Weber State Wildcats vs Portland State Vikings Picks and Predictions January 1st 2026

Portland State Vikings vs Weber State Wildcats Betting Preview

Big Sky conference play tips off Thursday afternoon in Ogden, where Weber State hosts Portland State at the Dee Events Center. Both teams enter with similar records and clear home-road splits. Portland State is 6-5 overall but has struggled away from home, while Weber State sits at 6-7 and has leaned heavily on home-court success. You can track real-time pricing and movement on the NCAA basketball odds page.

Portland State is coming off a tight two-point loss to Tulane, a game that showed their offensive ceiling but also highlighted late-game execution issues. Weber State, meanwhile, enters with momentum after a blowout win that showcased efficient shooting and depth.

Line Movement and Odds

Weber State opened as a short home favorite at −1.5, reflecting venue advantage more than separation in overall quality. The total of 150.5 is elevated, driven by both teams ranking near the top of the Big Sky in scoring efficiency.

Early action has been balanced, with Portland State drawing interest due to offensive consistency, while Weber State money is tied to home splits. For additional slate context, visit the college basketball previews page.

Matchup Breakdown

Portland State’s strength is shot-making. The Vikings shoot 48 percent from the field and average more than 80 points per game. Terri Miller Jr. and Jaylin Henderson give them two reliable scoring options who can create late in the shot clock. If Portland State keeps turnovers in check, they stay competitive deep into this one.

Weber State counters with pace and balance. The Wildcats average 83.5 points per game and are far more efficient at home. Jace Whiting controls tempo, while Tijan Saine Jr. and Duce Paschal provide scoring across multiple positions. Weber State’s ability to score early often forces opponents to chase.

For comparisons against other model projections, the free college basketball picks page helps frame the number.

Injuries and Conditions

Portland State

No major injuries reported entering conference play.
Full details: Portland State team page

Weber State

No significant absences reported.
Full details: Weber State team page

Indoor matchup, no external conditions.

Best Bets and Prediction

This profiles as a tight, offense-driven conference opener. Weber State’s home efficiency and scoring balance give them a slight edge, but Portland State’s shooting keeps this within one possession late.

Projected Score: Weber State 82, Portland State 79
Best Bet: Weber State −1.5
Secondary Lean: Over 150.5, given offensive efficiency on both sides

For situational betting discipline and pace-based angles, review the Bettors Handbook.

ScoresAndStats Handicappers and Picks

Compare expert performance on the Handicapper Leaderboard and find premium analysis inside Service Plays.

Conference games reward clean execution.