Penn at American University Picks and Predictions for Sunday, November 9, 2025

By: David Anicetti Published 11/09/2025, 12:05 AM ET

The Penn Quakers begin their season Sunday afternoon against the American University Eagles at Bender Arena in Washington, D.C. Penn opens a new chapter under head coach Fran McCaffery after finishing 8–19 last season, while American looks to bounce back from an 88–74 road loss to Wake Forest. Penn did play an exhibition on Friday, beating the Rowan Profs 119-72. Cash your ticket using our college basketball picks.

Penn at American University Game Information

Date & Time: Sunday, November 9, 1:00 PM ET

Where: Bender Arena, Washington, D.C.

TV: ESPN+

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Penn Quakers Preview

Penn starts the year with several familiar names and a new voice on the sideline. Senior guard Ethan Roberts leads the group after averaging 16.8 points per game a season ago. Veteran guard Dylan Williams and forward Nik Polonowski return and will come off the bench, while transfer forward T.J. Power adds interior scoring and size. McCaffery’s system will focus on spacing and ball movement, areas that should help Penn improve its offense from last year’s 73 points per game average.

The Quakers lost Sam Brown and Nick Spinoso, two of their top three scorers, leaving open opportunities for players such as AJ Levine and Augie Gerhart to handle larger roles. Penn’s focus against American will be shot selection and controlling turnovers after finishing last season with one of the Ivy League’s lower assist-to-turnover marks. Limiting second-chance points and keeping American off the line will be key to keeping the game close on the road.

American University Eagles Preview

American began its season with a competitive effort at Wake Forest, but couldn’t overcome turnovers and defensive breakdowns. Guard Wyatt Nausadis led with 22 points on 50% shooting, including 4-of-8 from three-point range. Forward Greg Jones posted 14 points, seven rebounds, and six assists, and Geoff Sprouse added 10 points on solid shooting. The Eagles hit 43% from the field and 88.9% from the line but committed 18 turnovers.

Jones and Nausadis form the core of American’s attack, combining strong scoring and solid play on the boards. The Eagles’ half-court offense was productive when not committing turnovers, generating clean looks inside and out. Against Penn, protecting the ball better and perimeter defense will decide whether American can control the pace and build on its solid offensive numbers from the opener.

Penn at American Prediction

American enters with one game under its belt and home-court advantage. Penn has the talent to compete but will need time to find its offensive balance under McCaffery. Final Score Prediction: American University Eagles win and cover ATS, 82-75.

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