NFL Previews 
MLB Previews 
NBA Previews 
NHL Previews 
Soccer Previews 
Bradley Braves vs Murray State Racers Picks and Predictions – January 4th 2026
The Murray State Racers host the Bradley Braves at the CFSB Center on Sunday, January 4, with tipoff scheduled for 5:00 PM ET. Murray State (10–4) is a 5-point favorite in this Missouri Valley showdown, while Bradley (9–5) comes in as a dangerous road dog with a physical, grind-it-out style.
The total is set at 160.5 — high for a Missouri Valley matchup — suggesting both teams are expected to push the pace more than usual. Murray State thrives in transition, while Bradley leans on structured, half-court sets and late-clock execution. It’s a clash of styles, and bettors should watch for which team controls tempo early.
Access the Top Sports Picks in Real Time
Never Miss a Winning Edge Again
Bradley Braves vs Murray State Racers Odds
Here are the latest lines for this Sunday matchup. Use the latest college basketball odds to shop around for best numbers.
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bradley Braves | +186 | +5.0 (-110) | O 160.5 (-110) |
| Murray State Racers | -225 | -5.0 (-110) | U 160.5 (-110) |
Bradley Braves Betting Form
Bradley has won 3 of its last 4 and enters this one confident, even as a road dog. They slow the game down, execute well in the half-court, and lean on a physical frontcourt to control the glass. Offensively, they’re not explosive, but they’re efficient — especially when they limit turnovers.
Defensively, they’re one of the top units in the MVC. They rotate well, defend without fouling, and make opponents work for every shot. That could be a key advantage against Murray State’s aggressive, transition-first offense.
Availability could impact their depth, so check the Bradley Braves injury report before betting. For stats and trends, visit the Bradley Braves stats and results.
Murray State Racers Betting Form
Murray State has been sharp at home, winning 6 of its last 7 in the CFSB Center and averaging nearly 82 points per game in those wins. The Racers want to push tempo, create offense through pressure, and get early-clock buckets. When they succeed, they’re tough to stop — especially in front of a lively home crowd.
Defensively, they’re hit or miss. They force turnovers but also give up plenty of open looks when teams break their press or settle into the half-court. That’s where the concern lies against a Bradley team that doesn’t get rattled easily.
Confirm lineup news via the Murray State Racers injury report before tip. For more, dig into the Murray State Racers schedule and stats.
Bradley Braves vs Murray State Racers Matchup Breakdown
This is a classic pace vs precision battle. If Murray State gets out and runs, they could create enough chaos to pull away. But if Bradley slows it down, protects the ball, and keeps the Racers out of rhythm, they’re live to win outright.
Matchup edges:
- Bradley has the edge in defensive efficiency and rebounding.
- Murray State plays faster, forces more turnovers, and thrives in chaos.
- Free-throw rate favors the Racers, but only if they can collapse the defense.
- The total hinges entirely on tempo — if Bradley controls pace, it likely stays Under.
Watch the first 8–10 minutes closely — the team that sets the tone early probably covers.
Compare Expert Predictions Instantly
All Angles, All Stats, One Place
Bradley Braves vs Murray State Racers Predictions and Best Bets
This line is tight, but I’m leaning toward Bradley +5. They have the better defense, more disciplined offense, and a playing style that can frustrate high-octane teams like Murray State. The Racers can still win, but covering could require a hot shooting night or a foul-heavy second half.
As for the total — 160.5 is high for a game involving Bradley. Unless Murray State controls tempo from tip to buzzer, I don’t see enough possessions to push it Over. Slight lean to the Under.
Secondary lean: Bradley +2.5 first half. If they start clean and keep the pace down, they can enter the break within a bucket.
Best Bet: Bradley Braves +5.0 (-110).
NCAAB Picks and Handicappers on ScoresAndStats
Want more expert betting picks like this? Visit today’s college basketball picks to get the latest breakdowns on every slate.
Track ROI and performance trends on the handicapper leaderboard or browse the full list of top sports handicappers for various betting styles.
Upgrade your edge with premium NCAAB picks backed by long-term profit and deep matchup research.
