Illinois State Redbirds vs Incarnate Word Cardinals Pick – 3/25/2025

The Illinois State Redbirds (20-14) are set to face the Incarnate Word Cardinals (19-16) on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. ET at the Ocean Center in Daytona Beach, Florida. This semifinal matchup in the Purple CBI tournament will determine who advances to the finals to face the winner of the Cleveland State vs. Florida Gulf Coast game. The game will be broadcast on ESPNU.

Illinois State Redbirds vs. Incarnate Word Cardinals Game Preview

Illinois State enters the game with a 20-14 record, having won three of their last five games. In their recent 78-70 victory over the Presbyterian Blue Hose, the Redbirds showcased an efficient offense, shooting 60.0% from the field and 31.6% from beyond the arc.

Offensively, the Redbirds average 75.5 points per game, shooting 47.8% from the floor and 37.5% from three-point range. They are led by Chase Walker, who contributes 14.9 points and 6.2 rebounds per game.

Defensively, Illinois State allows 72.6 points per game, with opponents shooting 46.0% from the field and 36.1% from three-point range.

Incarnate Word comes into the game with a 19-16 record, winning three of their last four games. They are coming off an 87-71 win against the Jacksonville Dolphins, despite being outrebounded 38-29.

The Cardinals average 72.9 points per game, shooting 46.5% from the field and 37.7% from beyond the arc. They have three players scoring at least 14.7 points per game, led by guard Davion Bailey with 16.5 points and 1.4 steals per game.

Defensively, Incarnate Word allows 70.6 points per game, with opponents shooting 46.3% from the field and 36.4% from three-point range.

Betting Insights

As of the latest available data, Illinois State is favored by 5.5 points, with an over/under set at 149.5 points.

Key betting trends include:

• Incarnate Word is 3-2 in their last five games against the spread.
• Incarnate Word is 10-7 in their road games against the spread.
• The totals have gone over in three of Incarnate Word's last five games.

Illinois State Redbirds vs. Incarnate Word Cardinals Prediction

Considering the statistical profiles and recent performances of both teams, Illinois State appears to have a slight edge. Their higher offensive output and efficient shooting percentages, combined with a slightly better defensive record, suggest they are well-positioned to secure a victory. Additionally, their recent win over Presbyterian demonstrated their ability to perform under tournament pressure.

Incarnate Word's recent form is commendable, particularly their offensive contributions from key players like Davion Bailey and Jalin Anderson. However, their defensive vulnerabilities, especially in allowing opponents to shoot effectively from the field and perimeter, could be exploited by Illinois State's proficient offense.

Given these factors, the prediction is that Illinois State will cover the spread and advance to the finals. Bettors might also consider the over on the total points, given both teams' tendencies to engage in high-scoring games.

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