Sacramento State Hornets vs Idaho Vandals Betting Preview
The Sacramento State Hornets look to build on recent momentum, while the Idaho Vandals aim to protect their home floor in this Big Sky clash at ICCU Arena.
Line Movement and Odds
Idaho enters as the favorite, but Sacramento State’s free-throw efficiency makes this line worth monitoring. Current market:
- Sacramento State Spread: +9.5 (-111)
- Idaho Spread: -9.5 (-114)
- Sacramento State MoneyLine: +371
- Idaho MoneyLine: -534
- Total: 158.5 (-110)
Check the College Basketball Odds page for live updates and sharper angles before tip-off.
Matchup Breakdown
Sacramento State Outlook
The Hornets average 78.2 points per game, with Prophet Johnson, Mikey Williams, and Mark Lavrenov leading the offense. Johnson’s 30 points vs Northern Colorado highlighted his dominance, while Lavrenov’s 17 points and 17 rebounds showcased his impact. Sacramento State’s shooting efficiency (30th nationally in free throws made; 75.7% FT) underscores their strengths. Their 10-9 record and ability to win close contests highlight resilience, making them a dangerous underdog.
Idaho Outlook
The Vandals average 80.4 points per game, with Biko Johnson, Jackson Rasmussen, and Kolton Mitchell driving production. Johnson’s 26 points vs Weber State highlighted his consistency, while Rasmussen’s 16 points showcased his reliability. Idaho’s shooting efficiency (54.0% effective FG, 102nd nationally; 10.6 threes per game, 39th nationally; 6-1 home record) underscores their strengths. Their 11-8 record and ability to dominate at ICCU Arena highlight resilience, making them tough at home.
Key Factors
This matchup may hinge on free throws and perimeter shooting. Sacramento State thrives on drawing fouls and converting at the line, while Idaho must rely on Johnson’s offensive firepower and home-court energy to tilt the game. Execution in the final minutes will likely decide the margin.
Injuries / Availability
Sacramento State: The Hornets report no fresh injury concerns heading into Thursday’s contest.
Idaho: The Vandals are expected to have their full rotation available.
Environment
ICCU Arena has been a reliable venue for Idaho, where they’ve gone 6-1 this season. Sacramento State enters with confidence from strong offensive performances, making this a clash of home strength vs road-tested resilience.
Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Final Score: Idaho 82, Sacramento State 74
- Sacramento State +9.5 → Best Bet. Their free-throw efficiency and balanced scoring suggest they can stay within the number.
- Under 158.5 → Total play. Both teams’ slower pace points toward a combined score below the line.
Idaho’s depth and shooting rhythm should carry them to victory, while Sacramento State’s offense keeps the spread in play. Expect a moderately high-scoring contest with totals landing just under the posted number.
Handicappers and Service Plays
Big Sky games often create unique betting opportunities. Our Best Handicappers spotlight experts who consistently read market trends, while the Leaderboard highlights who’s riding hot streaks. Premium insights in Buy Picks provide deeper reasoning behind each wager. For contests like Sacramento State vs Idaho, expert perspectives can help identify sharp angles in spreads and totals.


