Wed Mar 19 01:30:00 UTC 2025: **Underdog Red Wolves Host Billikens in NIT Opener**
JONESBORO, Ark. – The Arkansas State Red Wolves will host the Saint Louis Billikens in the opening round of the National Invitation Tournament (NIT) on Tuesday night. Despite falling short of an NCAA tournament berth after a near-miss in the Sun Belt Conference championship, the Red Wolves are eager to make the most of their first national postseason appearance since 1999. Their strong defense, which ranks among the nation’s top 20 in opponent field goal percentage, will be key against a Saint Louis team known for its consistent under performance.
Sports analyst Ed Scimia predicts an under for the game’s total points, citing the Billikens’ tendency to stay under projected totals and the Red Wolves’ defensive prowess. While he forecasts a victory for Arkansas State, due in part to home-court advantage, he believes the combined score will fall under the surprisingly high over/under line set by oddsmakers. Scimia’s same-game parlay includes Arkansas State covering the spread and the Red Wolves’ point total staying under 80.5. He attributes the high over/under to recent short-term trends for both teams rather than long-term performance. He advises bettors to shop around for the best odds before placing any wager.
First Piper 