Go Joe Bruin takes a look at a few key stats between the UCLA basketball team and Montana before their nonconference clash.
On Wednesday night, the Montana Grizzlies (5-3) visit the UCLA basketball (7-1) team in a nonconference clash between teams from the Big Sky and PAC-12.
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The Bruins come in on a four game winning streak while the Grizz have won just three out of their last six. Let’s take a look at a few stats and trends that may affect the game tonight.
72.5 – Points per game scored by Montana
Just looking at this number and it feels like the Bruins can easily outscore the Grizzlies. Well, they probably can. It doesn’t help that only two Montana players (Ahmaad Rorie 18 ppg and Michael Oguine 16.1 ppg) are scoring in double figures. If either of them goes cold or get into foul trouble, Montana could have a tough time putting the ball in the basket.
24.6% – Three point shooting percentage by Montana
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From beyond the arc, to say that the Grizzlies are struggling is an understatement. Hitting only five three pointers a game puts Montana 328th in the nation.
The Grizzlies much prefer to shot the ball from inside the arc. If the Bruins build a lead, the Grizz will have a tough time cutting into a lead.
234 – Montana’s strength of schedule
While some schedule difficult teams to begin their season, other schools take a somewhat lighter approach. With a strength of schedule hovering around 230th, the Grizzlies have gone with the latter of the two.
Of Montana’s five wins, two have come from Division 3 Whitworth University and NAIA Carroll College. To be fair, they did go into Pittsburgh and defeat the Panthers for their biggest win of the year to date. The Bruins will be Montana’s most difficult opponent, possibly for the entire year. UCLA needs to take advantage of the sheer difference in talent and not let Montana hang around in this game.
Even with Montana’s weak schedule, they’ve had a difficult time scoring. The Grizzlies only shot to win is to turn the Bruins over. After eight games, Montana is turning their opponents over 17.5 times a game. If they can convert those turnovers into easy baskets, the Grizzlies could keep it close.
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Montana also does a great job on the offensive boards grabbing 12 a game. Although, when a team shoots 41.8% from the floor, there is more opportunity to grab offensive rebounds. Thomas Welsh, Gyorgy Goloman, and Alex Olesinski will have to be aware of this and be sure to put a body on their man when a shot goes up.