SIUE Cougars vs Southern Indiana Screaming Eagles Betting Preview
The SIUE Cougars travel to Evansville to face the Southern Indiana Screaming Eagles in an Ohio Valley Conference matchup at Liberty Arena. SIUE enters with a 13-9 record and confidence despite a narrow loss to Morehead State, while Southern Indiana looks to defend its home court after falling to Lindenwood. With the Cougars favored by 1.5 points, this contest highlights a battle between SIUE’s balanced scoring and Southern Indiana’s rebounding strength.
Line Movement and Odds
SIUE is favored, but Southern Indiana’s rebounding edge makes this line worth tracking. Current market:
- SIUE Spread: -1.5 (-110)
- Southern Indiana Spread: +1.5 (-110)
- SIUE MoneyLine: -125
- Southern Indiana MoneyLine: +105
- Total: 132.5 (-110)
Keep an eye on the college basketball odds page for real-time shifts, especially as bettors weigh SIUE’s shooting efficiency against Southern Indiana’s rebounding advantage.
Matchup Breakdown
SIUE Outlook
The Cougars average 71.5 points per game, with Tyler King, Arnas Sakenis, and Lamar Wright leading the offense. King’s 24 points vs Morehead State highlighted his scoring, while Sakenis’ 63.2% shooting showcased his efficiency. SIUE’s efficiency (13-9 overall record; 6-5 on the road; 37 rebounds per game, 138th nationally) underscores their strengths. Their ability to score efficiently and rebound makes them dangerous even away from Edwardsville.
Southern Indiana Outlook
The Screaming Eagles average 68.2 points per game, with Amaree Brown, Ismail Habib, and Cardell Bailey driving production. Brown’s 22 points vs Lindenwood highlighted his scoring, while Samuels’ 15 rebounds showcased his dominance inside. Southern Indiana’s efficiency (5-16 overall record; 3-9 at home; 39.3 rebounds per game, 61st nationally) underscores their strengths. Their ability to rebound and defend at home makes them competitive despite their record.
Key Factors
This matchup may hinge on rebounding and shooting efficiency. SIUE thrives on King’s scoring and Sakenis’ consistency, while Southern Indiana must rely on Brown’s hot hand and Samuels’ rebounding to tilt the game. Execution in the final minutes will likely decide the margin.
Injuries / Availability
SIUE: The Cougars report no fresh injury concerns heading into Saturday’s contest.
Southern Indiana: The Screaming Eagles are expected to have their full rotation available.
Environment
Liberty Arena has been a tough venue for Southern Indiana, where they’ve gone 3-9 this season. SIUE, however, has shown resilience with six road wins, making this a clash of Cougars’ road steadiness versus Screaming Eagles’ attempt to defend their home floor.
Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Final Score: SIUE 72, Southern Indiana 70
- Southern Indiana +1.5 → Best Bet. Their rebounding edge suggests they can keep the game close.
- Over 132.5 → Total play. Both teams’ pace points toward a combined score above the line.
SIUE’s shooting and balanced scoring should carry them to victory, while Southern Indiana’s rebounding keeps the spread competitive. Expect a contest that leans higher-scoring, with totals landing just over the posted number.
Handicappers and Service Plays
Ohio Valley games often spotlight rebounding duels and late-game execution. Our Best Handicappers highlight analysts who specialize in mid-major conference trends, while the Leaderboard tracks who’s delivering consistent returns. For SIUE vs Southern Indiana, expert breakdowns in Buy Picks can help bettors decide whether the spread or total offers the sharper edge.


