North Dakota State Bison vs Michigan State Spartans Picks and Predictions for Thursday March 19 2026

By: Kim Smith Published 03/19/2026, 12:45 AM ET

The North Dakota State Bison face the Michigan State Spartans at KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York, with tip-off set for 4:05 PM on TNT. Michigan State enters as a heavy -1800 favorite while North Dakota State is +1000, with the total set at 143.5 and the Spartans favored by 16.5 points. Be sure to check out our free college basketball picks for more tournament coverage and daily plays.

Bison Look to Keep Momentum Going

North Dakota State comes into this matchup with a 27-7 record and strong recent form, recently winning over North Dakota, Omaha, Oral Roberts, and North Dakota again while recently losing to St. Thomas-Minnesota. They have been able to put together consistent performances on both ends of the floor.

The Bison are averaging 80.7 points per game while allowing 69.6, shooting 47% from the field. They also contribute 36.4 rebounds and 15.5 assists per game, showing a balanced offensive attack.

One key strength for North Dakota State is their ability to generate turnovers, averaging 8.3 steals per game. This defensive pressure could help them stay competitive if they can create extra possessions.

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Spartans Bring Defense and Depth

Michigan State enters this game with a 25-7 record and has faced strong competition throughout the season, recently winning over Rutgers, Indiana, and Purdue while recently losing to UCLA and Michigan. Their experience against top teams is a major advantage.

The Spartans are averaging 78.9 points per game while allowing just 68.4, shooting 47% from the field. They also dominate the glass with 39.8 rebounds and add 18.5 assists per game, reflecting their strong ball movement.

Michigan State’s biggest strength is their defensive consistency and depth. They can control tempo, limit scoring opportunities, and wear down opponents over the course of the game.

North Dakota State vs Michigan State Pick

Michigan State -16.5

Michigan State’s defensive strength and experience against higher-level competition give them a clear edge in this matchup. While North Dakota State is a solid team, the Spartans’ ability to control the game should allow them to win comfortably and cover the spread.

North Dakota State vs Michigan State Total Pick

Under 143.5

I’m leaning toward the under here because Michigan State’s defense tends to slow games down and limit scoring opportunities. With the Spartans controlling tempo, this game should stay under the total.

Final Score Prediction: Michigan State 74, North Dakota State 56

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