Illinois-Chicago vs Missouri State Picks and Prediction – 1/8/2025

On Tuesday, the IUC Flames (9-5) face off against the Missouri State Bears (7-8) at Great Southern Bank Arena in Springfield, Missouri. Get ready for the college basketball season with our college basketball picks.

Missouri State comes into this matchup on a three-game losing streak and has dropped three of their last five games. In their 69-60 defeat against Bradley, Vincent Brady II emerged as the standout performer for the Missouri State Bears, contributing an impressive 29 points. Throughout the season, however, it's been Dez White who has consistently led the team in scoring, maintaining an average of 17.5 points per game. Right behind him, Vincent Brady II has proven to be a valuable asset for the team, averaging 13.3 points per game. On the boards, Michael Osei-Bonsu has been a key figure, grabbing an average of 7.9 rebounds each game, thus leading the team in this category. Dez White also shines in playmaking, topping the assists chart for the Bears with an average of 2.8 assists per game. Defensively, Missouri State has been holding their opponents to an average of 60.8 points over their last five outings. Despite this, they are eager to end their current skid of two consecutive losses and secure their first victory in the conference. Presently, the Bears are averaging 72.3 points per game across the season, showcasing their offensive capabilities.

IUC enters this game on a one-game losing streak, but has won four of their last five games. In a closely contested game against Belmont, which resulted in a 92-87 defeat, Ahmad Henderson II made a significant contribution to the Flames by scoring 18 points. This season, Javon Jackson has been the top scorer for IUC, boasting an average of 12.6 points per game. Following closely is Sasa Ciani, who has been the team's second-highest scorer by maintaining an average of 12.1 points per game so far this season. In addition to his scoring prowess, Ciani has excelled in rebounding, leading the team with an impressive average of 9.4 rebounds per game. On the playmaking front, Ahmad Henderson II shines by leading the Flames in assists, averaging 3.7 assists this season. Over their last five games, IUC has been averaging 78 points per game. Eager to break their current losing streak, the Flames are preparing to face the struggling Missouri State Bears in Springfield. Across the entire season, IUC has maintained an average of 79.5 points per game, underscoring their offensive capabilities.

IUC has demonstrated strong performance in away games, securing victories in three out of their last five road matches. Meanwhile, Missouri State has been formidable at home, achieving success in five out of their last seven games played on their own turf. This season, IUC has showcased a more effective and consistent offensive strategy. On the other hand, Missouri State is aiming to break their conference losing streak, as they have yet to secure a win in their last five conference games. Final Score Prediction, Missouri State Bears win and cover, 69-62.