In their final home game of the season, the Illinois State Redbirds (9-19, 4-12 MVC) host the Bradley Braves (19-10, 10-6 MVC) at Redbird Arena. The game starts at 7 p.m. ET on Wednesday, February 26, 2020, and will air on CBS Sports Network.
Bradley Braves at Illinois State Redbirds ATS Prediction
The Braves are hoping for a better outcome after their 90-78 loss to the Valparaiso Crusaders in their last game. Valparaiso’s 0.222 free throw rate was their biggest strength over Bradley, who had a mark of 0.116. The Crusaders’ mark was above their season average of 0.194, while the Braves’ was below their season average of 0.243. Elijah Childs was the top scorer from either team with 19 points on 6-for-14 shooting.
In the Redbirds’ last game, they defeated the Drake Bulldogs, 57-53. The Redbirds had a better free throw rate (0.078 vs. 0.040) and held the Bulldogs to an offensive rebounding percentage of 9.4 (below their season average of 24.6). Keith Fisher III was the top scorer from either team with 21 points on 8-for-12 shooting from the field.
This is the second game of the season between these two squads. In the first, Nate Kennell scored a game-high 18 points and the Braves beat the Redbirds 75-63. He also put up six rebounds. The Braves knocked down 13 of their 15 free throws (86.7 percent) and had a better turnover percentage (10.9 vs. 13.4).
Half-court execution will be of utmost importance when two of the nation’s slowest-paced teams square off. Illinois State currently ranks 258th in possessions per game (67.5) and Bradley is 293rd (66.9).
Bradley Braves at Illinois State Redbirds Odds Pick
Free Prediction: ATS Winner – Illinois State, O/U – Under
Betting Trends
Bradley ranks 47th in rebounds per game (38.7) while Illinois State ranks 248th (33.0).
The Redbirds average 23.0 three pointers per game, which ranks 113th in the nation. The Braves rank 269th in three pointers allowed per game (25.1).
Illinois State ranks 167th in steals per game (5.8) while Bradley ranks 235th (4.7).
The Braves average 13.5 assists per game, which ranks 113th in the country. The Redbirds rank 164th in assists allowed per game (13.1).
Illinois State ranks 36th in blocks allowed per game (2.6) while Bradley ranks 63rd (2.9).
The Braves’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 3.2, down from 5.8 for the season.
During their last five games, the Redbirds have scored an average of 65.0 points per game (1.4 above their season average) and allowed an average of 68.0 points per game (0.3 above their season average).