Iowa State Cyclones vs BYU Cougars Prediction – 3/13/2025

The Iowa State Cyclones and the BYU Cougars are set to face off in a highly anticipated Big 12 Tournament quarterfinal game on Thursday, March 13, 2025, at 12:30 p.m. Eastern Time at the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, Missouri. This matchup features two teams with impressive seasons, each aiming to advance further in the tournament.

Iowa State Cyclones vs. BYU Cougars Game Preview

The Iowa State Cyclones enter this contest with a 24-8 overall record and a 13-7 mark in Big 12 play. They secured their spot in the quarterfinals by defeating Cincinnati 76-56 in the previous round. In that game, Joshua Jefferson led the team with 19 points and eight rebounds, while Tamin Lipsey contributed 16 points and three assists. The Cyclones have been strong offensively, averaging 80.1 points per game, and defensively, allowing 67.5 points per game. Key players include Curtis Jones, averaging 17.0 points per game, and Keshon Gilbert, contributing 13.8 points and 4.3 assists per game.

The BYU Cougars boast a 23-8 overall record and a 14-6 conference record. They earned a double-bye into the quarterfinals and are riding an eight-game winning streak. In their most recent outing, they defeated Utah 85-74, with Dawson Baker scoring 15 points and Richie Saunders adding 14 points and five rebounds. The Cougars have been potent offensively, averaging 81.4 points per game, and have allowed 70.3 points per game defensively. Richie Saunders leads the team with 16.0 points per game, while Egor Demin adds 10.8 points and 5.6 assists per game.

Betting Insights

As of the latest available information, the betting odds for this matchup are as follows:

• Point Spread: Iowa State favored by 2.5 points
• Over/Under: 147.5 points

These odds suggest a closely contested game, with Iowa State holding a slight edge. Bettors should consider the following factors:

• Recent Performance: BYU has won eight consecutive games, including a double-overtime victory over Iowa State on March 4, 2025, where they overcame a 21-point deficit to win 88-85.
• Injury Concerns: Iowa State is dealing with injuries sustained in their recent game against Cincinnati, which could impact their performance.
• Defensive Strengths: Iowa State leads the nation in defensive turnover percentage, with Tamin Lipsey averaging 3.4 steals per game, making their defense particularly disruptive.

Iowa State Cyclones vs. BYU Cougars Prediction

Considering BYU's current winning streak and their recent victory over Iowa State, they appear to have the momentum heading into this matchup. Iowa State's defensive prowess is notable, but the injuries they are managing could hinder their effectiveness. Given these factors, the prediction leans towards BYU covering the spread and potentially securing a victory in this closely contested game.