Southern Illinois Salukis at Richmond Spiders Prediction, Picks, and Odds – December 13, 2025
Use Code WWWC The Southern Illinois Salukis (6–4) hit the road Saturday to face the Richmond Spiders (8–1) in a matchup that could define momentum for both programs early in the season.
Southern Illinois has been streaky, winning four of their last five after early losses to Nevada, North Dakota State, and UAB. Richmond enters with an impressive 8–1 record, coming off strong home wins and a narrow loss to Furman. Don't miss this weekend's big plays and catch more free college basketball picks at Winners and Whiners.
Big Test for SIU
Southern Illinois comes in at 6–4, featuring an offense capable of scoring in bursts but struggling with consistency. The Salukis average 110.1 points per 100 possessions (125th nationally), shooting 53.6% on effective field goals and 57.8% inside the arc. They struggle from long range at 28.4% (323rd nationally), which makes them heavily reliant on getting points in transition and on second-chance opportunities.
Quel’Ron House leads the team with 14.2 points per game, while Rolyns Aligbe grabs 5.9 rebounds to help battle inside. Damien Mayo Jr. runs the offense with 3.1 assists and 1.8 steals per game, and Jorge Moreno provides rim protection with 0.8 blocks per contest. The Salukis generate a fair number of extra possessions, pulling down 32.7% offensive rebounds, but their defensive efficiency is 121st in the country, allowing 104.9 points per 100 possessions.
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Richmond has come out hot
Richmond has started 8–1 behind a well-rounded offensive attack that is efficient and balanced. The Spiders post 111.6 points per 100 possessions (105th nationally) and shoot 55.3% on effective field goals (68th). They convert 37.8% from three and get to the line at a high rate (44.9% FTA/FGA, 36th nationally), which allows them to push tempo and maintain scoring even when shots aren’t falling.
Aiden Argabright leads the team with 11.3 points and 1.7 steals per game, while Mike Walz anchors the paint with 7.6 rebounds, 2.9 assists. Defensively, Richmond holds opponents to 104.1 points per 100 possessions (102nd nationally), allowing 49.5% effective field-goal shooting. They also protect the rim well and limit second-chance opportunities, which should help against a SIU team that is strong on the offensive boards.
Southern Illinois Salukis at Richmond Predictions
SIU vs Richmond ATS Pick:
- Richmond -4.5 (4 units)
Richmond’s efficiency and depth give them a clear edge against a Salukis team that struggles from three and has inconsistent defense. The Spiders’ ability to get to the free-throw line and limit second-chance points against a team like Southern Illinois sets up well for a cover.
Southern Illinois will have to shoot better than what they have shown from three-point range and dominate the boards to have a chance, and I don't see that happening. I like Richmond. Pick:
SIU vs Richmond Total Pick:
- Over 153.5 (3 units)
Both teams run their offense quickly, with Southern Illinois 96th in adjusted tempo and Richmond slightly slower, but still close to the nation's top third at 136th. The Salukis have also shown the ability to score in bursts, putting up 83+ points in five of their ten games, while Richmond has scored 84+ in six of nine contests. Richmond’s free-throw rate and Southern Illinois’ strength on the offensive glass should also help the scoring chances. I like the over.
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