Washington Huskies vs Seattle U Redhawks Picks and Predictions December 23rd 2024

Washington, Seattle Clash for Statewide Bragging Rights

Washington aims to secure in-state dominance as it hosts Seattle University on Monday night in Seattle. The Huskies (8-3) have already bested Eastern Washington and Washington State in their recent homestand, with hopes of sweeping their Evergreen State competition.

Washington’s Recent Surge

Under first-year head coach Danny Sprinkle, the Huskies appear to be hitting their stride. They notched season highs in points (89) and assists (18) during last Wednesday’s 89-73 victory over Washington State. Washington shot 50 percent from the field, including an efficient 10-for-21 from 3-point range.

“I thought (Wednesday) was obviously the best that we’ve played,” Sprinkle said. “The game is so much easier when you’re making shots. We’ve been getting those same looks in other games, and I still felt like we left a lot of points on the board.”

The Huskies’ aggressive defense was key, forcing 22 turnovers and converting them into a 24-4 edge in points. Guard DJ Davis led the way with a season-high 21 points, while Great Osobor contributed 13 points, eight rebounds, and four assists.

Plan Your Game with College Basketball Picks! Our NCAAB basketball expert picks are ready to guide you.

Seattle’s Struggles

The Redhawks (4-8) enter the game looking to rebound from a 79-68 loss to UIC last Friday, despite Brayden Maldonado’s 22-point effort. Seattle has struggled to find consistency this season and has lost two straight games.

Head coach Chris Victor remains optimistic about the team’s potential, though he acknowledges there’s work to be done.

“I think we have good pieces, and I think these guys are getting along really well together,” Victor said. “But how high of a level this team reaches, I don’t know. We’re going to have to keep growing.”

Seattle has also dealt with injuries that have impacted their frontcourt. Matthew-Alexander Moncrieffe, the team’s leading scorer and rebounder (13.9 points, 10.3 rebounds), has missed three consecutive games for undisclosed reasons. Fellow forward Kobe Williamson has been sidelined all season with a broken foot.

Injury Concerns for Both Teams

The Huskies have injury issues of their own. Backup forward Wilhelm Breidenbach left last Wednesday’s game against Washington State after hitting his head while grabbing a rebound and is now in concussion protocol. Starting center Franck Kepnang remains out after suffering a knee injury early in the season.

The Next Level Of Sports Insight Is Waiting!

Register Here!

Recent History

Washington has dominated the series, winning 18 straight games against Seattle since 1978. However, last season’s meeting was a nail-biter. The Huskies had to rally from a 16-point second-half deficit before narrowly escaping with a 100-99 double-overtime victory.

What’s at Stake

While Gonzaga continues to reign as the state’s premier basketball program, Monday’s game offers an opportunity for both teams to bolster their standing within Washington’s basketball hierarchy. The Huskies, with their solid defense and improving offense, appear poised to extend their dominance over the Redhawks. However, Seattle’s determination and recent history of pushing Washington to the brink make this matchup a compelling in-state battle.