Columbia Lions vs Cornell Big Red Picks and Predictions January 5th 2026

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Columbia Lions vs Cornell Big Red Betting Preview

The Columbia Lions enter 11-3 and look to extend their rebounding edge, while the Cornell Big Red aim to defend home court in this Ivy League matchup at Newman Arena.

Line Movement and Odds

Cornell opened as the favorite, with the line reflecting confidence in their home-court strength. Current market:

  • Cornell Spread: -2.5 (-105)
  • Columbia Spread: +2.5 (-115)
  • Cornell MoneyLine: -141
  • Columbia MoneyLine: +117
  • Total: 169.5 (-110)

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Matchup Breakdown

Columbia Outlook

Columbia averages 81.3 points per game, with Kenny Noland, Connor Igoe, and Richard Nweke leading the offense. Their rebounding edge (44 per game, 9th nationally) and shooting efficiency (49.6% FG, 36th nationally) highlight balance. Their 4-3 road record underscores resilience, while their 11-3 overall mark shows competitiveness heading into Ivy League play.

Cornell Outlook

Cornell averages 94.2 points per game, with Gioacchino Panzini, Adam Hinton, and Nazir Williams providing scoring depth. Their perimeter shooting (14.8 threes per game, 2nd nationally) and effective FG% (61.9%, 4th nationally) highlight offensive strength. Their 4-0 home record underscores dominance heading into conference play.

Key Matchup / Path to Victory

The game hinges on Cornell’s ability to maintain offensive rhythm, while Columbia must lean on Noland and Igoe to pace the offense. If Columbia controls tempo and boards, their depth should keep the game close.

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Injuries / Availability

Columbia: No injury updates provided.

Cornell: No injury updates provided.

Environment

Newman Arena provides Cornell with a strong home-court edge, where they are 4-0 this season. Columbia’s balanced offense highlights their ability to compete in Ithaca.

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Best Bets and Prediction

Projected Final Score: Cornell 84, Columbia 78

  • Cornell -2.5 → Best Bet. Their offensive pace and shooting efficiency make them the sharper side.
  • Under 169.5 → Total play. Both teams’ slower pace points toward a combined score below the line.

Cornell’s depth and shooting should dictate the game, while Columbia’s rebounding keeps the spread in play. Expect a competitive contest trending under the total.

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