Portland vs Oregon State Picks and Prediction – 12/31/2024

The Portland Pilots, sitting at 5-9 overall and 0-1 in conference play, face a tough road challenge against the Oregon State Beavers, who boast a 10-3 record and are yet to start conference play. Portland is coming off a 74-64 victory over Lafayette, but inconsistency has been a recurring theme, with losses in three of the last five games. Oregon State, on the other hand, suffered a 78-66 loss to Nebraska in the last outing but won four straight prior to that, showing strong form heading into this matchup. Slam dunk your bets with our College Basketball picks.

Portland’s offense has been led by forward Austin Rapp, averaging 13.8 points per game while shooting 43.3% from the field and 91.3% from the free-throw line. Rapp also leads the team in rebounds with 6.3 per game, giving the Pilots a solid inside presence. Guard Vukasin Masic has provided balance as the team’s top distributor, averaging 3.2 assists per game. Portland averages 72.1 points per game but has struggled defensively, allowing 78.3 points and ranking below average in field goal defense.

Defensively, Portland has struggled to contain opponents, giving up 43.8% shooting from the field and lacking a consistent shot-blocking presence with just 3.5 blocks per game. Guard Vincent Delano leads the team in steals with 1.1 per contest, but the Pilots’ inability to force turnovers and defend the perimeter remains a concern. 

Oregon State enters this matchup with confidence, averaging 75.9 points per game while allowing just 60.5. Forward Michael Rataj has been the key contributor, leading the team with 15.5 points and 8.7 rebounds per game while shooting an efficient 45.4% from the floor. Guard Damarco Minoris the playmaker, averaging 5.4 assists.

On defense, the Beavers have been dominant, limiting opponents to 60.5 points per game and holding them to just 47.8% shooting. Rataj also leads the team with 2.2 steals per game, creating turnovers that fuel transition opportunities. Oregon State’s size and depth give them a strong edge defensively, along with the ability to defend the three-point line and rebound effectively, winning battles on the glass by averaging 36.1 rebounds per game.

Oregon State’s balanced scoring and defensive strength make them the clear favorites in this matchup. Portland has struggled against quality opponents, and the Beavers’ ability to control the tempo, protect the paint, and capitalize on turnovers should be the difference. Final Score Prediction: Oregon State Beavers win but do not cover 78-62.