Wright State Raiders vs Milwaukee Panthers Picks and Predictions January 1st 2026

Milwaukee Panthers vs Wright State Raiders Betting Preview

Milwaukee and Wright State meet Thursday afternoon in a Horizon League matchup at the Nutter Center. Both teams enter at 7-7, but their profiles split sharply by venue. Milwaukee is 1-6 on the road, while Wright State has built a 6-3 home record. You can follow line movement and updated pricing on the NCAA basketball odds page.

Milwaukee comes off an 80-60 loss to Wisconsin, a game where the Panthers struggled to score consistently but competed on the glass. Wright State is trending the opposite direction after an efficient 88-73 home win over Oakland, shooting better than 56 percent from the floor.

This game sits near the middle of the Horizon League pack, which often produces tight margins and live underdog value.

Line Movement and Odds

Wright State opened as a mid-range home favorite at −5.5, with the total set at 149.5. Early action has been steady, with some interest on Milwaukee due to rebounding strength and prior road success in conference play.

Totals bettors face a pace question. Both teams score efficiently when shots fall, but neither pushes tempo consistently. For a broader slate view and league context, check the college basketball previews page.

Matchup Breakdown

Milwaukee’s path centers on rebounding and second-chance points. The Panthers average nearly 40 rebounds per game and have shown they can compete physically even against stronger opponents. Josh Dixon remains the primary scoring option, while Danilo Jovanovich provides upside when Milwaukee stretches the floor.

Wright State’s edge is shot efficiency and ball pressure. The Raiders rank well inside the top 100 in field goal percentage and generate steals at a high rate. Solomon Callaghan and TJ Burch lead a balanced attack, and Michael Cooper supplies steady scoring night to night.

If Milwaukee controls the glass and limits turnovers, this stays close. If Wright State converts steals into transition points, the home side creates separation. For comparison against other projections, the free college basketball picks page adds context.

Injuries and Conditions

Milwaukee

No major injuries reported. Road consistency remains the primary concern.
Full details: Milwaukee team page

Wright State

No significant absences reported entering the matchup.
Full details: Wright State team page

Indoor matchup, no external conditions.

Best Bets and Prediction

This profiles as a competitive Horizon League game where the underdog has a path to cover. Milwaukee’s rebounding edge can neutralize Wright State’s efficiency, especially if turnovers are kept in check.

Projected Score: Wright State 78, Milwaukee 75
Best Bet: Milwaukee +5.5
Secondary Lean: Under 149.5, with pace likely tightening in conference play

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Conference edges come from discipline.