Illinois State at Ohio Picks and Predictions for Thursday, November 6, 2025

By: David Anicetti Published 11/06/2025, 12:25 AM ET

The Illinois State Redbirds open their regular season Thursday night against the Ohio Bobcats at the Convocation Center in Athens. Illinois State begins play after a 22-win year and a CBI appearance last season, while Ohio looks to recover from an 89–85 home loss to Arkansas State in its opener. Our college basketball picks will make you a winner on Thursday.

Game Information for Illinois State vs Ohio

Where: Convocation Center, Athens, Ohio

Time: 7:00 PM ET

TV: ESPN+

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Illinois State Redbirds Preview

Illinois State returns several key players from last season, including forward Chase Walker and guard Johnny Kinziger. Walker averaged 15.2 points and 6.2 rebounds, while Kinziger added 14.6 points and 2.9 assists. Guards Ty Pence and Landon Wolf also return, giving head coach Ryan Pedon a stable starting group. Transfers Landon Moore from Butler and Boden Skunberg from North Dakota State add proven college scoring.

The Redbirds shot 48.2% from the field and 37.6% from three last season, ranking among the best shooting teams in the Missouri Valley Conference. Illinois State will again rely on perimeter offense and ball movement to offset Ohio’s size in the paint. New forward Brandon Lieb, a 7-footer from Illinois, is expected to help with rebounding and rim protection. The key for Illinois State is controlling tempo, avoiding turnovers, and keeping Ohio off the offensive glass.

Ohio Bobcats Preview

Ohio fell to Arkansas State 89–85 to open the season despite 28 points from forward Aidan Hadaway, who made 12 of 16 shots. Forward Javan Simmons added 14 points and four rebounds, and guard Jackson Paveletzke scored 16 with two assists. The Bobcats shot 49.2% overall and made seven three-pointers, but lost ground on the boards and gave up too many points in the lane.

The Bobcats had a balanced scoring attack in the season opener and will look to continue that against Illinois State. Ohio will play tighter defense and rebound better after allowing 50 points in the paint. If Hadaway continues to score at a similar level and the guards take care of the ball, Ohio should stay in control at home.

Illinois State at Ohio Prediction

Illinois State’s shooting can keep the game close, but Ohio’s strength around the basket gives it the advantage on its home court. The Bobcats will win the rebounding battle and score consistently in the paint. Final Score Prediction: Ohio Bobcats win and cover ATS 80–73.

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