NCAAB: Iowa State vs. Cincinnati Predictions – Tuesday, Feb. 13

Cincinnati Bearcats guard Dan Skillings Jr. (0) rises to the basket as Houston Cougars guard Emanuel Sharp (21) defends in the second half of an NCAA college basketball game between the Houston Cougars and the Cincinnati Bearcats, Saturday, Feb. 10, 2024, at Fifth Third Arena in Cincinnati.
Image Credit: Kareem Elgazzar/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK

We have your Iowa State Cyclones vs. Cincinnati Bearcats prop betting and game preview needs covered as the Iowa State Cyclones hit the road to face the Cincinnati Bearcats.

The Cincinnati Bearcats (15-8) are set to host the No. 10 Iowa State Cyclones (18-5) in a gripping Big 12 showdown. With both teams eager to solidify their standings, this matchup promises to be a battle of wits and wills on the hardwood.

Iowa State Cyclones vs. Cincinnati Bearcats Odds Info

Moneyline: Iowa State Cyclones +105 (Bet365) / Cincinnati Bearcats -125 (Bet365)

Spread: -1.5 – Iowa State Cyclones -110 (Ceasars) / Cincinnati Bearcats -110 (Ceasars)

Total: 136.0 – -110 (Bet365) / -110 (Bet365)

Game Info

Date: Tuesday, Feb. 13

Time: 07:00 PM

Location: Fifth Third Arena – Cincinnati, OH

TV: ESPN2

Iowa State Cyclones Betting Trends

  • On the road, Iowa State Cyclones are 3 and 3 this season.
  • Against the spread this season, Iowa State Cyclones are 16 and 7.
  • Against the spread on the road, Iowa State Cyclones are 4 and 4.

Cincinnati Bearcats Betting Trends

  • At home, Cincinnati Bearcats are 12 and 3 this season.
  • Against the spread this season, Cincinnati Bearcats are 11 and 11.
  • Against the spread at home, Cincinnati Bearcats are 7 and 7.

Iowa State Cyclones vs. Cincinnati Bearcats Predictions

The Cincinnati Bearcats are entering this game with a strong home record of 12-3, but they’ve hit a snag with a two-game losing streak that they’re desperate to snap. The Bearcats, led by Dan Skillings Jr. who is averaging 12.2 points per game, and Viktor Lakhin, pulling down 7 rebounds per game, are looking to leverage their home-court advantage at the Fifth Third Arena. Cincinnati’s defense, which has been a cornerstone of their play, will need to step up against a Cyclones team that boasts a 47.6% field goal percentage, ranking them 45th in the nation.

The Iowa State Cyclones, on the other hand, are riding the momentum of a recent win and a strong overall season performance. With an impressive 14-0 home record, the Cyclones have shown some vulnerability on the road with a 3-3 record, which they’ll aim to improve in this matchup. Keshon Gilbert, leading the team with 13.9 points per game, and Tre King, with 5.2 rebounds per game, have been key players for the Cyclones. Iowa State’s offense, which averages 79 points per game, will test the Bearcats’ defense in what’s expected to be a high-energy contest.

This game is not just about offense, as both teams are known for their defensive prowess. Iowa State ranks 3rd in the nation in defense according to KenPom, which could pose a significant challenge for Cincinnati’s offense that averages 76.3 points per game. The battle between Iowa State’s Tamin Lipsey, who has been exceptional at the point guard position with 5.6 assists per game, and Cincinnati’s Day Day Thomas will be a key matchup to watch. As both teams vie for a victory to bolster their tournament resumes, this game could come down to which team can assert their style of play and execute under pressure.

Iowa State Cyclones vs. Cincinnati Bearcats Pick

The Cincinnati Bearcats have shown a strong ability to defend their home court with a 12-3 record, and despite their recent losses, they have the resilience and the defensive acumen to bounce back against a top-ranked opponent. The Bearcats’ defense, which is the driving force behind their success, will be pivotal in containing Iowa State’s efficient offense. With the game being played at Fifth Third Arena, the home crowd’s energy will undoubtedly provide an extra boost to the Bearcats, potentially disrupting the Cyclones’ rhythm. Additionally, Cincinnati’s balanced scoring attack, led by Dan Skillings Jr., could exploit any lapses in Iowa State’s defense, making the Bearcats a smart moneyline bet.

While Iowa State has been impressive this season, their road record of 3-3 suggests they are more vulnerable away from home. The Cyclones’ reliance on their top scorers could be tested against Cincinnati’s defense, which has been particularly effective at home. The Bearcats’ ability to slow down the game and control the boards could limit Iowa State’s scoring opportunities. Given the Bearcats’ need for a statement win to improve their tournament case and the Cyclones’ less dominant road performances, the Cincinnati Bearcats moneyline bet is the more compelling choice for this matchup.

The Pick: Cincinnati Bearcats -125. (Bet365)