Alcorn State Braves vs Bethune-Cookman Wildcats Picks and Predictions January 26th 2026

Alcorn State Braves vs Bethune-Cookman Wildcats Betting Preview

The Alcorn State Braves head to Daytona Beach to face the Bethune-Cookman Wildcats in a Southwestern Athletic Conference matchup. Both teams enter with contrasting momentum — Alcorn State has struggled all season but continues to cover spreads as an underdog, while Bethune-Cookman is coming off a dominant win and has been reliable at home. With the Wildcats favored by 13.5 points, this contest highlights a battle between a team trying to stay competitive despite its record and another looking to build on recent success at Moore Gymnasium.

Line Movement and Odds

Bethune-Cookman enters as the favorite, but Alcorn State’s ability to cover spreads makes this line worth monitoring. Current market:

• Alcorn State Spread: +13.5 (-120)
• Bethune-Cookman Spread: -13.5 (-106)
• Alcorn State MoneyLine: +609
• Bethune-Cookman MoneyLine: -1107
• Total: 147.5 (-110)

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Matchup Breakdown

Alcorn State Outlook

The Braves average 65.8 points per game, with Tycen McDaniels, Jameel Morris, and Shane Lancaster leading the offense. McDaniels’ 20 points and 9 rebounds vs Florida A&M highlighted his consistency, while Morris’ 14 points showcased his scoring ability. Alcorn State’s efficiency (49.2% FG for Lancaster; 10-6 ATS as underdogs; 3-15 overall record; 2-14 road record) underscores their strengths. Their ability to keep games close against stronger opponents makes them a dangerous underdog.

Bethune-Cookman Outlook

The Wildcats average 74.2 points per game, with Jakobi Heady, Doctor Bradley, and Zion Harmon driving production. Bradley’s 22 points and 10 rebounds vs Jackson State highlighted his dominance, while Heady’s 17 points showcased his consistency. Bethune-Cookman’s efficiency (49.5% FG for Heady; 8-11 overall record; 5-3 home record) underscores their strengths. Their ability to dominate at Moore Gymnasium makes them tough at home.

Key Factors

This matchup may hinge on rebounding and perimeter shooting. Alcorn State thrives on McDaniels’ inside presence and Lancaster’s efficiency, while Bethune-Cookman must rely on Bradley’s rebounding and Heady’s scoring to tilt the game. Execution in the final minutes will likely decide the margin.

Injuries / Availability

Alcorn State: The Braves report no fresh injury concerns heading into Monday’s contest.

Bethune-Cookman: The Wildcats are expected to have their full rotation available.

Environment

Moore Gymnasium has been a reliable venue for Bethune-Cookman, where they’ve gone 5-3 this season. Alcorn State, however, has struggled away from home, making this a clash of home dominance versus visiting resilience.

Best Bets and Prediction

Projected Final Score: Bethune-Cookman 74, Alcorn State 66

• Alcorn State +13.5 → Best Bet. Their ability to cover spreads and recent competitive performances suggest they can stay within the number.
• Under 147.5 → Total play. Both teams’ pace points toward a combined score below the line.

Bethune-Cookman’s depth and home-court advantage should carry them to victory, while Alcorn 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

SWAC 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 Alcorn State vs Bethune-Cookman, expert perspectives can help identify sharp angles in spreads and totals.