Cincinnati vs Iowa State Picks and Prediction – 3/12/2025

Cincinnati enters this Big 12 Tournament matchup at 18-14 after a dominant 87-68 win over Oklahoma State. Before that, the Bearcats had struggled, losing three straight games, including a low-scoring 54-49 loss to Kansas State. Iowa State, ranked 12th nationally, is 23-8 and coming off a win. The Cyclones have been a top contender in the Big 12 all season and will look to play well in Kansas City. Slam dunk your bets with our College Basketball picks.

Cincinnati has relied on Jizzle James, who leads the team with 12.9 points per game while shooting 41.9% from the field. He also leads in assists at 3.7 per game. Dan Skillings Jr. and Day Day Thomas have been key contributors, but the Bearcats’ offense has been inconsistent, averaging 70.5 points per game on 45% shooting. 

Defensively, Cincinnati has been solid, allowing just 65.3 points per game while blocking 4.4 shots per contest. Aziz Bandaogo leads the team in blocks at 1.5 per game, while Daniel Mitchell anchors the rebounding effort with 6.5 boards per game.

Iowa State has been one of the most balanced teams in the Big 12, averaging 80.1 points per game while allowing just 67.5. Curtis Jones leads the team in scoring at 17.0 points per game, shooting 42.1% from the field and 83.7% from the free-throw line. Keshon Gilbert leads with 4.2 assists per game, setting up an efficient offense that shoots 47.5% as a team.

 Defensively, the Cyclones excel at forcing turnovers, averaging 9.6 steals per game, led by Jelani Jefferson’s 2.1 per game. They also control the glass well, with Jefferson pulling down 7.5 rebounds per game.

Iowa State’s ability to create turnovers and control the pace gives them the edge. The Cyclones are the better shooting team at 47.5% compared to Cincinnati’s 45%, and 9.6 steals per game should disrupt the Bearcats’ already inconsistent offense. Cincinnati’s defense is strong, but Iowa State’s strong shooting will prove too much. Final Score Prediction: Iowa State wins 76-65.