Match Analysis: Sacramento St Hornets vs UC Santa Barbara Gauchos – Prediction
Match Details
- Date: November 12, 2025
- Time: 3:00 AM UTC
- Location: Hornet Pavilion, Sacramento, CA
Game Overview
UC Santa Barbara (2-0) travels to face Sacramento State (2-0) in a matchup between two unbeaten teams in their early-season campaigns. UCSB enters as a significant favorite, with the Gauchos showing superior efficiency on both ends of the floor. This represents UCSB's first true road test, while Sacramento State looks to protect their home court after strong early performances.
Key Factors to Consider
- UC Santa Barbara has been exceptionally efficient, averaging 91.5 points per game while holding opponents to just 70.5 PPG, resulting in a +21 point differential. The Gauchos shoot 51.7% from the field, grab 42.5 rebounds per game, and average 16 assists, demonstrating balanced offensive execution. Key player Caleb Smith leads with 18.5 PPG on 61.1% shooting with 71.4% free throw accuracy. Recent wins include a dominant 98-67 rout of San Francisco State and an 85-74 victory over San Jose State. Sacramento State has posted wins over Dominican University (103-79) and William Jessup Warriors (86-76), but has struggled historically, losing six of their last six games against Big West Conference opponents and losing the first half in each of their last seven non-conference games.
- In their last matchup on November 30, 2018, UCSB dominated Sacramento State 75-58, with the Gauchos controlling the game decisively. This historical edge provides additional confidence for UCSB's superior execution level.
- No injuries reported for either team in the available data.
- This is UCSB's first road game of the season, which could introduce some adjustment challenges despite their strong overall performance. Sacramento State is playing at home where they are 2-0, a potential advantage. However, Sacramento State has lost seven of their last nine road night games against non-conference opponents when away, suggesting their home court is critical to their success.
- UCSB is motivated to extend their perfect record and prove themselves in a road environment. Sacramento State is motivated to protect their home court but faces historical pressure having lost significantly to UCSB previously. The Hornets have recent momentum with back-to-back home wins but lack the offensive consistency UCSB has demonstrated.
Odds and Predictions
| Category | Odds | Prediction | Confidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Moneyline | Sacramento St +380 | UCSB -500 | UC Santa Barbara Gauchos | β β β β β 78% |
| Spread | Sacramento St +9.5 -110 | UCSB -9.5 -110 | UC Santa Barbara -9.5 | β β β β β 74% |
| Over/under | Over 161.5 -112 | Under 161.5 -108 | Under 161.5 | β β β β β 72% |
Top EV Betting Odds
Discover the best value bets based on our EV analysis.
| Market | EV Pick |
|---|---|
| Moneyline | UC Santa Barbara Gauchos -6% |
| Spread | N/A |
| Over/Under | Under 161.5 39% |
π₯ Best Value Pick: Under 161.5 at 39% EV | Suggested Bet Size: 41.8% (Kelly Criterion)
Predicted Outcome
UC Santa Barbara will win this matchup convincingly. The Gauchos' superior efficiency, balanced offensive attack, dominant rebounding, and strong defensive discipline should prove too much for Sacramento State despite the road disadvantage. UCSB's 51.7% field goal shooting, 16 assists per game, and +21 point differential far exceed Sacramento State's capabilities. While Sacramento State will benefit from home court advantage, the talent and efficiency gap is too significant to overcome.
Predicted Score: UCSB 82, Sacramento State 68