South Dakota State vs St. Thomas (MN) Picks and Prediction – 1/9/2025

The South Dakota State Jackrabbits (10-6, 1-0 Summit League) travel to face the St. Thomas-Minnesota Tommies (12-5, 2-0 Summit League) in a key Summit League matchup. South Dakota State is coming off a dominant 91-70 win over Denver, while St. Thomas-Minnesota secured back-to-back road victories over North Dakota and North Dakota State to remain unbeaten in conference play. Slam dunk your bets with our College Basketball picks.

South Dakota State has leaned on Oscar Cluff, who averages 17.9 points per game on 69.4% shooting and leads the team with 11.7 rebounds. The Jackrabbits are efficient offensively, scoring 78.7 points per game while shooting 47.0% from the field. Kalen Garry contributes 2.7 assists per game, adding balance to the offense. The team also averages 40.1 rebounds, helping control the glass and create second-chance opportunities.

Defensively, the Jackrabbits allow 71.0 points per game, but they force 5.2 steals per contest, disrupting opposing offenses. They also average 3.0 blocks, anchored by Cluff in the paint. Recent struggles against top-tier opponents like Alabama and Colorado exposed vulnerabilities in defending against faster-paced offenses, but the team showed toughness in bouncing back against Denver.

St. Thomas-Minnesota boasts a potent offense, averaging 85.5 points per game on an impressive 49.9% shooting percentage. Miles Barnstable leads the team with 14.6 points per game and an 87.8% free throw rate. The Tommies also spread the ball effectively, averaging 15.8 assists per game, making them difficult to defend. The ability to shoot and distribute keeps opponents scrambling.

On defense, the Tommies give up 73.8 points per game, but 7.8 steals highlight an aggressive approach that forces turnovers. Kendall Blue leads with 4.2 rebounds per game, though rebounding has been a relative weakness for St. Thomas, pulling down just 33.1 per contest. Defensive discipline and perimeter defense will be key as they look to slow South Dakota State’s efficient attack.

St. Thomas-Minnesota’s efficient offense and strong ball movement provide an edge at home. While South Dakota State has the size advantage, the Tommies’ ability to create turnovers and score efficiently should keep them in control. Expect a high-scoring affair, but St. Thomas-Minnesota’s consistency earns the victory. Final Score Prediction: St. Thomas-Minnesota Tommies win and covers 84-78.