Carmelo Pacheco injured, impacting Mount St. Mary's strategy

Mount St. Mary’s and American University will compete today in the First Four of the NCAA Tournament. The winner will advance to the Round of 64 against No. 1 seed Duke. However, Mount St. Mary’s faces a significant challenge. Sophomore guard Carmelo Pacheco has been ruled out due to a finger injury. Pacheco has been an important player this season, averaging 9.5 points per game. His absence will change the team’s game plan. Mount St. Mary’s head coach Dan Engelstad will need other players, like Dakota Leffew, to increase their offensive contributions. The team will focus on improving ball movement and perimeter shooting as they prepare for the matchup. This game will be the 71st meeting between the two teams. American University holds a slight edge in their history and won their last encounter by four points in November. Both teams are eager to secure a win in this close matchup. Current betting odds favor American University by 2.5 points. Predictions suggest American University has a 60% chance of winning, while Mount St. Mary’s has a 40% chance. The predicted final score is 67-65 in favor of American University. As this game is crucial, fans will witness an intense and competitive battle between two well-known rivals.