Southern Illinois vs Evansville Picks and Prediction – 2/6/2025

Southern Illinois heads to Evansville looking to bounce back after a 75-65 loss to Drake. The Salukis sit at 10-13 overall and 5-7 in Missouri Valley Conference play. Evansville, riding a three-game winning streak, improved to 9-14 overall and 6-6 in the MVC after an 80-75 road win over Belmont. Slam dunk your bets with our College Basketball picks.

Southern Illinois leans on leading scorer Ali Dibba, who averages 16.7 points while shooting 45.9% from the field. The offense produces 73.2 points per game but struggles with consistency. The Salukis shoot a respectable 45.9% from the field and distribute the ball well with 14.3 assists per game. Jarrett Hensley adds interior presence with 5.3 rebounds per contest, but Southern Illinois could use more production from its supporting cast.

Defensively, Southern Illinois allows 74.2 points per game and will need to tighten up against Evansville’s balanced attack. The team averages 6.8 steals per game, with Dibba leading that category at 1.6 per contest. Hensley leads the team in blocks but only averages 0.9 per game, which means the Salukis lack rim protection. Defensive lapses have led to struggles, especially against teams that can space the floor.

Evansville’s offense has been solid during its three-game win streak, scoring at least 78 points in each victory. The Purple Aces are led by Tayshawn Comer, who averages 14.9 points and 4.0 assists per game. The team shoots 43.4% from the field, slightly below Southern Illinois, but makes up for it with aggressive rebounding from Tanner Cuff, who grabs 6.9 boards per game.

Defensively, Evansville gives up 70.3 points per game but has improved lately, holding opponents to under 75 points in the last three outings. The shot-blocking presence of Connor Turnbull, who averages 1.8 per game, helps protect the paint. The Purple Aces also generate 6.4 steals per contest, which could play a key role in disrupting Southern Illinois’ attack.

Evansville is playing its best basketball of the season and holds the edge with a home-court advantage. Southern Illinois has struggled defensively, and Evansville's rebounding could make a difference. Expect a competitive game, but the Purple Aces' recent form gives them the edge. Final Score Prediction: Evansville wins 74-70.