor of Princeton's season-opening loss create a convergence favoring the home team.
Predicted Score: Princeton 79, Bucknell 74