McNeese State vs Nicholls State Picks and Prediction – 2/1/2025

McNeese Cowboys (16-5, 10-0) enter this matchup on an 11-game winning streak, dominating the conference with an undefeated record. They narrowly escaped Texas A&M-Corpus Christi with a 74-73 win in the last game, showing toughness in tight situations. Offensively, McNeese is averaging 78.0 points per game while shooting an efficient 48.1% from the field. Javohn Garcia leads the scoring with 13.4 points per game, supported by Quadir Copeland’s 4.0 assists per game, keeping the offense fluid. Rebounding is slightly below average at 36.0 per game, but the ability to move the ball effectively with 14.0 assists helps them find high-percentage shots. Slam dunk your bets with our College Basketball picks.

Defensively, the Cowboys have been one of the best teams in the conference, allowing only 64.8 points per game. Joe Charles anchors the defense, averaging 6.6 rebounds and 1.6 steals per game, creating extra possessions for his team. The team forces an impressive 9.6 steals per game, leading to fast-break opportunities. Despite a strong defense, rim protection is an area of concern, as they only average 3.1 blocks per game. Christian Shumate, who leads with 1.3 blocks, will need to step up against a Nicholls team that has multiple scoring threats.

Nicholls Colonels (12-9, 6-4) are coming off a solid 82-75 road win against UTRGV, bouncing back after dropping two straight games. The Colonels are scoring 74.1 points per game but are shooting just 42.8% from the field, well below McNeese’s efficiency. Byron Ireland is the team's top scorer at 13.7 points per game, but his 41.9% shooting shows inconsistency. Rebounding has been a strength, as Nicholls averages 37.8 per game, slightly better than McNeese. Ireland also leads the team with 3.2 assists per game, though overall ball movement (11.6 assists per game) could be improved.

Defensively, Nicholls allows 69.9 points per game, which is not terrible, but a concern against a high-powered McNeese offense. They do have an advantage in rim protection, averaging 4.3 blocks per game, led by Jamal West Jr. with 1.7. Steals are another key factor, with the Colonels forcing 8.5 per game, though they will need to be more aggressive against a disciplined McNeese squad. 

McNeese has been dominant in conference play and shows no signs of slowing down. The defensive pressure and offensive strengths give them a clear edge over Nicholls. The Colonels have been inconsistent on both ends and struggles shooting the ball will hurt them against an aggressive McNeese defense. Final Score Prediction: McNeese Cowboys wins and covers 79-68.