The Saint Louis Billikens (6-1) travel to Southern Illinois to play the Salukis (5-3) in a game that will likely be low scoring. The game is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. ET on Wednesday, December 5, 2018.
Saint Louis Billikens at Southern Illinois Salukis Free Prediction
The Billikens come in on a high note after topping the Southeast Missouri State Redhawks in their last contest, 75-65. The Billikens had a much better free throw rate (0.352 vs. 0.138) and had a much better offensive rebounding percentage (30.6 vs. 17.6). Saint Louis was led by Javon Bess, who had 18 points and five rebounds.
In the Salukis’ last game, they fell to the No. 2 Kentucky Wildcats, 71-59. Kentucky’s rebounding was their largest strength. The Wildcats had more offensive rebounds (18 vs. seven), defensive rebounds (30 vs. 12) and total rebounds (48 vs. 19). With 16 points and seven rebounds, Southern Illinois’ Kavion Pippen had a good game.
The Billikens won the sole contest against the Salukis last season, 74-69. The Billikens’ turnover percentage was their largest advantage over the Salukis. Saint Louis had a rate of 10.8, while Southern Illinois posted a mark of 17.3.
Half-court execution will be of utmost importance when a pair of the country’s slowest-paced teams go head-to-head. Southern Illinois ranks 298th in possessions per game (67.4) and Saint Louis is 344th (65.0) dating back to last season.
Saint Louis vs. Southern Illinois Pick
Basketball Tip: SU Winner – Saint Louis, ATS Winner – Southern Illinois, O/U – Over
Click Here to Start Betting Today!
Notes
Betting Notes (2017-Present):
Saint Louis ranks 108th in rebounds per game (36.8) while Southern Illinois ranks 305th (32.7).
The Salukis rank 96th in assists per game (14.6) while the Billikens rank 256th (12.3).
Saint Louis ranks 29th in three pointers allowed per game (19.1) while Southern Illinois ranks 187th (22.2).
The Billikens rank 34th in blocks per game (4.7) while the Salukis rank 124th (3.5).
Saint Louis averages 6.3 steals per game, which ranks 156th in the country. Southern Illinois ranks 196th in steals allowed per game (6.5).
*****
