Grand Canyon vs Utah Valley Picks and Prediction – 1/10/2025

The Grand Canyon Lopes (11-4, 1-0 Conference) take on the Utah Valley Wolverines (9-6, 1-0 Conference) in a pivotal WAC matchup on January 9th. Grand Canyon is riding a five-game win streak, including an 82-71 victory over Southern Utah, while Utah Valley has won four straight, most recently defeating Abilene Christian 64-53. Slam dunk your bets with our College Basketball picks.

Grand Canyon enters this contest averaging 79.8 points per game while allowing 69.5. Forward JaKobe Coles leads the scoring at 13.9 points per game, shooting 51.9% from the field and 81.0% from the free-throw line. Guard Tyon Grant-Foster is a standout on the boards, averaging 6.5 rebounds, while Ray Harrison sets up the offense with 3.3 assists per game. The Lopes shoot 43.0% from the field and average 38.5 rebounds, 13.8 assists, 4.4 blocks, and 10.2 steals. Offensively, they have demonstrated balance and consistency.

Defensively, Grand Canyon relies on active hands and quick rotations, as evidenced by 10.2 steals per game. Tyon Grant-Foster leads the defense with 2.0 steals and 1.4 blocks per game, making him a two-way threat. They’ll need to tighten up against Utah Valley’s efficient offense, which shoots 47.6% from the floor. The Lopes have been strong in transition defense, but limiting turnovers will be key to maintaining a defensive edge.

Utah Valley scores 75.5 points per game and allows 68.1, relying on efficient shooting and balanced playmaking. Dominick Nelson leads with 13.8 points, shooting 46.6% from the field. Carter Welling anchors the boards with 6.5 rebounds per game and adds defensive presence with 2.2 blocks per contest. Trevan Leonhardt distributes well, averaging 5.2 assists, which fuels Utah Valley’s offense.

Defensively, the Wolverines excel in rim protection, averaging 6.1 blocks per game. They also produce 7.1 steals, showcasing an ability to disrupt opposing offenses. The defensive strength will be tested against Grand Canyon’s scoring threats. Utah Valley’s rebounding, nearly matching Grand Canyon, will also play a pivotal role in limiting second-chance opportunities.

Grand Canyon’s balanced offense and defensive pressure give them the edge against Utah Valley. The Lopes’ ability to force turnovers and create fast-break opportunities could exploit the Wolverines’ occasional struggles with ball security. With strong scoring options and defensive versatility, expect Grand Canyon to maintain momentum and win this key conference matchup. Final Score Prediction: Grand Canyon Lopes wins 78-72.