The Bradley Braves (8-10, 0-5 MVC) will try to put an end to their five-game losing streak when they clash against the Southern Illinois Salukis (9-9, 2-3 MVC) at SIU Arena. The game starts at 4 p.m. ET on Sunday, January 20, 2019, and will air on ESPNU.
Bradley Braves vs. Southern Illinois Salukis ATS Prediction
The last time the Braves played, they were defeated by the Drake Bulldogs, 69-52. Drake made nine of their 22 three pointers (40.9 percent). Bradley, on the other hand, was just 3-15 (20.0 percent). Elijah Childs was Bradley’s high scorer with 15 points on 7-for-16 shooting.
The Salukis lost a close one to the Illinois State Redbirds in their last contest, 59-58. Illinois State’s turnover percentage was their largest advantage over Southern Illinois. The Redbirds posted a mark of 18.3 (weaker than their season average of 15.9), while the Salukis had a rate of 23.9 (above their season average of 20.1). Armon Fletcher put together a good game for Southern Illinois, leading both teams in scoring with 17 points on 7-for-15 shooting.
After splitting two games last season, this will be the first matchup of the year between these two teams. The Salukis won the last game 74-57. Southern Illinois’ free throw rate was their biggest strength over Bradley. The Salukis had a rate of 0.304, while the Braves posted a mark of 0.145.
Half-court execution will be at a premium when two of the nation’s slowest-paced teams square off. Southern Illinois currently ranks 315th in possessions per game (66.5) and Bradley is 284th (67.7). Moreover, the Braves are among the nation’s elite at getting to the line, ranking 53rd in free throw attempt (FTA) rate (0.279). The Salukis, meanwhile, rank 15th at keeping opponents off the charity stripe with an opponents’ FTA rate of 0.167.
Bradley Braves at Southern Illinois Salukis Pick
Free College Basketball Pick: SU Winner – Southern Illinois, ATS Winner – Southern Illinois, O/U – Under
Click Here to Start Betting Today!
Notes
Betting Notes:
Bradley ranks 84th in three pointers allowed per game (21.2) while Southern Illinois ranks 236th (26.1).
The Salukis average 14.8 assists per game, which ranks 75th in the NCAA. The Braves rank 126th in assists allowed per game (13.1).
Bradley ranks 32nd in blocks allowed per game (2.6) while Southern Illinois ranks 78th (3.2).
The Salukis rank 203rd in rebounds per game (34.3) while the Braves rank 228th (33.6).
Bradley averages 6.9 steals per game, which ranks 90th in the country. Southern Illinois ranks 95th in steals allowed per game (6.4).
Bettings Trends:
The Braves’ average margin of defeat in their last five games has been 11.2, up from 0.8 for the season.
During their last five games, the Salukis have scored an average of 64.4 points per game (4.0 below their season average) and allowed an average of 65.4 points per game (2.3 below their season average).
+++++
