On Thursday, the Utah Valley Wolverines (13-6) face off against the California Baptist Lancers (9-9) at the Dale E. and Sarah Ann Fowler Events Center in Riverside, California. Get ready for the college basketball season with our college basketball picks.

California Baptist comes into this matchup on a one-game winning streak, but has dropped three of their last five games. In a tight 60-54 victory over Abilene Christian, Dominique Daniels Jr. made a significant contribution to the Lancers' success by scoring 17 points. This season, Daniels Jr. has been a standout performer for California Baptist, topping the team's scoring chart with an impressive average of 20.9 points per game. Following him in the scoring ranks is Kendal Coleman, who averages 11.1 points per game this season. Coleman not only contributes on the offensive end but also dominates the boards, leading the team with an average of 8.6 rebounds per game. Meanwhile, Adam Moussa plays a crucial role in setting up his teammates, leading the Lancers with an average of 4.7 assists per game. Defensively, in their last five matchups, California Baptist has allowed an average of 65.2 points. As they prepare to face Utah Valley at home in Riverside, the Lancers are eager to secure their third conference win of the season. Overall, California Baptist maintains a scoring average of 72.9 points per game across the season.

Utah Valley enters this game on an eight game winning streak. In their impressive 96-80 victory over Utah Tech, Tanner Toolson made a significant contribution by putting 18 points on the board for the Wolverines. Throughout the season, Dominick Nelson has been Utah Valley’s leading scorer, with a steady average of 14.9 points per game. Trailing him is Carter Welling, who holds the position of the team’s second-highest scorer, averaging 12.4 points per match. Welling also shines in rebounds, securing the top spot for Utah Valley with an average of 6.3 rebounds per game this season. When it comes to setting up plays, Trevan Leonhardt stands out with an impressive average of 5.2 assists per game. Across their last five games, Utah Valley has maintained a strong offensive performance, averaging 78.4 points. The team is on a remarkable winning streak, aiming for their ninth consecutive victory and sixth straight win in conference games. Overall, the Wolverines have been consistent in their offensive efforts, averaging 76.8 points per game throughout the season.

NBA Best Bets and Odds for January 2, 2025