UMBC Retrievers vs Howard Bison Picks and Predictions for Tuesday March 17 2026
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The UMBC Retrievers and Howard Bison meet at UD Arena in Dayton, OH, with tip-off set for 6:40 PM on truTV. UMBC enters as a slight favorite at -1.5 with a moneyline of -120, while Howard sits at EVEN, and the total is listed at 139.5. This should be a tightly contested matchup between two teams coming in with strong recent form. Be sure to check out our free college basketball picks for more daily insights and predictions.
Retrievers Riding a Dominant Winning Streak
UMBC comes into this game with an impressive 24-8 record and has been playing its best basketball of the season, recently winning over Vermont, UMass Lowell twice, New Hampshire, and NJIT. This five-game winning streak highlights a team that is not only confident but also executing at a high level on both ends of the floor.
The Retrievers are averaging 76.2 points per game while allowing around 66.0, shooting an efficient 47% from the field. They grab 35.5 rebounds per game and average 12.2 assists, while also contributing 2.6 blocks and 5.0 steals per contest. This is a well-balanced team that doesn’t rely on one specific area to win games.
What stands out most is their defensive consistency, holding opponents to one of the lower scoring averages in their range. That ability to control pace and limit easy looks has been a major factor in their recent success and gives them a strong foundation heading into this matchup.
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Bison Bringing Momentum and Offensive Firepower
Howard enters this contest with a 23-10 record and has also been on a roll, recently winning over NCCU, South Carolina State, Norfolk State, Coppin State, and Morgan State. Like UMBC, the Bison come into this game with confidence and momentum after a strong stretch of performances.
The Bison are averaging 77.5 points per game while allowing around 70.0, shooting 46% from the field. They pull down 36.6 rebounds per game and excel in ball movement with 16.2 assists per contest, while also adding 3.7 blocks and an impressive 8.7 steals per game.
Howard’s biggest strength is its ability to create turnovers and turn them into scoring opportunities. Their defensive pressure and transition offense can quickly swing momentum, making them a dangerous opponent even against a disciplined team like UMBC.
UMBC Retrievers vs Howard Bison Pick
UMBC Retrievers vs Howard Bison Spread Pick
- UMBC Retrievers -1.5
UMBC comes into this game with slightly better defensive numbers and a more consistent ability to control tempo. While both teams are on winning streaks, the Retrievers’ ability to limit scoring opportunities and dictate pace should give them the edge in what is expected to be a close game. Laying the small number with UMBC is the preferred play.
UMBC Retrievers vs Howard Bison Total Pick
- Under 139.5
I like the under in this matchup because both teams have shown they can play disciplined defense, especially UMBC, which has consistently held opponents in check. With two teams that value possessions and can slow the pace when needed, this game has the feel of a more controlled, lower-scoring contest.
Final Score Prediction: UMBC Retrievers 69, Howard Bison 66
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