The Valparaiso Crusaders (15-14, 8-8 MVC) wrap up their home schedule at Athletics-Recreation Center against the Missouri State Bears (14-15, 8-8 MVC). The game starts at 8 p.m. ET on Tuesday, February 25, 2020.
Missouri State Bears at Valparaiso Crusaders Betting Odds
Both teams were victorious over their last opponent. The Crusaders defeated the Bradley Braves 90-78, while the Bears beat the Loyola Chicago Ramblers 74-62.
The Bears held the Ramblers to an offensive rebounding percentage of 11.1 (below their season average of 21.3). The Ramblers also had a turnover percentage of 24.2 (above their season average of 17.8). The Crusaders, on the other hand, made 12 of their 16 free throws (75.0 percent) and had an effective field goal percentage of 0.722 (above their season average of 0.500). Javon Freeman-Liberty had a good game for Valparaiso, contributing 18 points and seven rebounds. Missouri State rallied around Gaige Prim, who recorded 16 points and nine rebounds.
In their first matchup this season, Keandre Cook led the Bears to a 67-60 win. He was the game’s leading scorer with 27 points. Missouri State’s 0.316 free throw rate was their biggest strength over Valparaiso, who had a rate of 0.152.
It could be a tough game for Valparaiso on the offensive glass. The Crusaders rank 229th in offensive rebounding percentage (26.7 percent), while Missouri State ranks 16th in defensive rebounding percentage (77.1 percent).
Missouri State at Valparaiso Betting Pick
Basketball Tip: SU Winner – Valparaiso, ATS Winner – Valparaiso, O/U – Under
Betting Notes:
- Valparaiso ranks 29th in assists per game (15.1) while Missouri State ranks 207th (11.8).
- The Crusaders average 24.5 three pointers per game, which ranks 75th in the NCAA. The Bears rank 125th in three pointers allowed per game (21.1).
- The Bears rank 26th in rebounds allowed per game (31.3) while the Crusaders rank 158th (35.4).
- Valparaiso ranks 35th in steals per game (8.0) while Missouri State ranks 140th (6.2).
Bettings Trends:
- During their last five games, the Crusaders have scored an average of 70.6 points per game (1.7 below their season average) and allowed an average of 65.0 points per game (6.0 below their season average).
- The Bears’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 10.8, up from 2.1 for the season.