West Coast Conference Showdown: Loyola Marymount Lions vs. Pepperdine Waves Preview
The Loyola Marymount Lions will face off against the Pepperdine Waves in a West Coast Conference matchup in Los Angeles. Loyola Marymount is looking to extend its three-game winning streak with a victory over Pepperdine. The Lions have a strong 9-3 record at home but have struggled in close games, going 0-1 in games decided by 3 points or fewer. On the other hand, the Waves have a 6-6 record against WCC opponents and average 70.0 points per game, outscoring their opponents by 4.6 points on average.
Loyola Marymount's 3-point shooting has been a key factor this season, averaging 5.0 made 3-pointers per game, which is lower than the 6.4 per game that Pepperdine allows. However, Pepperdine has been more efficient on offense, averaging 7.0 more points per game than Loyola Marymount's defense allows. This matchup will be the first meeting between the Lions and Waves in WCC play this season.
Key players to watch in this game include Andjela Matic for the Lions, who averages 1.9 made 3-pointers per game, and Jess Lawson, who has been a consistent scorer and rebounder for Loyola Marymount. For Pepperdine, Shorna Preston and Elli Guiney have been standout performers, averaging solid numbers in points and rebounds over the past few games.
In their last 10 games, the Lions have been on a hot streak, going 8-2 and averaging 76.6 points per game. The Waves have also been performing well, with a 6-4 record and averaging 70.7 points per game. Both teams have been solid on defense, holding their opponents to under 70 points on average.
It will be an exciting matchup between these two WCC teams, and fans can expect a competitive game between the Lions and Waves. The outcome of this game could have implications for the standings in the conference, making it a crucial matchup for both teams.