UIC Flames vs Murray State Racers Picks and Predictions for Friday March 6 2026

By: Kim Smith Published 03/06/2026, 12:40 AM ET

The UIC Flames take on the Murray State Racers in the MVC Tournament Quarterfinal on Friday March 6, 2026 at the Enterprise Center in St. Louis, Missouri. Tip-off is scheduled for 3:30 PM and the game will be broadcast on ESPN+. At the time of this writing the odds were not released for the moneyline, total, or spread. Be sure to check out our free college basketball picks for more daily predictions and betting insight from across the college basketball slate.

Flames Bringing Strong Defense into the MVC Tournament

UIC enters the Missouri Valley Conference Tournament with a 17-14 overall record and a solid 12-8 mark in conference play. The Flames have been competitive down the stretch as they recently lost to Indiana State, recently won over Bradley in double overtime, recently lost to Valparaiso, recently won over Evansville, and recently won over Illinois State.

The Flames average 75.3 points per game while allowing just 69.8 points per contest, which has been one of the better defensive profiles in the conference. UIC shoots 45% from the field while averaging 36.5 rebounds and 14.5 assists per game.

Defensively, the Flames create plenty of disruption with 8.2 steals and 3.7 blocks per game. Their ability to pressure opposing ball handlers and force mistakes often helps them control the pace of the game and limit scoring opportunities for opponents.

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Racers Relying on Offense in Tournament Play

Murray State enters this quarterfinal matchup with a 20-11 overall record and a 12-8 mark in Missouri Valley Conference play. The Racers have been involved in several high-scoring contests recently as they recently lost to Bradley, recently won over Evansville, recently lost to Illinois State, recently lost to Belmont, and recently won over Indiana State.

The Racers average 83.5 points per game while allowing 79.5 points per contest. Murray State shoots 46% from the field and averages 36.6 rebounds per game while also contributing 13.8 assists per game offensively.

One of the key strengths for Murray State is their ability to score in bunches. The Racers are comfortable playing at a fast pace and often push the tempo to create additional possessions. Their 4.0 blocks per game also provide some rim protection on the defensive end.

UIC vs Murray State Pick

Murray State -3

Murray State’s offensive firepower gives them a slight advantage in this matchup. The Racers have consistently shown the ability to score at a high level and can push the tempo when opportunities arise. While UIC has a strong defensive unit, Murray State’s depth and scoring balance should allow them to create enough offense to move on in the MVC Tournament.

UIC vs Murray State Total Pick

Take the over if the total is set at 150

Both teams have shown they can score and create offensive opportunities. Murray State’s up-tempo style often leads to higher scoring games, and UIC has enough offensive capability to contribute points as well. With both teams averaging solid scoring numbers this season, I would lean toward the over if the total lands near this range.

Final Score Prediction: Murray State 82, UIC 76

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