Southern Illinois vs Valparaiso Picks and Prediction – 1/29/2025

On Tuesday, the Southern Illinois Salukis (9-12) face off against the Valparaiso Beacons (10-11) at the Athletics-Recreation Center in Valparaiso, Indiana. Get ready for the college basketball season with our college basketball picks.

Valparaiso comes into this matchup on a four-game losing streak and has dropped four of their last five games. In their recent 81-71 defeat against Drake, Jefferson De La Cruz Monegro stood out for the Beacons by netting 16 points. This performance is set against the backdrop of Valparaiso's current season, where Cooper Schwieger emerges as the team’s top scorer, boasting an average of 14.3 points per game. Right behind him is Tyler Schmidt, contributing an average of 12.1 points. Moreover, Schwieger not only excels in scoring but also dominates the boards, leading the team with an average of 7.2 rebounds per game this season. The Beacons also rely on Darius DeAveiro and All Wright in the playmaking department, both averaging 2.6 assists per game. Defensively, Valparaiso has struggled recently, allowing opponents to score an average of 77.2 points over their last five games. As they attempt to halt a four-game losing skid, they face the challenge of avoiding an eighth conference loss this season. On the offensive end, Valparaiso averages 76.9 points per game overall.

Southern Illinois enters this game on a one-game losing streak, but has won three of their last five games. In a game that ended in a 74-64 defeat against Murray State, Ali Dibba was the standout performer for the Southern Illinois Salukis, contributing an impressive 21 points. This performance is consistent with Dibba's overall impact this season, as he is the leading scorer for the team, averaging 16.7 points per game. Following Dibba, Kennard Davis Jr. ranks as the second-highest scorer for the Salukis, maintaining an average of 15 points throughout the season. On the defensive end, Jarrett Hensley takes the lead for Southern Illinois when it comes to grabbing rebounds, pulling down an average of 5.4 rebounds per game. In terms of playmaking, Sheridan Sharp and Kennard Davis Jr. share the responsibility as the team’s top contributors in assists, each averaging 2.6 assists per game. Analyzing their recent form, the Salukis have managed to score an average of 76.8 points over their last five matches. Despite their current losing streak, the team is eager to turn things around and secure their fifth conference victory of the year. Overall, Southern Illinois has been scoring at a rate of 73.3 points per game this season.

This season has been challenging for both teams, with neither consistently performing at their best. Valparaiso, however, has shown a strong presence on their home court, securing victory in eight out of their twelve home games. When playing at home, their offense has been particularly impressive. Despite their home success, they've encountered difficulties in conference games, losing seven out of their ten matchups. Meanwhile, Southern Illinois has also faced tough times. They've managed to win only three out of eight games played on the road and have similarly struggled in conference play, with losses in six out of ten contests. Final Score Prediction, Southern Illinois Salukis win 75-74.