Tennessee State Tigers vs SIUE Cougars Betting Preview
The Tennessee State Tigers look to extend their winning form, while the SIUE Cougars aim to defend their home floor in this Ohio Valley clash at First Community Arena.
Line Movement and Odds
This matchup is nearly a pick’em, with both sides priced evenly. Current market:
- Tennessee State Spread: +1.5 (-114)
- SIUE Spread: -1.5 (-106)
- Tennessee State MoneyLine: -110
- SIUE MoneyLine: -110
- Total: 144.5 (-110)
Check the College Basketball Odds page for live updates and sharper angles before tip-off.
Matchup Breakdown
Tennessee State Outlook
The Tigers average 81.4 points per game, with Aaron Nkrumah, Antoine Lorick III, and Mikey Williams leading the offense. Nkrumah’s 24 points and 11 rebounds vs Southern Indiana highlighted his dominance, while Lorick’s 17 points showcased his consistency. Tennessee State’s efficiency (38.7 rebounds per game; 12-6 overall record) underscores their strengths. Their ability to win both at home and on the road makes them a dangerous opponent.
SIUE Outlook
The Cougars average 73.3 points per game, with Arnas Sakenis, Tyler King, and Jack Campion driving production. Sakenis’ 19 points vs SEMO highlighted his consistency, while King’s 16 points showcased his versatility. SIUE’s efficiency (37.3 rebounds per game; 11-8 overall record; 5-4 at home) underscores their strengths. Their ability to defend First Community Arena makes them tough at home.
Key Factors
This matchup may hinge on rebounding and pace. Tennessee State thrives on balanced scoring and offensive depth, while SIUE must rely on Sakenis’ firepower and home-court energy to tilt the game. Execution in the final minutes will likely decide the margin.
Injuries / Availability
Tennessee State: The Tigers report no fresh injury concerns heading into Thursday’s contest.
SIUE: The Cougars are expected to have their full rotation available.
Environment
First Community Arena has been a balanced venue for SIUE, where they’ve gone 5-4 this season. Tennessee 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: Tennessee State 78, SIUE 75
- Tennessee State +1.5 → Best Bet. Their offensive efficiency and rebounding suggest they can stay within the number and win outright.
- Under 144.5 → Total play. Both teams’ slower pace points toward a combined score below the line.
Tennessee State’s depth and scoring rhythm should carry them to victory, while SIUE’s home-court advantage keeps the game competitive. Expect a moderately high-scoring contest with totals landing just under the posted number.
Handicappers and Service Plays
Ohio Valley 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 Tennessee State vs SIUE, expert perspectives can help identify sharp angles in spreads and totals.


