Happy Friday, basketball fans.
Thursday was a tough 1–4 night, but it’s time to bounce back. Our season record now sits at 180-177-1. Be sure to follow all of our picks throughout the season on BetStamp.
Best Bets for Friday, January 23
Let’s get to Friday’s card.
Saint Louis Billikens at St. Bonaventure Bonnies
Josh Schertz’s Billikens have earned our trust. Saint Louis is a tough, disciplined group that travels well and should be able to control this game from start to finish. If the Billikens want to establish themselves as the team to beat in the Atlantic 10, this is a spot they need to handle convincingly before heading back home.
Betting Pick: Saint Louis Billikens -8.5 over St. Bonaventure Bonnies
Final Score Prediction: Saint Louis 87, St. Bonaventure 75
Indiana Hoosiers at Rutgers Scarlet Knights
This Big Ten matchup in Piscataway features two teams searching for answers. Indiana has dropped four straight games and is coming off a loss to Michigan. Rutgers has also lost back-to-back contests, most recently at Iowa. Expect an ugly, physical game. Indiana may find a way to escape with a win, but the home Scarlet Knights should do enough to stay within the number.
Betting Pick: Rutgers Scarlet Knights +8.5 over Indiana Hoosiers
Final Score Prediction: Indiana 77, Rutgers 75
Ohio State Buckeyes at Michigan Wolverines
Rivalry games rarely turn into blowouts, and this one should be no different. Michigan’s athleticism creates problems across the floor, but Ohio State should shoot well enough to remain competitive. The Buckeyes may not threaten to win outright, but the spread is simply too large in this spot.
Betting Pick: Ohio State Buckeyes +16.5 over Michigan Wolverines
Final Score Prediction: Michigan 83, Ohio State 71
Marquette Golden Eagles at Butler Bulldogs
Neither team has been consistent this season, but Butler appears to be trending in the right direction. The Bulldogs are seeking a third straight win and should take advantage of a Marquette team that has struggled mightily, despite a recent overtime win over Providence. Look for Butler to control this one at home.
Betting Pick: Butler Bulldogs -6.5 over Marquette Golden Eagles
Final Score Prediction: Butler 82, Marquette 75
Utah State Aggies at Colorado State Rams
Friday night closes with a strong Mountain West matchup. Utah State enters at 15–3 but has dropped back-to-back games. Colorado State is 12–7 and coming off a dominant home win over Air Force. Moby Arena should be a major factor, and this feels like a spot where the Rams not only cover but win outright.
Betting Pick: Colorado State Rams +4.5 over Utah State Aggies
Final Score Prediction: Colorado State 81, Utah State 80
Friday Hoops
Enjoy the games, and best of luck on Friday night. Whether you follow or fade, be sure to track all of our picks on BetStamp throughout the season.