Morgan State Bears vs Norfolk State Spartans Prediction – 3/14/2025

The Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) tournament semifinals are set to feature an exciting contest between the Morgan State Bears and the Norfolk State Spartans on Friday, March 14, 2025, at 6:00 PM at the Norfolk Scope Arena in Norfolk, Virginia. This game promises to be a thrilling encounter as both teams vie for a spot in the championship game.

Morgan State Bears vs Norfolk State Spartans Game Preview

The Morgan State Bears enter this semifinal matchup with a season record of 14-17, including a 7-7 mark in conference play. They are coming off a nail-biting 91-90 victory over Howard in the quarterfinals, where guard Kameron Hobbs delivered an outstanding performance, scoring 33 points and grabbing seven rebounds. Hobbs has been a consistent performer for the Bears, averaging 16.1 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game this season. Forward Will Thomas also contributes significantly, averaging 14.3 points and 3.8 rebounds per game.

Offensively, Morgan State averages 80.4 points per game, shooting 48.1% from the field and 33.9% from beyond the arc. However, their defense has been a concern, allowing an average of 81.2 points per game, which ranks them 356th among Division I teams in opponent points per game. This defensive vulnerability could be a critical factor against a potent Norfolk State offense.

On the other side, the Norfolk State Spartans boast a 22-10 overall record and an impressive 11-3 conference record, tying them for first place in the MEAC standings. They concluded the regular season with a 77-70 win over Maryland Eastern Shore. Guard Brian Moore Jr. leads the Spartans, averaging 18.7 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game. Guard Christian Ings adds depth to the backcourt with averages of 11.6 points and 3.3 assists per game.

Norfolk State's offense is formidable, averaging 78.2 points per game while shooting 49.4% from the field. Defensively, they are more robust than their opponents, allowing 69.5 points per game. Their ability to control the game on both ends of the court makes them a formidable opponent.

Betting Insights

As of the latest available data, the betting odds for this matchup are as follows:

• Point Spread: Norfolk State favored by 11.5 points
• Over/Under: 154.5 points

These odds suggest that bookmakers anticipate a high-scoring game with Norfolk State as the clear favorite. Bettors should consider the following trends:

• Morgan State is 10-4 against the spread (ATS) in its last 14 games.
• The total has gone over in 5 of Morgan State's last 7 games.
• Norfolk State is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games.
• The total has gone over in 3 of Norfolk State's last 4 games.

These trends indicate that while Norfolk State has been winning games, they have struggled to cover the spread recently. Additionally, both teams have been involved in high-scoring games, suggesting the over might be a favorable bet.

Morgan State Bears vs Norfolk State Spartans Prediction

Considering the current form and statistical analysis, Norfolk State appears to have the upper hand in this semifinal matchup. Their balanced offense and more reliable defense provide them with a significant advantage over a Morgan State team that has struggled defensively throughout the season. While Morgan State's offense, led by the dynamic Kameron Hobbs, has the potential to keep the game competitive, their defensive shortcomings are likely to be exploited by Norfolk State's efficient scoring.

Given the point spread of 11.5 points, it's plausible that Norfolk State will secure the win but may not cover the spread, considering their recent ATS performance. The over/under set at 154.5 points seems attainable, given both teams' tendencies to participate in high-scoring games.

Final Score Prediction: Norfolk State Spartans 85, Morgan State Bears 75.

Bettors might consider taking Morgan State to cover the spread and the over on the total points, aligning with recent trends and statistical insights.