Washington St. Cougars vs
Iowa HawkeyesPredictions & Preview

Iowa Hawkeyes Favored to Win Against Washington State Cougars in Vibrant Arena Showdown

The Iowa Hawkeyes are set to play against the Washington State Cougars at the Vibrant Arena in Moline, Illinois on Friday evening at 8:30 PM Eastern. Both teams come into the game with recent victories, as the Cougars defeated Idaho and the Hawkeyes handled South Dakota. Iowa is the favorite to win, with a betting line opening at -4 and remaining unchanged. Stay tuned for the Washington State vs. Iowa Prediction.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Cougars +157 | Hawkeyes -190
• Spread: Cougars +4 (-110) | Hawkeyes -4 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 168.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Iowa will win straight-up is 66%.

Washington St. vs Iowa Stats

Washington St. Cougars

The Washington State Cougars have established themselves as a strong offensive team with efficient scoring and balanced contributions from key players like Cedric Coward and Nate Calmese. Their focus on quick ball movement and spacing has led to a solid shooting percentage, with Coward standing out for his versatility and effectiveness on the court. Defensively, the team emphasizes disciplined play, combining perimeter pressure and strong rebounding to limit opponents' scoring opportunities. Their cohesive defensive structure has helped them hold opponents to low field-goal percentages and create transition opportunities through steals and shot-blocking. With a strong power ranking and solid offensive and defensive stats, Washington State is a formidable opponent capable of disrupting opposing teams and turning defense into scoring chances on the break.

Iowa Hawkeyes Analysis

The Iowa Hawkeyes offense is known for its fast-paced play and efficient scoring, led by key returners like Payton Sandfort. Sandfort, a senior forward, is a reliable three-point shooter and the team's leading scorer. The team focuses on transition play and ball movement to create open looks, particularly beyond the arc. Guard Brock Harding and forward Owen Freeman also contribute to the balanced offensive lineup. Defensively, the team has adopted a more physical, man-to-man approach under head coach Fran McCaffery, prioritizing pressuring ball handlers and forcing turnovers. Sandfort and Freeman provide strength in protecting the paint, but defensive consistency is an area for improvement. Overall, Iowa's depth and blend of physicality make them a consistent offensive threat and competitive team. In terms of rankings, Iowa is #38 for offense, scoring an average of 91.33 points per game, and #213 for defense, giving up an average of 72.67 points per game. The team has a record of 3-0 overall and 1-2 against the spread.

Iowa's Veteran Players and Strong Scoring Give Them Competitive Edge in Close Games

Iowa's proficiency in scoring, complemented by the seasoned players such as Sandfort, provides them with a competitive advantage in closely contested matches. Sandfort's reliable scoring, especially from long range, aids in sustaining offensive momentum for the Hawkeyes, while Freeman's proficiency in rebounding bolsters their capacity to restrict second-chance scoring opportunities for their rivals. With Iowa's quick-scoring capability and effective transition defense, they are optimally positioned to maintain a slight advantage, even in tightly contested games. Iowa is favored to cover the spread.

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