Southern Illinois Salukis Poised for Victory Against Valparaiso Beacons in Missouri Valley Conference Showdown
In an upcoming Missouri Valley Conference game, the Valparaiso Beacons will be facing off against the Southern Illinois Salukis at Banterra Center. The Beacons, currently
Game outlook
In an upcoming Missouri Valley Conference game, the Valparaiso Beacons will be facing off against the Southern Illinois Salukis at Banterra Center. The Beacons, currently positioned low in the conference with a 6-13 (2-6) record, will be taking on the Salukis, who have a more favorable 12-7 (4-4) tally. The game, scheduled for January 24th at 8:00 PM ET, promises an interesting clash between two teams with contrasting styles and aspirations. Valpo will be looking to overcome their struggles, while Southern Illinois aims to improve their standing in the conference. In terms of betting, Wichita St. opens as the favorite with a -3.5 spread, which has remained unchanged.
Betting Odds
Moneyline: Pirates +135 | Shockers -160
Spread: Pirates +3.5 (-110) | Shockers -3.5 (-110)
Total: Over/Under 145.5 (-110)
Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Wichita St. will win straight-up is 62%.
East Carolina Pirates
Despite their struggling record of 6-13 (2-6) in the Missouri Valley, the Valparaiso Beacons should not be underestimated. Their recent 84-77 home victory against UIC showcases their ability to surprise. While their offense averages 67.9 points per game, indicating a challenge in scoring, they make up for it with resilience. Consistent shooting is an area for improvement, with field goal and three-point percentages standing at 40.7 and 32.0, respectively. However, their free-throw line performance is commendable at 72.9%. Rebounding is another aspect that could be improved upon, averaging 35.1 per game. Defensively, Valpo allows 71.7 points per game, but maintains a decent hold on opposing shooters with a 44.7 field goal percentage allowed. Their three-point defense needs tightening, as they allow 34.2%. Isaiah Stafford leads the team in scoring with 16.7 points per game, while Darius DeAveiro contributes with 5.4 assists per game. Jaxon Edwards stands out with 5.7 rebounds per game and 1.2 blocks per game, along with Stafford's 1.6 steals per game, adding a defensive edge to the team's gameplay. As for East Carolina, they are ranked 264 in offense, averaging 70.89 points per game. Defensively, they are ranked 112, allowing an average of 69.05 points per game against them. With a 9-10 (8-9-1 ATS) record this season, East Carolina hits an average of 42.98% of their field goals, 69.42% of free throws, and 31.09% of three-pointers. They average 35.79 rebounds per game, 11.58 offensive assists, and 11.00 turnovers per game. Defensively, the Pirates allow opponents to shoot 43.38% on field goals and 73.56% on free throws, while allowing 30.84% on three-pointers. They average 34.53 defensive rebounds per game, 12.42 defensive assists, and 12.74 turnovers per game.