East Carolina Pirates vs UAB Blazers Pick – 3/14/2025

The East Carolina Pirates and the UAB Blazers are set to face off in the American Athletic Conference Quarterfinals on Friday, March 14, 2025, at 9:00 PM at Dickies Arena. This matchup promises to be a compelling contest between two teams with strong seasons and aspirations for postseason success.

East Carolina Pirates vs UAB Blazers Game Preview

The East Carolina Pirates enter the tournament with a 19-13 overall record, having won seven of their last nine games. Their recent victories include wins over Charlotte, Tulane, Florida Atlantic, and UTSA. The Pirates' offense is led by RJ Felton, who averages 18.5 points and 6.5 rebounds per game, and CJ Walker, contributing 17.2 points per game. East Carolina scores an average of 76 points per game on 43.8% shooting from the field and allows 73.4 points on 44.2% shooting. They have a three-point shooting percentage of 31.5% and a free throw percentage of 71.7%. Defensively, they allow opponents to shoot 37.9% from beyond the arc and average 34.5 rebounds per game.

The UAB Blazers come into the game with a 20-11 record, having faced teams like Memphis, Florida Atlantic, and Tulane in recent matchups. Notably, UAB has not lost two consecutive games since November. The Blazers boast a high-powered offense, averaging 83 points per game on 46.4% shooting. Yaxel Lendeborg leads the team with 17.1 points and 10.5 rebounds per game, while Alejandro Vasquez adds 11.4 points per game. UAB's defense allows 78.6 points per game on 45.5% shooting. They shoot 34.4% from three-point range and 75.9% from the free-throw line, while allowing opponents to shoot 35.1% from deep and averaging 35.9 rebounds per game.

In their previous encounter on February 11, 2025, East Carolina emerged victorious with an 82-75 win. CJ Walker led the Pirates with 29 points, and RJ Felton added 23 points. For UAB, Yaxel Lendeborg recorded a double-double with 22 points and 10 rebounds. This game showcased the offensive capabilities of both teams and set the stage for an exciting rematch.

Betting Insights

As of the latest information, UAB is favored by 4.5 points, with an over/under set at 152.5 points. Bettors should consider the following trends:

• East Carolina has won four of its last five night games.
• UAB has won 11 of its last 12 night games against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• UAB has lost three of its last four games played at neutral venues.

These trends suggest that while UAB has been strong in night games, their performance at neutral sites has been less consistent. East Carolina's recent success in night games adds an interesting dynamic to this matchup.

East Carolina Pirates vs UAB Blazers Prediction

Considering the teams' recent performances and statistical profiles, this game is expected to be closely contested. East Carolina's balanced scoring and recent momentum provide them with a solid foundation. However, UAB's high-scoring offense and the presence of Yaxel Lendeborg, who has been a consistent double-double threat, give the Blazers a slight edge.

Given UAB's offensive prowess and East Carolina's defensive challenges, particularly in defending the three-point line, the Blazers are likely to capitalize on scoring opportunities. While East Carolina's recent form is commendable, UAB's overall consistency and offensive firepower make them the more favorable pick in this matchup.

Prediction: UAB Blazers to win and cover the spread.