San Francisco Dons vs Pepperdine Waves Pick and Prediction for Saturday January 10 2026
Use Code WWWC The San Francisco Dons travel to Malibu to take on the Pepperdine Waves on Saturday, January 10, 2026. This 8:00 PM EST matchup, airing on ESPN+, sees a top-tier San Francisco squad attempting to keep pace with the WCC leaders against a Pepperdine team looking for its first conference victory. For expert analysis and daily wagering insights on the West Coast Conference, be sure to check out the latest free college basketball picks over at Winners and Whiners.
San Francisco Dons: Balanced and Efficient
The Dons (11-6, 3-1 WCC) enter Firestone Fieldhouse having won four of their last five games. San Francisco is a disciplined unit on both ends of the floor, averaging 75.1 points per game while holding opponents to just 68.2 points. Their offensive efficiency is a hallmark of their success, shooting 44% from the field and moving the ball exceptionally well (14.4 assists per game).
The roster is largely healthy but remains without Ndewedo Newbury, who is listed as OUT with a leg injury. Despite this absence, the Dons' frontcourt has been dominant on the glass, averaging 37.9 rebounds per game. Their ability to control the boards and limit second-chance points has been the catalyst for their strong start to conference play.
Pepperdine Waves: Searching for Defensive Answers
The Waves (5-13, 0-5 WCC) have struggled significantly in conference play, dropping their first five WCC contests. Statistically, Pepperdine averages 70.6 points per game but has found it difficult to stop opponents, surrendering 75.9 points against. Their defense has been particularly vulnerable to high-tempo offenses, having allowed over 80 points in several recent outings.
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The team's depth is currently a major concern as Javon Cooley is listed as OUT with an undisclosed injury. This is a significant blow to the rotation, as Cooley was a primary scoring option and a key perimeter defender. Without him, the Waves will need to rely heavily on their backcourt to improve their 43% field goal percentage and find a way to neutralize the Dons' superior size in the paint.
San Francisco vs. Pepperdine Prediction
San Francisco has a massive statistical advantage in almost every category, particularly in rebounding and defensive efficiency.
San Francisco vs. Pepperdine ATS Pick
- Pick: San Francisco -12.5
The Dons have been excellent at covering large spreads against bottom-tier conference opponents. With Pepperdine missing a key contributor in Cooley and struggling to stop the ball defensively, San Francisco should be able to dictate the tempo and find high-percentage looks throughout the game. Expect the Dons to use their rebounding advantage (37.9 to 34.4) to pull away for a double-digit victory in Malibu.
San Francisco vs. Pepperdine Total Pick
- Pick: Under 146.5
While the Waves' defense is prone to lapses, San Francisco’s defensive structure is built to slow games down once they have a lead. The Dons have held three of their last four opponents to 68 points or fewer. If Pepperdine struggles to score without Cooley, this game is likely to finish with a score in the neighborhood of 78-62, keeping the total under the projected line.
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