Western Kentucky Favored to Win Against Florida International in Bluegrass State Showdown

Game outlook

In a highly anticipated match, two basketball teams will face off in the Bluegrass State. Florida International, coming off a 78-69 road loss to Liberty, will be looking to rebound and secure a win. Western Kentucky, who suffered a 93-87 defeat against UTEP, will aim to bounce back as well. The Hilltoppers currently hold a significant advantage in the all-time series at 39-11, but the Golden Panthers emerged victorious in their most recent encounter. Despite this, Louisiana Tech is considered the betting favorite with an opening line of -10.5, which has remained unchanged.

Betting Odds

Moneyline: Miners +425 | Bulldogs -595

Spread: Miners +10.5 (-110) | Bulldogs -10.5 (-110)

Total: Over/Under 136.5 (-110)

Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Louisiana Tech will win straight-up is 86%.

UTEP Miners

Florida International recently had their two-game win streak come to an end with a loss to Liberty. This loss dropped their record to 7-12 on the season and they currently hold a 2-2 conference record, tied for fourth in Conference USA. In the game against Liberty, Florida International trailed for most of the game and could not mount a comeback. They shot 47.5% from the field, including nine of 26 from three-point range, and were outrebounded 37-30. Javaunte Hawkins was the leading scorer for the Panthers with 24 points in the loss. Overall, Florida International averages 76.3 points per game, ranking them 134th in the nation in scoring offense. They also collect 32.9 rebounds per game and dish out 15.4 assists per game. Defensively, they give up an average of 75.7 points per game, placing them 282nd in scoring defense. Hawkins is their leading scorer, averaging 13.3 points per game, while Arturo Dean is the only other player averaging in double figures with 12.3 points per game. The team has a number of solid role players contributing as well. Florida International shoots 45.2% from the field and 34.2% from beyond the arc. However, they have struggled from the free throw line, shooting just 65.7%. UTEP, on the other hand, has a power ranking of 60 and is ranked 153rd in offense, averaging 75.53 points per game. Defensively, they allow an average of 69.84 points per game and are ranked 130th in that category. Their record for the season is 11-8 with a 4-11-1 against the spread record. Offensively, the Miners shoot 46.40% from the field and 69.58% from the free throw line. They make an average of 31.72% of their three-point attempts. They collect an average of 32.47 rebounds per game and have 13.58 offensive assists and 15.00 turnovers per game. Defensively, UTEP allows opponents to shoot 45.34% from the field and 72.27% from the free throw line. They allow an average of 31.16% of three-point attempts and collect 33.47 defensive rebounds per game. They average 11.00 defensive assists Javaunte HIM-kins 🎯🎯🎯🎯🎯 #PawsUp pic.twitter.com/uazcJj1DOr