The Southern Illinois Salukis (8-8, 2-1 MVC) and the Bradley Braves (11-5, 2-1 MVC) clash at Carver Arena. The Salukis will attempt to put an end to their six-game road losing streak, while the Braves look to lengthen their 10-game home winning streak. The game gets underway at 8 p.m. ET on Saturday, January 11, 2020.
Southern Illinois Salukis at Bradley Braves Betting Odds
Both teams were triumphant in their last game. The Braves easily got past the Evansville Aces 72-52, while the Salukis defeated the Valparaiso Crusaders 63-50.
The Salukis knocked down 11 of their 15 free throws (73.3 percent) and had an effective field goal percentage of 0.578 (above their season average of 0.515). The Braves, meanwhile, held the Aces to an offensive rebounding percentage of 10.8 (below their season average of 21.6) and had a turnover percentage of 10.9 (better than their season average of 15.1). Bradley was led by Nate Kennell, who recorded 17 points and 10 rebounds. Marcus Domask, meanwhile had a solid performance for Southern Illinois, putting up 23 points.
This was a highly contested series last year. Each won one of the two games played against each other last season. In the most recent game, the Salukis won 72-68. Southern Illinois’ free throw rate was their biggest advantage over Bradley. The Salukis had a rate of 0.345, while the Braves posted a mark of 0.094. This will be the first matchup of the year between these two teams.
Half-court execution will be at a premium when two of the country’s slowest-paced teams go head-to-head. Bradley ranks 281st in possessions per game (67.8) and Southern Illinois is 349th (63.9).
Southern Illinois Salukis at Bradley Braves Pick
College Basketball Pick: SU Winner – Bradley, ATS Winner – Southern Illinois, O/U – Under
Betting Notes:
- Bradley ranks 11th in rebounds per game (41.4) while Southern Illinois ranks 267th (30.4).
- The Braves rank 49th in assists allowed per game (10.9) while the Salukis rank 73rd (11.6).
- The Salukis rank 48th in three pointers allowed per game (19.1) while the Braves rank 227th (25.1).
- Southern Illinois ranks 30th in blocks allowed per game (2.5) while Bradley ranks 79th (3.2).
Bettings Trends:
- The Salukis’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 10.8, up from 3.7 for the season.
- During their last five games, the Braves have scored an average of 69.8 points per game (2.6 below their season average) and allowed an average of 66.0 points per game (2.5 above their season average).
