NFL Previews 
MLB Previews 
NBA Previews 
NHL Previews 
Soccer Previews 
Stanford Cardinal vs Saint Louis Billikens Betting Preview
Stanford and Saint Louis meet Friday night in Palm Springs for the Acrisure Invitational championship. The Cardinal improved to 5-1 after a 72-68 win over Minnesota behind freshman guard Ebuka Okorie, who continues to drive the team’s scoring load. Kyle Smith praised his young star for handling pressure well, though he’s looking for more rotation support as Stanford faces its toughest test of the season. For updated pricing, check the NCAA basketball odds page.
Saint Louis arrives unbeaten at 6-0 after edging Santa Clara 71-70. Trey Green drilled six threes and scored 21 points, and Kellen Thames delivered the decisive layup in the final seconds. The Billikens have been one of the most efficient offensive teams in the country, and their pace-shooting combo has overwhelmed every opponent so far.
This matchup gives Stanford’s freshman-led backcourt another high-level defensive look, while Saint Louis gets its first neutral-site challenge of the season.
Dominate the Sportsbook with Proven Picks
All Sports, One Winning Strategy
Line Movement and Odds
Saint Louis opened −4.5 with a total near 158.5. Early action has split between the side and the total, with bettors showing respect for the Billikens’ scoring profile and Stanford’s ability to control tempo through free throws and rim pressure. For comparisons across Friday’s board, visit the college basketball previews section.
Matchup Breakdown
Stanford’s path revolves around Okorie, who has scored 25, 17 and 26 in recent outings. Their pace and ability to draw fouls keep them competitive in fast games. Benny Gealer continues to facilitate, and the Cardinal rebound well enough to maintain possessions. The question is whether they can defend the perimeter against elite spacing.
Saint Louis brings much more scoring depth. They average 95.6 points per game and shoot nearly 53 percent from the field. Green gives the Billikens a high-volume threat from deep, while their supporting guards attack downhill. Their size and efficiency create one of the rare mid-major offenses that can sustain 40 minutes of pressure.
For projections across similar spreads, check the free NCAAB picks page.
Injuries and Conditions
Stanford
No new injury updates.
Full roster: Stanford team page
Saint Louis
No new injuries reported.
Full roster: Saint Louis team page
Neutral-site indoor environment, no weather impact.
Best Bets and Prediction
Stanford has improved defensively, but Saint Louis brings too much scoring depth for extended stretches. The Billikens’ perimeter accuracy and balanced rotation tilt the matchup.
Projected Score: Saint Louis 82, Stanford 74
Best Bet: Saint Louis −4.5
Secondary Lean: Under 158.5
For bankroll fundamentals and strategy, use the Bettors Handbook.
Unlock 5,000+ Winning Picks Every Season
Bet Smarter, Across Every League
ScoresAndStats Handicappers and Picks
View long-term expert results on the Handicapper Leaderboard and explore premium selections in Service Plays.
Smart prep builds smarter tickets.
