Maine vs Bryant: America East Title Game Odds & Preview - Championship Spot on the Line
The Maine Black Bears (20-13) face the Bryant Bulldogs (22-11) in the America East Championship Game on Saturday, March 15, at 11 am ET. The winner will secure their first-ever America East title and NCAA Tournament berth.
Player dunks basketball in game
Bryant enters as a 6.5-point favorite at home, where they've dominated Maine this season. The Bulldogs won both regular-season matchups, including an 81-55 victory at home and an 80-72 win at Maine on March 1.
Key Factors:
- Bryant ranks 7th nationally in adjusted tempo and leads the conference in scoring
- The Bulldogs excel in offensive rebounding and limiting opponent three-point shots
- Maine is having their best season since 2004, allowing just 65.7 points per game
- Home teams are 56-12 straight up in the America East Tournament since 2015
- No team has won multiple road games to claim the title since 2012
Historical Context:
- #1 seeds are 105-15 all-time in the America East Tournament
- #1 seeds have reached the championship 34 times, winning 28
- Bryant made their only March Madness appearance in 2022 (NEC Tournament)
- Maine seeks their first-ever NCAA Tournament appearance
Prediction: Bryant's superior pace, scoring ability, and home-court advantage should prove too much for Maine. While the Black Bears' Cinderella run has been impressive, expect the Bulldogs to control the game with their rebounding and transition offense.
Pick: Bryant -6.5 (-108)
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