Belmont Bruins vs UIC Flames Betting Preview
The Belmont Bruins visit the UIC Flames in a Missouri Valley Conference matchup at Credit Union 1 Arena in Chicago. Belmont enters with a 21-3 record and looks to build on a win over Drake, while UIC aims to defend its 13-11 overall mark after a loss to Murray State. With the Bruins favored by 3.5 points, this contest highlights a battle between Belmont’s offensive firepower and UIC’s home resilience.
Line Movement and Odds
Belmont is favored, but UIC’s home record makes this line worth tracking. Current market:
- Belmont Spread: -3.5 (-109)
- UIC Spread: +3.5 (-115)
- Belmont MoneyLine: -174
- UIC MoneyLine: +142
- Total: 150.5 (-110)
Check the college basketball picks for real-time updates, especially as bettors weigh Belmont’s road dominance against UIC’s ability to cover spreads.
Matchup Breakdown
Belmont Outlook
The Bruins average 84.0 points per game, with Drew Scharnowski, Sam Orme, and Tyler Lundblade leading the offense. Orme’s 22 points vs Drake highlighted his consistency, while Scharnowski’s efficiency adds balance. Belmont’s efficiency (21-3 overall record; 10-1 on the road; 51.8% FG shooting, 4th nationally; 40.1% three-point shooting) underscores their strengths. Their ability to score efficiently and rebound makes them dangerous favorites.
UIC Outlook
The Flames average 75.1 points per game, with Rashund Washington Jr., Ahmad Henderson II, and Elijah Crawford driving production. Washington’s 22 points and 12 rebounds vs Murray State highlighted his dominance, while Henderson’s playmaking adds balance. UIC’s efficiency (13-11 overall record; 7-4 at home; 16.7 free throws made per game; ability to win close contests) underscores their strengths. Their ability to score efficiently at home makes them competitive in Chicago.
Key Factors
This matchup may hinge on tempo and perimeter shooting. Belmont thrives on Orme’s scoring and Lundblade’s perimeter accuracy, while UIC must rely on Washington’s rebounding and Henderson’s consistency to tilt the game. Execution in the final minutes will likely decide whether UIC can cover the spread.
Injuries / Availability
Belmont: The Bruins report no fresh injury concerns heading into Friday’s contest.
UIC: The Flames are expected to have their full rotation available.
Environment
Credit Union 1 Arena has been a steady venue for UIC, where they’ve gone 7-4 this season. Belmont, however, has shown resilience with a 10-1 road record, making this a clash of Bruins’ road dominance versus Flames’ home grit.
Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Final Score: Belmont 80, UIC 72
- Belmont -3.5 → Best Bet. Their offensive pace and shooting efficiency suggest they can cover the spread.
- Under 150.5 → Total play. Both teams’ tempo balance points toward a combined score below the line.
Belmont’s depth and efficient shooting should carry them to victory, while UIC’s offensive resilience keeps the spread competitive. Expect a contest that leans lower-scoring, with totals landing just under the posted number.
Handicappers and Service Plays
Missouri Valley games often spotlight tempo mismatches and perimeter battles. Our Best Handicappers highlight analysts who specialize in conference efficiency trends, while the Leaderboard tracks who’s delivering consistent returns. For Belmont vs UIC, premium insights are also available at Buy Picks, helping bettors decide whether the spread or total offers the sharper edge.



