Austin Peay vs Eastern Kentucky Picks and Prediction – 2/1/2025

Austin Peay (9-13, 4-5 Conference) is coming off a much-needed win against Central Arkansas, edging them 73-71 after two straight losses. The Governors' offense has been inconsistent, averaging 68.9 points per game on just 40.0% shooting. Guard LJ Thomas leads the team in scoring with 13.7 points per game, though he is shooting just 37.6% from the field. Sai Witt controls the boards, pulling down 5.7 rebounds per game, but the team struggles on the glass, averaging only 33.1 rebounds per contest. Austin Peay’s ball movement is subpar, averaging just 11.6 assists per game. Slam dunk your bets with our College Basketball picks.

Defensively, the Governors are vulnerable, allowing 73.7 points per game while forcing 7.7 steals. They lack a strong interior presence, averaging just 2.4 blocks per game, and struggle in defensive rebounding situations. JaVar Daniel leads the team in blocked shots, but at only 0.8 per game, rim protection is a major weakness. Austin Peay must tighten up its defense, as the last meeting with Eastern Kentucky saw them give up 90 points despite winning in overtime.

Eastern Kentucky (11-11, 5-4 Conference) has built momentum with back-to-back wins, including a recent 81-77 victory over Florida Gulf Coast. The Colonels' offense is the strength, scoring 77.2 points per game while shooting 41.1% from the field. Guard George Kimble III leads the attack with 18.1 points per game while shooting 84.7% from the free-throw line. The Colonels dominate the boards with 38.6 rebounds per game, spearheaded by forward Montavious Myrick, who averages 7.5 rebounds. Eastern Kentucky also moves the ball well, dishing out 12.6 assists per contest.

Defensively, Eastern Kentucky allows 76.6 points per game but compensates with strong pressure, averaging 9.1 steals per game. George Kimble III plays a big role in that, leading the team with 2.8 steals per contest. Rim protection is better than Austin Peay's, as Yvens Paul contributes 1.3 blocks per game. The Colonels must focus on limiting second-chance points, as Austin Peay capitalized on offensive rebounds in the last matchup to force overtime.

Eastern Kentucky has been the more consistent team, winning two straight and showing offensive balance. The Governors struggle to shoot efficiently and play suspect defense, which Eastern Kentucky can exploit. Expect the Colonels to control the rebounding battle and force turnovers to create transition opportunities. Final Score Prediction: Eastern Kentucky wins 81-72.