Louisiana-Monroe Warhawks vs Southern Miss Golden Eagles Picks and Predictions January 1st 2026

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Southern Miss Golden Eagles vs Louisiana-Monroe Warhawks Betting Preview

Southern Miss opens Sun Belt play on the road Thursday night, heading to Fant-Ewing Coliseum to face Louisiana-Monroe. The Golden Eagles sit at 7-7 and remain heavily split by venue, dominant at home but struggling away. Louisiana-Monroe enters at 3-11, yet far more competitive on its own floor. You can monitor live pricing and market movement on the NCAA basketball odds page.

Southern Miss comes off a lopsided loss at LSU, where foul trouble and defensive lapses dictated the game early. Louisiana-Monroe nearly upset Kansas State last time out, showing offensive balance and shot-making that often travels well into conference play.

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Line Movement and Odds

Southern Miss opened as a road favorite around −7.5, with the total set at 155.5. Early action has leaned slightly toward the Golden Eagles, largely due to Louisiana-Monroe’s defensive numbers and overall record.

The total sits high for a conference opener. Southern Miss prefers a slower tempo, while Louisiana-Monroe pushes pace more aggressively. For additional matchup context across the slate, visit the college basketball previews page.

Matchup Breakdown

Southern Miss relies on structure and free-throw efficiency. The Golden Eagles rank well nationally in made free throws per game, which becomes valuable in road conference spots. Tylik Weeks and Curt Lewis anchor the offense, with Israel Hart providing secondary scoring and defensive length.

Louisiana-Monroe counters with shot volume and spacing. Lavell Brodnex and Krystian Lewis combined for 46 points against Kansas State, and MJ Russell adds another consistent perimeter threat. The Warhawks average more than eight made three-pointers per game and generate trips to the line at a solid rate.

If Southern Miss controls pace and limits transition threes, the matchup tilts their way. If Louisiana-Monroe dictates tempo, the underdog stays live. For comparisons against other projections, the free college basketball picks page provides added perspective.

Injuries and Conditions

Southern Miss

No major rotation changes reported entering conference play.
Full details: Southern Miss team page

Louisiana-Monroe

No significant absences reported.
Full details: Louisiana-Monroe team page

Indoor matchup, no external conditions.

Best Bets and Prediction

Southern Miss brings the more disciplined defensive approach and should benefit from Louisiana-Monroe’s tendency to give up efficient looks inside. The Warhawks compete offensively, but sustained stops remain an issue.

Projected Score: Southern Miss 80, Louisiana-Monroe 70
Best Bet: Southern Miss −7.5
Secondary Lean: Under 155.5, with Southern Miss likely slowing possessions

For bankroll structure and situational betting angles, review the Bettors Handbook.

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Conference edges come from pace and discipline.gesting the under is a safer choice.