Kansas State Wildcats vs. Iowa State Cyclones – In the highly anticipated NCAA Men’s Basketball showdown, the Kansas State Wildcats (14-4) will take on the Iowa State Cyclones (14-4). Both teams, boasting identical records, are set to clash in a game that’s critical for their standings. Cam Carter of the Wildcats and Keshon Gilbert of the Cyclones are the key players to watch, each bringing their distinctive flair and skill set to the court. This matchup is a must-see for those looking for college basketball winning picks.
Kansas State Wildcats vs. Iowa State Cyclones
Date & Time: Wednesday, January 24, 2024, at 9:00 PM ET
Location: James H. Hilton Coliseum
TV: ESP2
Kansas State Wildcats vs. Iowa State Cyclones Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
| Kansas State | TBD | TBD | TBD |
| Iowa State | TBD | TBD | TBD |
Kansas State Wildcats Analysis
The Wildcats enter this matchup with one of the most efficient offenses in the Big 12. They average a solid 74.5 points per game while shooting 43.8% from the field as a team, right in line with conference averages. Kansas State moves the ball extremely well, dishing out 15.3 assists per contest compared to just 14.7 turnovers. They take good care of the ball. The Wildcats are also an above average 3-point shooting team at 31.6% on 24.1 attempts per game.
Defensively, Kansas State has been decent but not spectacular. They allow 69.1 points per game to opponents on 43.2% shooting. 3-point defense has been a relative strength, holding teams to 32.8% outside shooting. Rebounding could be an area of concern, with opponents averaging 35.2 boards per contest. Kansas State pulls down 38.7 rebounds per outing. The Wildcats force 7 steals per game but block just 4.5 shots on average. Their defensive efficiency has been slightly better at home (67.8 ppg allowed) compared to the road (70.7 ppg).
Senior guard Cam Carter catalyzes this offense with his team-high 16.6 points per game on 41.6% shooting along with strong distribution (3.1 apg), rebounding (4.8 rpg) and defense (1.8 spg). His 31.3% 3-point stroke keeps defenses honest and opens driving lanes. Carter plays heavy minutes (36.2 mpg) and will be counted on to match the offensive production of Iowa State’s guard Keshon Gilbert (13.5 ppg).
Iowa State Cyclones Analysis
Iowa State boasts one of college basketball’s premier offenses, scoring 80.7 points per game on 48.7% shooting from the field and 34.6% from 3-point land. They light it up from all areas of the court. The Cyclones share the wealth offensively with four players in double figures, led by guard Keshon Gilbert‘s 13.5 points per contest. Iowa State moves the ball well too, averaging 17.7 assists per game.
Defensively, Iowa State has been average, giving up 71.4 points on 43.1% shooting to opponents. They have been significantly stronger defending at home, holding teams to 68.2 ppg on 40.5% shooting in Ames compared to 75.1 ppg allowed on the road. Rebounding has been an issue at times, with opponents pulling down 35.3 boards per game. Iowa State averages 35.5 rebounds per contest, so controlling the glass will be critical in this matchup.
Gilbert sets the pace for this efficient offense with his 13.5 points and 4.5 assists per game. The junior shoots a stellar 46.3% from the field, including 23.9% from long range. His quickness and playmaking out of the pick-and-roll generates lots of open looks for teammates. Gilbert will look to push the tempo and penetrate Kansas State’s defense.
Kansas State Wildcats vs. Iowa State Cyclones Against the Spread
Kansas State has gone 4-1 against the spread (ATS) over their last 5 contests. They have been especially strong covering on the road, with a 4-0 ATS record in their previous 4 away matchups. The totals have gone OVER in 2 of the Wildcats’ last 5 games.
Iowa State is 3-2 ATS over their last 5 outings but just 2-4 ATS in their previous 6 home matchups. The totals have gone OVER in 2 of the Cyclones’ last 5 overall but have gone OVER in 7 of their last 12 at home.
Kansas State Wildcats vs. Iowa State Cyclones Free Pick
Based on the trends, team stats and key players, here are the picks:
Moneyline: Kansas State Wildcats. The Wildcats have played extremely well on the road and match up nicely against this Iowa State defense. There is plenty of value getting them on the moneyline.
Spread: Kansas State Wildcats. Considering their strong record against the spread and the Cyclones’ inconsistency, the Wildcats are the safer bet.
Total: Over. Both of these teams have potent offenses capable of scoring. The over has hit in several of their recent contests and looks like the safest play..
Predicted Score: Kansas State Wildcats 78, Iowa State Cyclones 74
The Wildcats appear to have a slight edge in this matchup, making them the more reliable pick. Their consistent performance, especially in high-pressure games, positions them favorably against the Cyclones. For those betting through a Canadian online sportsbook or any other platform, the Wildcats’ moneyline and spread seem to be the most promising bets in this exciting NCAA face-off.
