Troy vs Merrimack 11/17/22 College Basketball Picks, Predictions, Odds

The Merrimack College Warriors and the Troy Trojans meet Thursday in college basketball action from Dahlberg Arena. Merrimack enters this matchup at 1-1 overall following a victory versus Clark (Mass.) in their last outing. As for Troy, they’re currently 3-0 and coming off a seven-point win over Florida State. Check back all season long for free college basketball picks at Sports Chat Place. 

Merrimack’s first matchup of the year was a tricky affair versus St. John’s. The Warriors fell behind 51-30 by halftime and limped to a 97-72 defeat. Tops in scoring was Jordan Minor with 19 points and seven rebounds with two assists. 

In game two versus Clark (Mass.), the Warriors had a much easier time. Merrimack held a 29-17 edge by halftime and cruised to a 64-48 win. Minor doubled up with 15 points and 10 boards in that one, and Devon Savage added 14 points. 

Over on the Troy side, it’s been smooth sailing so far. The Trojans kicked off the season with a matchup versus Montevallo, rolling toward an 87-67 victory. Game two against MUW was an even easier time with a 96-42 blowout victory. 

Troy’s first true test of the season came in game three versus Florida State. The Trojans passed with flying colors, jumping out to a 32-25 halftime lead in an eventual 79-72 road victory. Aamer Muhammad led the way on 23 points, and Christyon Eugene managed 22 points. 

PICK: I’m going to stay with Troy. The Trojans had a nice game on Monday in the Florida State win, shooting 41.5 percent from the field with 12-of-30 (40 percent) from 3-point range. Troy didn’t control the boards (34-32 deficit) and shot poorly from the line (59.1 percent) but the 18 team assists and 19 Florida State turnovers didn’t hurt. If they can keep it going, Troy shouldn’t have too much trouble putting Merrimack away.