Delaware State Hornets vs. Norfolk State Spartans Prediction and Betting Tips

The Delaware State Hornets and Norfolk State Spartans are set to clash in a highly anticipated college basketball matchup on Monday, February 17, 2025, at Joseph G. Echols Memorial Hall in Norfolk, Virginia. Both teams enter this game on five-game winning streaks, making this a pivotal contest in the MEAC standings. With Norfolk State leading the conference at 7-1 and Delaware State tied for second at 5-3, this game could have significant implications for the postseason. In this article, we’ll break down the matchup, provide predictions, and offer betting tips to help you make informed decisions.

Game Overview

• Date and Time: Monday, February 17, 2025, at 8:00 PM ET
• Location: Joseph G. Echols Memorial Hall, Norfolk, Virginia
• TV and Streaming: ESPN+
• Betting Odds: Norfolk State -9.5, Over/Under 147.5

Team Analysis

Delaware State Hornets (13-10, 5-3 MEAC)

The Hornets are riding a five-game winning streak, showcasing their ability to dominate both offensively and defensively. In their most recent game, they routed Howard 90-69, shooting an impressive 45.6% from the field and 57.1% from three-point range. Martaz Robinson led the charge with 26 points and nine assists, while Robert Smith added 23 points and four assists.

Key Stats:

• Offense: 77.7 points per game (88th in NCAA)
• Defense: 71.4 points allowed per game (175th in NCAA)
• Rebounding: 35.4 per game (33rd in NCAA)
• Three-Point Shooting: 36.1% (74th in NCAA)

Delaware State’s strength lies in their balanced attack and ability to control the boards. However, their road record (3-9) raises concerns, especially against a strong home team like Norfolk State.

Norfolk State Spartans (17-8, 7-1 MEAC)

The Spartans are the class of the MEAC, boasting a 9-1 home record and a five-game winning streak. In their last outing, they defeated UMES 75-63, shooting 50% from the field and dominating the paint with 42 points. Brian Moore Jr. led the team with 17 points, six rebounds, and four assists.

Key Stats:

• Offense: 77.0 points per game (102nd in NCAA)
• Defense: 67.9 points allowed per game (67th in NCAA)
• Rebounding: 30.6 per game (269th in NCAA)
• Three-Point Shooting: 33.7% (196th in NCAA)

Norfolk State’s defense is their calling card, as they lead the MEAC in points allowed. Their ability to control the pace and limit opponents’ scoring makes them a formidable opponent, especially at home.

Head-to-Head and Trends

• Previous Meeting: Norfolk State defeated Delaware State 73-64 on January 6, 2025, showcasing their defensive prowess and efficiency in the paint.
• Recent Trends:
  • Norfolk State is 14-8 against the spread (ATS) this season, while Delaware State is 12-7 ATS.
  • Four of the last five meetings between these teams at Joseph G. Echols Hall have gone under the total points line.

Prediction and Betting Tips

Score Prediction

• Predicted Score: Norfolk State 78, Delaware State 69

Spread and Total Picks

• Spread: Delaware State +9.5
  • Despite Norfolk State’s dominance, Delaware State has been strong against the spread this season and could keep the game within single digits.
• Total: Under 147.5
  • Both teams prefer a slower pace, and their recent matchups have trended toward lower scores.

Moneyline

• Norfolk State: -481 (82.5% implied win probability)
• Delaware State: +360 (21.9% implied win probability)

Key Betting Insights

1. Norfolk State’s Home Advantage: The Spartans average 86.8 points per game at home, significantly higher than their road average.
2. Delaware State’s Road Struggles: The Hornets are just 3-9 on the road this season, which could be a deciding factor.
3. Defensive Battle: Both teams rank in the top half of the NCAA in points allowed, suggesting a low-scoring affair.

Key Players to Watch

Norfolk State

• Brian Moore Jr.: 18.8 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 3.1 APG
• Christian Ings: 11.7 PPG, 3.3 APG
• Jalen Myers: 10.6 PPG, 5.5 RPG

Delaware State

• Martaz Robinson: 15.9 PPG, 6.6 RPG, 2.7 APG
• Robert Smith: 16.7 PPG, 3.3 APG
• Kaseem Watson: 15.6 PPG, 51.2% FG

Final Thoughts

This matchup promises to be a thrilling contest between two of the MEAC’s top teams. While Norfolk State is the favorite, Delaware State’s recent form and ability to cover spreads make them a compelling underdog. For bettors, taking Delaware State with the points and betting the under on the total points line could be the best approach.

Tune in to ESPN+ on Monday night to catch all the action and see if the Hornets can upset the Spartans or if Norfolk State will continue their dominance in the MEAC.

For more college basketball predictions and betting tips, stay tuned to our expert analysis and updates.