Manhattan Jaspers vs Fairfield Stags Picks and Predictions for Thursday March 5 2026
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The Manhattan Jaspers face the Fairfield Stags in the MAAC Championship First Round on Thursday March 5, 2026 at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Tip-off is scheduled for 8:30 PM ET and the game will be broadcast on ESPN+. At the time of this writing the odds were not released for the moneyline, total, or spread. Be sure to also check out our free college basketball picks for more daily college basketball betting insights.
Jaspers Hoping Tournament Play Sparks a Turnaround
The Manhattan Jaspers enter the MAAC Tournament with a 12-19 overall record and an 8-12 conference record. Manhattan has struggled recently, losing three straight games. The Jaspers recently lost to Iona 69-65, lost to Saint Peter’s 75-65, and lost to Marist 84-70. Their recent wins came against Canisius 69-65 and Niagara 76-69.
Manhattan averages 74.5 points per game while allowing 79.2 points per contest. The Jaspers shoot 43% from the field and average 33.1 rebounds per game while distributing 13.0 assists per contest.
One of Manhattan’s strengths is their ability to create turnovers and generate fast-break opportunities. The Jaspers average 7.9 steals per game, which allows them to apply defensive pressure and turn defense into offense when they are playing at their best.
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Stags Enter Tournament with Stronger Season Resume
The Fairfield Stags come into this matchup with a 19-12 overall record and an 11-9 conference record. Fairfield has played solid basketball recently, winning three of their last four games before their most recent loss. The Stags recently lost to Mount St. Mary’s 69-47 but previously defeated Siena 72-58, beat Quinnipiac 85-79, and won over Sacred Heart 78-68. Their other recent loss came against Saint Peter’s 83-74.
Fairfield averages 74.9 points per game while allowing 72.3 points per contest. The Stags shoot 43% from the field and average a strong 38.5 rebounds per game while contributing 12.1 assists per contest.
One area where Fairfield has excelled this season is on the boards. Their rebounding advantage allows them to control possessions and limit opponents’ second-chance opportunities, which can be especially important in tournament games.
Manhattan Jaspers vs Fairfield Stags Pick
Jaspers vs Stags Pick
- Pick: Fairfield Stags Spread
Fairfield appears to have the edge in this matchup thanks to their stronger overall record and more consistent defensive play. The Stags allow fewer points per game than Manhattan and hold a significant advantage on the boards. With Manhattan struggling defensively throughout the season, Fairfield should be able to control the pace and create quality scoring opportunities.
Jaspers vs Stags Total Pick
- Pick: Take the Over
I like the over in this matchup because Manhattan games tend to become high-scoring due to their defensive struggles. The Jaspers allow nearly 80 points per game, which can lead to faster-paced games with plenty of scoring opportunities. If Fairfield’s offense gets going early, this game could push into higher scoring territory.
Final Score Prediction: Fairfield 82, Manhattan 74
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