Oklahoma State Cowboys vs SMU Mustangs Pick – 3/23/2025

The Oklahoma State Cowboys are set to face the SMU Mustangs in the second round of the National Invitation Tournament (NIT) on Sunday, March 23, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time. The game will take place at Moody Coliseum in Dallas, Texas, and will be broadcast on ESPN2. This matchup features two teams with contrasting seasons and styles, promising an intriguing contest for basketball enthusiasts and bettors alike.

Oklahoma State Cowboys vs. SMU Mustangs Game Preview

Oklahoma State enters the game with a 16-17 record, having secured a first-round NIT victory over Wichita State with an 89-79 scoreline. In that game, Bryce Thompson led the Cowboys with 23 points, while Brandon Newman contributed a double-double with 10 points and 12 rebounds. Despite their success at home, the Cowboys have struggled on the road, holding a 2-10 away record this season. Their defense has been a concern, allowing an average of 76.6 points per game, which ranks them outside the top 250 nationally. Offensively, they average 73.1 points per game, with Thompson leading the team at 12.2 points per game.

SMU, on the other hand, boasts a 24-10 record and is the top seed in their NIT bracket. They advanced to the second round by defeating Northern Iowa 73-63, despite the absence of their leading scorer, Kevin "Boopie" Miller, who averages 13.2 points and 5.5 assists per game. In Miller's absence, B.J. Edwards stepped up with a double-double, recording 16 points and 10 rebounds, along with seven assists and four steals. The Mustangs have been formidable at home, posting a 12-5 record, and their offense ranks 44th nationally, averaging 79.8 points per game. Defensively, they allow 70.9 points per game, placing them 146th in the nation.

Betting Insights

As of the latest available data, SMU is favored by 9.5 points, with an over/under set at 157.5 points. The moneyline odds are SMU -550 and Oklahoma State +400.

Key betting trends to consider:

• Oklahoma State is 9-4 against the spread (ATS) in their last 13 games.
• The total has gone over in 9 of Oklahoma State's last 13 games.
• SMU has hit the moneyline in 19 of its last 27 games, yielding a 7% return on investment.

Oklahoma State Cowboys vs. SMU Mustangs Prediction

Considering the current form and statistical analysis, SMU appears to have the upper hand in this matchup. Their efficient offense, combined with a solid home record, positions them well against an Oklahoma State team that has struggled defensively and on the road. The potential absence of Kevin Miller is a concern for SMU, but their depth, as demonstrated in the previous game, suggests they can compensate effectively.

Given these factors, the prediction leans towards SMU covering the spread, with the final score projected around 86-73 in favor of the Mustangs. Bettors might also consider the over on the total points, given both teams' recent trends and scoring capabilities. As always, it's important to monitor any last-minute developments, such as player injuries or lineup changes, before placing bets.

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