The SWAC schedule rolls on Saturday with a matchup between Alabama State and Bethune-Cookman. Tip-off is set for January 31 at Moore Gymnasium, with the Wildcats entering as narrow home favorites in a game both teams need to stay in the middle tier of the conference race.
Bethune-Cookman (9–11, 4–4 SWAC) has shown some toughness at home, pulling off a few tight wins recently. Alabama State (7–12, 3–5 SWAC) has dropped three straight and continues to struggle in late-game execution. This spread is short for a reason — both teams are inconsistent, and the winner likely comes down to who rebounds better and hits free throws late.
With the number hovering inside one possession, small edges matter.
Alabama State Hornets vs Bethune-Cookman Wildcats Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama State Hornets | +118 | +2.5 (-110) | O 137.5 (-112) |
| Bethune-Cookman Wildcats | -142 | -2.5 (-110) | U 137.5 (-108) |
Alabama State Hornets Betting Form
Alabama State struggles with offensive consistency. They don’t shoot it well from deep, and their assist-to-turnover ratio is among the worst in the SWAC. Most of their offense comes in isolation or broken-play putbacks, which puts a ton of pressure on their defense to hold teams under 70.
Defensively, they’ve been OK. They protect the rim well and force a decent number of turnovers. The problem is they foul — a lot — and opponents are shooting nearly 75% from the line against them in league play. That matters in close spreads.
To monitor player status, be sure to check the Alabama State Hornets injury report. For team performance metrics, visit the Alabama State Hornets stats and results.
Bethune-Cookman Wildcats Betting Form
Bethune-Cookman plays with energy and speed, especially at home. They’ve covered three of their last four as a home favorite and are starting to find offensive rhythm through their guards. Their tempo creates extra possessions, and their perimeter defense has kept teams out of rhythm.
Rebounding remains a concern, particularly against longer frontcourts. But they’ve made up for it by forcing turnovers and getting to the line. At home, they average more free-throw attempts per game than any other team in the SWAC.
Check the Bethune-Cookman Wildcats injury report before betting. For more team data, see the Bethune-Cookman Wildcats schedule and stats.
Alabama State Hornets vs Bethune-Cookman Wildcats Matchup Breakdown
This matchup favors Bethune-Cookman slightly based on pace, shot profile, and late-game free-throw edge. Alabama State’s issues on the offensive end — especially in halfcourt sets — make it hard to back them as a road underdog, unless they dominate the glass.
Bethune-Cookman gets the nod on:
- Tempo control and turnover creation
- Free-throw rate and conversion
- Slight shooting edge from 3-point range
- Home momentum — covered 3 of last 4 at Moore Gym
That said, it’s a volatile game — live betting might offer better angles once pace is established.
Alabama State Hornets vs Bethune-Cookman Wildcats Predictions and Best Bets
This number looks fair. I lean Bethune-Cookman -2.5, mostly because they’ve executed better in close games and have the better backcourt. Alabama State could hang in it if they dominate the boards — but they’ve shown little ability to close lately.
I’d avoid the total unless it drops below 135. With how these teams foul and how erratic second halves get in the SWAC, the Over feels a bit risky but not unplayable.
Best Bet: Bethune-Cookman Wildcats -2.5 (-110).
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