Murray State Racers vs Valparaiso Beacons Picks and Predictions for Sunday, December 21, 2025

By: David Anicetti Updated 12/21/2025, 12:30 AM ET

The Murray State Racers travel to the Athletics-Recreation Center on Sunday afternoon with a 9–3 overall record and a 1–0 mark in Missouri Valley Conference play, while the Valparaiso Beacons are 6–5 overall as they open conference action at home. Murray State has won five straight games, while Valparaiso looks to rebound after a road loss earlier in the week. Build your bankroll with free college basketball picks.

Murray State vs Valparaiso Game Information

Tipoff: 1:00 PM ET
Date: Sunday, December 21, 2025
Where: Athletics-Recreation Center, Valparaiso, IN
TV: ESPN+

Murray State Racers Preview

Murray State continues to push tempo offensively, averaging 89.7 points per game while shooting 48% from the field. The Racers move the ball effectively in half-court sets, averaging 16.2 assists per game, and have multiple scoring options capable of stretching the floor. That balance has allowed Murray State to maintain offensive pressure throughout possessions rather than relying on quick shots.

Defensively, Murray State has allowed 78.0 points per game, but rebounding has helped limit second-chance opportunities, with the Racers averaging 38.8 boards per contest. The Racers have a strong interior presence, averaging 3.7 blocks per game, while steady pressure defense around the perimeter has helped keep opponents from seeing open looks.

Valparaiso Beacons Preview

Valparaiso averages 72.8 points per game and shoots 41% from the field, with much of its offense coming from controlled possessions rather than in transition. The Beacons average 12.5 assists per game and look to generate quality looks by working through the post and reversing the ball on the perimeter.

Subscribe Now

I authorize Picks And Parlays to send me promotional emails

I understand that I can unsubscribe at any time. I have read and accepted the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy. I consent that Picks And Parlays may use third-party services to process my data.

Terms & Conditions

On the defensive end, Valparaiso allows 69.9 points per game and has been more effective when able to slow games down. The Beacons average 38.6 rebounds per game and 4.5 blocks, using size to contest shots inside. Limiting turnovers and avoiding extended scoring droughts have been key factors in their wins this season.

Murray State vs Valparaiso Prediction

Murray State’s ability to sustain its offense over long stretches will help the Racers open a lead early in this game, especially against a Valparaiso team that prefers a slower pace. The Racers’ ball movement and scoring will be too much for the Beacons to keep pace. Murray State will control the tempo much of the second half and pull away late to win by double-digits. Final Score Prediction: Murray State Racers win and cover ATS, 82–70. Betting on sports and on Murray State is easy, but even easier if you use the best sportsbooks. Make sure you know about how the fans are looking on prediction markets for Valparaiso with the Novig promo code. Make sure when you place your bet on Valparaiso vs Murray State you are using the BetMGM bonus code.

Betting on College Basketball?

Join Picks and Parlays premium for free and get a free $30 coupon with code FREE30
Get started and wager on college hoops today with our favorite online sportsbooks
Claim a CBB betting bonus offer with the best sportsbook promos