Match Analysis: Washington St Cougars vs Southern Utah Thunderbirds – Prediction
Match Details
- Date: November 19, 2025
- Time: 4:00 AM UTC
- Location: Beasley Coliseum, Pullman, Washington
Game Overview
The Washington State Cougars host the Southern Utah Thunderbirds in a college basketball matchup featuring two struggling teams early in the 2025-26 season. Washington State enters with a 1-3 record at home after suffering a 12-point loss to Washington, while Southern Utah arrives winless on the road with a 1-4 overall record and coming off a devastating 72-point loss to Gonzaga (122-50). Despite both teams' poor records, Washington State's home-court advantage and Southern Utah's terrible away performance make the Cougars significant favorites in this contest.
Key Factors to Consider
- Washington State (1-3): The Cougars are struggling defensively, allowing opponents to shoot 48.2% from the field. They average 75 points per game and commit 17.8 personal fouls per game. However, they maintain an 80.7% free throw shooting percentage and have won eight of their last nine games at Beasley Coliseum when playing with a rest advantage. Southern Utah (1-4): The Thunderbirds are significantly worse, averaging only 77.8 points per game and shooting just 42.9% from the floor with a concerning 25.2% three-point percentage. Their defense is catastrophic, allowing 48.8% shooting from opponents and conceding 38.6 rebounds per game. Southern Utah has lost each of its last eight games against non-conference opponents and all three road games this season.
- No recent head-to-head data is available in the search results for these two teams this season. However, historical trends show Washington State's strong home record at Beasley Coliseum.
- No specific injury information is provided in the available search results for either team.
- Southern Utah is on a 2-game losing streak with the most recent being a catastrophic 72-point road loss to Gonzaga, which could impact team morale and confidence. Washington State played at home against Washington just days prior and will have a rest advantage. The late-night 11 PM ET start time (4 AM UTC) is unusual but affects both teams equally. Southern Utah's road struggles (0-3 away from home) provide significant context for their disadvantage in this away matchup.
- Washington State needs to recover from their home loss to Washington and establish themselves as competitive at home. Southern Utah desperately needs any win to avoid starting the season 1-5 and needs to show they can compete on the road. Washington State's motivation is likely higher given their home-court advantage and recent loss, while Southern Utah faces significant pressure after the embarrassing Gonzaga defeat.
Odds and Predictions
| Category | Odds | Prediction | Confidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Moneyline | Washington State -1000 | Southern Utah +640 | Washington State Cougars Win | β β β β β 78% |
| Spread | Washington State -12.5 (-110) | Southern Utah +12.5 (-110) | Washington State Cougars -12.5 | β β β β β 76% |
| Over/under | Over 158.5 (-115) | Under 158.5 (-105) | Under 158.5 | β β β β β 72% |
Top EV Betting Odds
Discover the best value bets based on our EV analysis.
| Market | EV Pick |
|---|---|
| Moneyline | Washington St Cougars 573% |
| Spread | N/A |
| Over/Under | Under 158.5 13% |
π₯ Best Value Pick: Washington St Cougars at 573% EV | Suggested Bet Size: 89.6% (Kelly Criterion)
Predicted Outcome
Washington State will win and cover the spread convincingly. The Cougars' home-court advantage at Beasley Coliseum, combined with Southern Utah's abysmal road performance (0-3), defensive vulnerabilities, and recent 72-point loss, creates a strong case for a Washington State victory. Southern Utah's inability to score efficiently (77.8 PPG) and their defensive deficiencies (allowing 48.8% FG) make them vulnerable to Washington State's scoring. While both teams are poor, Washington State's home strength and Southern Utah's road weakness create a significant disparity. The Cougars should jump out early and establish control, limiting Southern Utah's opportunities and managing the game at their pace.
Predicted Score: Washington State 76, Southern Utah 61