Nevada Basketball vs. Fresno State: Key Strategies and Winning Prediction

Bassyonni

ago 1 day

The Nevada men’s basketball team is set to face off against Fresno State on Saturday. This Mountain West matchup will provide an opportunity for both teams to establish their positions early on in the conference schedule.

Nevada Basketball vs. Fresno State: Key Strategies

As the game approaches, here are three critical strategies for Nevada to secure a victory against Fresno State.

1. Maintain Competitive Play

Despite facing a lower-caliber team in Fresno State, Nevada must not let its performance drop. The Wolf Pack has struggled against less competitive teams in the past. This includes an unexpected loss to UC Davis and close calls against Southern Illinois and Duquesne.

Nevada’s current record stands at 10-3 and 2-0 in the Mountain West.
Fresno State sits at 6-7 and is struggling with a 0-2 conference record.

Nevada achieved recent success against top teams, including victories over Boise State and Colorado State. To win against Fresno State, they need to find their rhythm and play consistently, especially since their opponents are currently ranked 174th in the NET standings.

2. Win the Turnover Battle

Fresno State has adjusted its playing style, opting for a slower tempo. They rank 146th nationally in pace, averaging 15.1 turnovers forced per game. This is among the better rates in the country.

Fresno State generates turnovers on 20.6% of their opponents’ possessions.
In contrast, Nevada boasts the second-best turnover rate nationally.

This was further highlighted by Fresno State’s average of 14.1 turnovers per game, making it crucial for Nevada to capitalize on these mistakes while minimizing their own turnovers.

3. Dominate Inside the Paint

Fresno State’s defense has struggled against two-point shots, allowing 57.1% shooting from inside, which ranks their defense 343rd in the country. Despite their strong perimeter defense, the Bulldogs are vulnerable in the paint.

Fresno State averages only 2.1 blocks per game.
Nevada should exploit this weakness, focusing on attacking the basket.

Nevada’s offense has been aggressive, often targeting the free-throw line, which could be pivotal in their game plan.

Game Prediction

Looking ahead, the prediction for this matchup is as follows: Nevada is expected to defeat Fresno State, with a projected score of 79-68. To aspire for their first Mountain West title under coach Steve Alford, securing a win is essential as they navigate the easier portion of their schedule.

While the Wolf Pack has had a good track record against Fresno State, securing 16 victories in their last 17 encounters, they must remain vigilant. This season, Fresno State is on a five-game losing streak and will be eager to improve their performance.

As both teams prepare for the showdown at the Save Mart Center, Nevada’s key strategies will be tested, and the outcome could set the tone for their conference campaign.