The December 7, 2025 matchup between the Niagara Purple Eagles and the Saint Peter’s Peacocks at Jersey City’s Yanitelli Center isn’t just another MAAC game. It’s a clash of two very different vibes: Niagara’s desperate hunt for stability on the road, and Saint Peter’s stubborn, gritty home-court defense.
With ESPN+ cameras rolling and the early-season storylines still forming, this one in Jersey City could really swing things for both teams. Maybe it’s too early to call it a turning point, but it feels like one.
Easy booking across hundreds of accommodations from luxury high-rises to unearthed brownstone treasures.
Browse Accommodations Now
Niagara’s Road Woes vs. Saint Peter’s Home Edge
Niagara comes in struggling. They’re 2–6 overall, and just 1–5 when they leave home.
Their last game? A rough 29-point loss to Siena that exposed issues on both ends, especially away from their own gym.
Saint Peter’s tells a different story at the Yanitelli Center. The Peacocks are 3–4, but what jumps out is their 3–1 home record.
They just beat Canisius by 12, showing again that in Jersey City, they defend, disrupt, and close games at the line.
Offensive Production: Modest Scoring, Different Paths
Neither squad lights up the scoreboard, but how they score says a lot about this matchup. Saint Peter’s averages 67.4 points per game—nothing flashy, but it works with their defense.
Niagara trails with 62.2 points a night. They just haven’t found enough reliable offense to cover up their other issues.
Oddly enough, Niagara shoots better from the field at 41.1%, while Saint Peter’s sits at 37.0%. Still, that edge doesn’t go far when the Peacocks slow things down and grind out each possession.
Find available hotels and vacation homes instantly. No fees, best rates guaranteed!
Check Availability Now
Key Players: Who Can Tilt the Game?
Early December conference games often come down to individual efforts. Both teams bring a few names you’ll want to keep an eye on.
Saint Peter’s: Bland, Robinson, and Defensive Bite
The Peacocks lean on Brent Bland and TJ Robinson. These two do a bit of everything—score when needed, defend with energy, and set the tone in the backcourt.
But Saint Peter’s real calling card is defense:
That combo—creating turnovers and cashing in at the line—lets Saint Peter’s control games even when shots aren’t falling.
Niagara: Page, Prudhomme, and a Search for Support
For Niagara, it’s Justin Page and Reggie Prudhomme carrying most of the load. They provide the offensive spark and do what they can defensively.
The problem? Depth just isn’t there. Support outside those two is spotty, and it really shows on defense.
The Purple Eagles average only 5.6 steals per game—barely half of Saint Peter’s total. That’s a big gap over 40 minutes, giving Saint Peter’s more chances and forcing Niagara to be almost perfect just to keep up.
Betting Outlook: Why the Peacocks Are Favored
The numbers behind the odds don’t lie. Niagara’s 0–5 against the spread in their last five games, which says a lot about their struggles.
Saint Peter’s is just 2–3 ATS in that same stretch, but their home results and defensive stats still make them favorites by at least 5.5 points. Oddsmakers see a few things:
Niagara’s better shooting percentage matters, but Saint Peter’s ability to control tempo and squeeze teams into tough shots just outweighs it.
Jersey City’s Role: More Than Just a Backdrop
For Saint Peter’s, the Yanitelli Center isn’t just a home court. It’s a tight, urban gym where crowd noise bounces off the walls.
Visiting teams often struggle to settle in here. That’s a real edge in a season where every conference win counts.
If you’re planning to travel for the game, the area around campus makes things easy. There’s quick access to transit, plenty of dining options, and honestly, a growing list of things to do in Jersey City before and after tipoff.
From Journal Square to the bustling waterfront, each city district brings its own vibe. Game day can easily stretch into a full day out, not just two hours of basketball.
Out-of-towners might want to check out the many Jersey City hotels nearby. It’s simple to walk or grab a quick ride to the Yanitelli Center.
If it’s your first visit, picking where to stay in Jersey City usually depends on your style. Do you want the high-energy waterfront, the old-school charm of historic neighborhoods, or just the convenience of being near transit?
PATH trains, ferries, buses, and highways all make getting to Jersey City pretty straightforward. That leaves you free to focus on what really matters: a December matchup that could set the tone for Saint Peter’s season and remind everyone that winning in Jersey City is never easy.
Find the perfect hotel or vacation rental. Instant booking, no fees!
View Top Stays
Here is the source article for this story: Niagara Purple Eagles vs Saint Peter’s Peacocks Prediction & Free CBB Betting Pick
Getting Around Jersey City, NJ
Plan Your Stay in Jersey City, NJ
Things to Do in Jersey City, NJ
