Colorado State Rams vs Grand Canyon Lopes Picks & Predictions for Saturday, January 3, 2026

By: Kim Smith Published 01/03/2026, 12:35 AM ET

Introduction

Mountain West action continues Saturday, January 3, 2026, as the Colorado State Rams (9-4, 0-2 MW) travel to Phoenix to face the Grand Canyon Lopes (8-4, 1-0 MW) at Global Credit Union Arena. Tip-off is set for 8:00 PM ET on MWN. ESPN’s matchup predictor slightly favors the home side, giving Grand Canyon a 55.5% win probability, setting up a competitive conference clash. Be ready for all the college basketball action with our free college basketball picks.

Colorado State Rams Preview

Colorado State enters this matchup needing a response after back-to-back Mountain West losses to Nevada and Utah State. Despite the skid, the Rams remain one of the more efficient offensive teams in the league, averaging 81.8 points per game while shooting an impressive 52% from the field. Their ball movement stands out (17.3 assists per game), but recent defensive breakdowns (72.4 points allowed per game) have put pressure on their offense to keep pace.

The Rams are led by Kyle Jorgensen, who is averaging 13.8 PPG on an elite 63.7% shooting while also converting 85% at the free-throw line. Colorado State’s challenge in this matchup is rebounding—they pull down just 33.4 boards per game, a potential issue against a physical GCU frontcourt.

Grand Canyon Lopes Preview

Grand Canyon comes in with momentum, riding a three-game winning streak and already owning a conference win. The Lopes play at a slightly slower pace, averaging 76.8 points per game, but they defend well, allowing just 68.8 points per contest. Their rebounding edge (37.3 per game) and ability to protect home court have been consistent strengths.

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Offensively, GCU leans on Jaden Henley, who leads the team with 17.8 PPG while shooting 47.6% from the floor and 82.1% at the line. The Lopes don’t shoot as efficiently overall as Colorado State, but they force tougher shots and limit second chances, which often swings games in their favor at home.

Key Matchup Factors

This game likely comes down to efficiency vs. physicality. Colorado State’s shooting and ball movement give them a path to win, but Grand Canyon’s rebounding edge and defensive discipline directly attack CSU’s weaknesses. The Rams’ recent struggles away from home, combined with GCU’s ability to control tempo, tilt this matchup toward the Lopes.

Colorado State vs Grand Canyon Pick

Best Pick: Grand Canyon Lopes to win

Grand Canyon’s defensive consistency, rebounding advantage, and current form make them the stronger side at home. Colorado State can keep this close if they shoot well early, but GCU’s ability to grind late possessions gives them the edge. The best sportsbooks are the best way to go when you are betting on Colorado State. Make sure you know about how the fans are looking on prediction markets for Grand Canyon with the Onyx Odds promo code. Getting the most out of your bets on Grand Canyon vs Colorado State can be done by using the Fanatics Sportsbook promo code.

Lean: Grand Canyon on the moneyline; slight preference to the under if the pace stays controlled.

Final Score Prediction

Grand Canyon 78, Colorado State 72

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