Niagara Purple Eagles vs Iona Gaels Pick and Prediction for Friday January 9 2026
Use Code WWWC The Niagara Purple Eagles travel to the Hynes Athletics Center to face the Iona Gaels on Friday, January 9, 2026. This 7:00 PM EST matchup, streaming on ESPN+, features an Iona team looking to climb the MAAC standings against a Niagara squad that has struggled to find consistency on the road this season (1-7 Away). For expert analysis and daily wagering insights on all MAAC action, be sure to check out the latest free college basketball picks over at Winners and Whiners.
Niagara Purple Eagles: Seeking the Upset
The Purple Eagles (4-10, 1-3 MAAC) enter this contest as significant underdogs. Offensively, Niagara averages 63.7 points per game, which ranks toward the bottom of the conference. They rely heavily on senior guard James Page, who leads the team in both points (12.5 PPG) and assists (2.6 APG). While they struggle with scoring volume, their 43% field goal percentage shows they can be efficient when they find the right looks.
Niagara enters this game with a clean bill of health, as there are no reported injuries to their primary rotation. Head coach Greg Paulus will have his full complement of players, including leading rebounder Will Shortt (3.8 RPG), as they attempt to overcome Iona's aggressive defensive style.
Iona Gaels: Defending New Rochelle
The Gaels (10-6, 2-3 MAAC) have been formidable at home this season, posting a 5-1 record at the Hynes Athletics Center. Iona plays a high-tempo game, averaging 76.1 points per game and leading the conference in steals (7.6 per game). Junior guard Comeh Anthony is the engine of the team, leading the Gaels in points (15.3 PPG) and assists (5.7 APG), while Lamin Sabally anchors the interior with 7.6 rebounds per game.
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Iona also reports no active injuries to their main rotation players. After a tough road loss to Marist, the Gaels are expected to return to their standard starting lineup featuring Anthony, Sabally, and sharp-shooter Luke Jungers.
Niagara Purple Eagles vs. Iona Gaels Prediction
Iona’s athleticism and home-court advantage present a major challenge for a Niagara team that has struggled away from home. The Gaels' ability to force turnovers (7.6 steals) should play a decisive role against a Niagara offense that often struggles with depth scoring.
Niagara vs. Iona ATS Pick
- Pick: Iona Gaels -12.5 (-112)
Iona has been dominant in their home wins, often winning by double digits against lower-tier MAAC opponents. Niagara’s scoring struggles (63.7 PPG) make it difficult for them to keep pace with a Gaels team that can put up 80 points with ease in their own gym. Expect Iona to use their defensive pressure to build a lead early and cover the double-digit spread.
Niagara vs. Iona Total Pick
- Pick: Over 142.5 (-105)
While Niagara is a lower-scoring team, Iona’s defensive style often leads to fast-break opportunities for both sides. Iona has seen the Over hit in several of their high-tempo home games this season. If Niagara can contribute at least 65 points, Iona's offensive firepower should be more than enough to push the total past 142.5.
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