NIT First Round: Kent State vs Illinois State Preview, Odds, Predictions (March 18)
- The Golden Flashes make the postseason for the second straight year.
- The Redbirds are back in the NIT for the first time since 2017.
- This marks the eighth all-time matchup between the two squads.
The NIT first round remains active throughout the March 18 schedule as the Kent State Golden Flashes have a date with the Illinois State Redbirds. The latter stands tall as the slight favorite, paving the way for a great matchup for mid-major basketball fans.
How to Watch
- When: Wednesday, March 18, 8 pm ET
- Where: CEFCU Arena, Normal, Illinois
- How to Watch: ESPN+
NCAA Matchup Odds & Lines
| Team | Odds | Spread | Totals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kent State | -110 | +5 | O153.5 |
| Illinois State | -110 | -5 | U153.5 |
Game Preview
The Golden Flashes (24-9) enjoyed a strong campaign in the MAC, finishing at third place behind NCAA Tournament-participants Akron and Miami (OH). They had a chance to automatically qualify for March Madness but lost to Akron in the MAC semifinals. Delrecco Gillespie is at the heart of the offense with averages of 18.1 points and 11.2 rebounds per game. Meanwhile, the trio of Morgan Safford (66 3-pointers, 35.3%), Jahari Williamson (78, 45.1%) and Quinn Woidke (67, 41.4%) will look to explode with big shooting performances from beyond the arc.
The Redbirds (20-12) pulled off back-to-back 20-win seasons for the first time since the 2008-09 and 2009-10 campaigns. They finished third place in the MVC standings as they lost to Northern Iowa in the quarterfinals of the conference tournament. Chase Walker was named to the Missouri Valley Conference First Team, the second consecutive season he has earned this honor. He is producing 13.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game. On another note, Johnny Kinziger seeks to be active in the playmaking department with 11.4 points, 3.1 assists and 2.5 rebounds per contest.
Kent State vs Illinois State Head-to-Head
The two programs have had seven meetings in their history, and the result is 5-2 for the Golden Flashes. The last matchup was in November 2007 when Kent State won 65-59.
Kent State vs Illinois State Predictions
The winner of this matchup will play the victors between Wake Forest Navy. Illinois State has a balanced attack that will provide chances for the supporting cast to deliver key performances. However, Kent State boasts better chemistry and a higher ceiling with more players that can score and shoot the ball at will, presenting trouble for Illinois State’s defense. Our betting pick here is for the Golden Flashes to cover a 5-point spread.
- Free NCAAB pick:Â Kent State Golden Flashes +5
