The 3-seed Maine Black Bears (20-13) face the 1-seed Bryant Bulldogs (22-11) in the America East Championship Game, with both teams seeking their first conference title. Tipoff is set for 11 am ET at Bryant University.

Bryant enters as a 6.5-point favorite with the total set at 143.5. History favors the Bulldogs, as 1-seeds are 28-6 in America East title games and have won three straight. Home teams are 56-12 straight up since 2015.

The Bulldogs showcase the conference's top offense and rank seventh nationally in adjusted tempo. Their offensive rebounding prowess and ability to limit three-point shots make them particularly dangerous. Bryant swept Maine in the regular season, winning 81-55 at home and 80-72 on the road.

Maine reached 20 wins for the first time since 2004 and relies on a slower pace with strong defense, allowing just 65.7 points per game. The Black Bears upset Vermont in the semifinals but face a significant challenge, as no team has won multiple road games to claim the America East title since 2012.

Bryant's fast-paced offense and rebounding advantage should prove too much for Maine. The Bulldogs, motivated by last year's championship game loss, are poised to secure their first America East title.

Prediction: Bryant -6.5 (-108)

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