Event Preview
Overview
The University at Buffalo Bulls will face the St. Bonaventure Bonnies in a men's basketball matchup on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 2:00 PM EST at Alumni Arena in Buffalo, New York. This game is part of the annual "Big 4" rivalry series, which includes Buffalo, St. Bonaventure, Canisius, and Niagara. Both teams are entering the game with strong records, making this a crucial contest for early-season momentum.
Season Snapshot
Buffalo Bulls
The Bulls have started the season with an impressive 8-0 record, showcasing a balanced offensive and defensive approach. They are averaging 78.4 points per game while allowing 79.7 points per game. Their field goal percentage stands at 45.9%, indicating efficient shooting. Notably, Buffalo has been strong at home, maintaining a perfect 4-0 record at Alumni Arena. (oddscrowd.com)
St. Bonaventure Bonnies
The Bonnies have also had a strong start, holding an 8-1 record. They are averaging 73.6 points per game and have a scoring defense allowing 61.1 points per game. Their field goal percentage is slightly higher at 46.8%. St. Bonaventure has been particularly dominant at home, boasting a 4-0 record at the Reilly Center. (oddscrowd.com)
Recent Form
Buffalo Bulls
The Bulls are on a five-game winning streak, demonstrating consistent performance. Their most recent victory was a 71-53 win against the Canisius Golden Griffins, where Ryan Sabol led with 24 points. (foxsports.com)
St. Bonaventure Bonnies
The Bonnies have won four of their last five games. Their most recent loss was a 85-70 defeat to No. 16 North Carolina, where Frank Mitchell led with 18 points. (reuters.com)
Talking Points
-
Home Court Advantage: Both teams have been strong at home, with Buffalo at 4-0 and St. Bonaventure at 4-0. How will this influence the game's outcome?
-
Offensive Firepower: Buffalo averages 78.4 points per game, while St. Bonaventure averages 73.6. Which team's offense will prevail?
-
Defensive Strategies: St. Bonaventure allows 61.1 points per game, indicating strong defense. Can they contain Buffalo's high-scoring offense?
-
Key Players: Ryan Sabol of Buffalo and Frank Mitchell of St. Bonaventure have been standout performers. How will their performances impact the game?
-
Rivalry Dynamics: As part of the "Big 4" rivalry, this game carries extra significance. How will the rivalry atmosphere affect both teams?
Players to Watch
-
Ryan Sabol (Buffalo): Averaging 18.6 points per game, Sabol has been a consistent scorer for the Bulls. (oddscrowd.com)
-
Frank Mitchell (St. Bonaventure): Leading the Bonnies with 15.6 points and 7.3 rebounds per game, Mitchell has been a dominant force. (oddscrowd.com)
-
Dasonte Bowen (St. Bonaventure): Averaging 11.7 points and 4.0 assists per game, Bowen has been instrumental in the Bonnies' offense. (oddscrowd.com)
-
Noah Batchelor (Buffalo): Averaging 6.6 rebounds per game, Batchelor's presence in the paint will be crucial. (oddscrowd.com)
-
Tyson Dunn (Buffalo): Averaging 6.1 assists per game, Dunn's playmaking abilities will be key to Buffalo's offensive flow. (oddscrowd.com)
Key Matchups & Storylines
-
Offensive vs. Defensive Battle: Buffalo's high-scoring offense faces St. Bonaventure's strong defense. Which will dominate?
-
Rebounding Contest: With both teams averaging similar rebounding numbers, controlling the boards could be pivotal.
-
Point Guard Play: Dasonte Bowen's playmaking against Buffalo's defense will be a critical matchup.
-
Bench Contributions: Depth could be a deciding factor. Which team's bench will step up?
Fun Facts
-
St. Bonaventure has held opponents to 61 or fewer points six times this season. (gobonnies.com)
-
Buffalo has a perfect 4-0 record at home this season. (oddscrowd.com)
-
The "Big 4" rivalry includes Buffalo, St. Bonaventure, Canisius, and Niagara.
-
St. Bonaventure's home record against Buffalo is 8-1. (gobonnies.com)
-
Buffalo's field goal percentage is 45.9%, while St. Bonaventure's is 46.8%. (oddscrowd.com)
Things to Chirp About
-
"Can Buffalo's offense overpower St. Bonaventure's defense?"
-
"Will Frank Mitchell continue his dominant performance for the Bonnies?"
-
"How will the rivalry atmosphere impact the game's intensity?"
-
"Which team's bench will provide the crucial spark?"
Prediction
This matchup promises to be a closely contested game, with both teams showcasing strengths in different areas. Buffalo's high-scoring offense will challenge St. Bonaventure's strong defense. The game's outcome may hinge on which team can impose its style of play and make key plays in critical moments.