The Bradley Braves (17-14, 9-9 MVC) battle against the Missouri State Bears (16-15, 10-8 MVC) in the Missouri Valley Conference Tourney at Enterprise Center. Action begins at 3:30 p.m. ET on Friday, March 8, 2019.
Bradley Braves vs. Missouri State Bears Betting Odds
Both teams lost in their last matchup. The Bears fell to the Drake Bulldogs, 73-62, while the Braves were defeated by the Loyola Chicago Ramblers, 81-68.
Bradley had a much better offensive rebounding percentage (31.3 vs. 25.0) while Missouri State had a turnover percentage of 5.2 (better than their season average of 16.8). Missouri State received a boost from Jarred Dixon, who put up 18 points and five rebounds. Ja’Shon Henry, meanwhile was a key piece for Bradley with 15 points and seven rebounds.
Half-court execution will be critical when two of the NCAA’s slowest-paced teams square off. Missouri State ranks 321st in possessions per game (65.9) and Bradley is 319th (65.9).
Bradley Braves vs. Missouri State Bears Pick
Basketball Prediction: SU Winner – Missouri State, ATS Winner – Missouri State, O/U – Under
Betting Notes:
- Missouri State ranks 28th in three pointers allowed per game (19.2) while Bradley ranks 120th (21.6).
- The Braves rank 207th in assists per game (12.2) while the Bears rank 242nd (11.3).
- The Braves rank 200th in rebounds per game (34.2) while the Bears rank 272nd (31.6).
- Bradley ranks 30th in blocks allowed per game (2.5) while Missouri State ranks 75th (3.0).
Bettings Trends:
- The Bears have been outscored by an average of 5.8 points in their last five games. For the season, Missouri State has defeated opponents by an average of 1.7 points.
- During their last five games, the Braves have scored an average of 66.2 points per game (1.3 below their season average) and allowed an average of 64.0 points per game (2.0 below their season average).
