West Virginia Mountaineers vs North Carolina Central Eagles Picks and Predictions December 10th 2024

West Virginia Seeks to Build Momentum at Home

West Virginia (6-2) is riding a two-game winning streak and aims to capitalize on its 16-day homestand with a victory against North Carolina Central. The Mountaineers displayed grit in their 73-60 win over Georgetown on Friday, overcoming a second-half deficit with a game-changing 16-0 run. Javon Small was the standout performer, scoring 26 points to lead the charge.

Head coach Darian DeVries praised his team’s second-half intensity, but he emphasized the need for consistent performance. “You don’t always get to go on a 16-0 run to save the game,” DeVries said. “We’re still growing as a team, but the way we played in that second half, I’ll take that team anywhere.”

NCCU Looks to Turn Grit Into Wins

North Carolina Central (4-7) is coming off an electrifying 78-77 road win against Gardner-Webb, fueled by Po’Boigh King’s 28-point performance. The Eagles erased a 17-point second-half deficit, sealing the game with Isaac Parson’s clutch 3-pointer in the final moments.

Coach LeVelle Moton lauded his team’s resilience but noted areas for improvement. “We’ve got to cross some T’s, dot some I’s, and close,” he said. “In the last five minutes, the other team has to earn it.”

The Eagles excel in turnover management, ranking seventh nationally with a plus-7.5 turnover margin and second in the nation by forcing 18.9 turnovers per game. This defensive prowess could be critical against a Mountaineers team looking to find its rhythm.

Andre’s Return Boosts Mountaineers

West Virginia welcomed back center Eduardo Andre against Georgetown after he missed their 83-76 overtime victory over Arizona on Nov. 29. Though Andre’s stats were modest—four points, three rebounds, and four blocks—his defensive presence proved pivotal. “His shot-blocking ability is a huge deal for us,” DeVries said, emphasizing Andre’s importance in anchoring the Mountaineers’ defense.

Key Matchup: Small vs. King

The game could hinge on the battle between West Virginia’s Javon Small and NCCU’s Po’Boigh King. Small, averaging 16.3 points per game, has been the Mountaineers’ offensive leader. King, with a 17.4-point average, is NCCU’s primary scorer and proved his ability to step up in big moments against Gardner-Webb.

Check out the latest John Wooden Award Odds & Predictions for detailed analysis and updates.

Who Will Keep the Momentum Going?

Tuesday’s clash presents an opportunity for both teams to extend their winning ways. West Virginia hopes to maintain its strong play at home, where its crowd and familiarity offer an edge. Meanwhile, NCCU’s aggressive defense and ability to force turnovers could disrupt the Mountaineers’ rhythm.

With each team eager to turn recent triumphs into a streak, expect an intense battle in Morgantown.