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St. John’s (3-1) vs Iowa State (4-0)
- When: Nov 24 2025, 4:30 PM
- Where: Michelob ULTRA Arena, Paradise, NV, USA
- Where to watch: TruTV
(14) St. John’s vs (16) Iowa State Preview & Prediction
Spread: Iowa State -2.0
Moneyline: Iowa State (-130)
Total: 160.0
St. John’s Red Storm Betting Breakdown
St. John’s steps into Las Vegas looking like a team with real potential but still needing to prove it against top competition. Their only setback came in a high-scoring shootout with Alabama, and although they bounced back with convincing wins over William and Mary and Bucknell, the level of difficulty spikes sharply here.
Rick Pitino knows exactly what this matchup represents. His group has talent, size and scoring depth, but Iowa State’s physical rebounding and defensive intensity present a far tougher test than anything St. John’s has seen since opening night. Bryce Hopkins leads the way at 15.5 points per game and is coming off his most efficient outing of the year, but Pitino has made it clear that the real evaluation begins against opponents of this caliber. With Hopkins heating up from deep and Zuby Ejiofor continuing to produce inside, the Red Storm bring a balanced attack into this matchup, but they will need precision and toughness to keep pace.
Iowa State Cyclones Betting Breakdown
Iowa State arrives unbeaten and untested by a ranked opponent, but their early performances have shown a team with strong identity and continuity. They handled Mississippi State with ease earlier this month and now get their first shot at a Top 25 foe. The Cyclones rely heavily on returning production, and that familiarity shows in their pace, spacing and physical edge.
Tamin Lipsey has been one of the most impactful players in the nation to start the season, averaging 19 points while controlling tempo. Joshua Jefferson and Milan Momcilovic add versatility and shot-making that allow Iowa State to stretch defenses in multiple ways. The coaching staff respects St. John’s scoring threats, but they also believe their rebounding advantage and defensive physicality can dictate the style of play. With their coach returning to Las Vegas in full business mode, the Cyclones enter confident and grounded.
Prediction & Betting Angle
Oddsmakers have Iowa State as a small favorite, and the matchup lines up well for them. Their experience, physicality and steady half-court execution give them an edge in a game likely to feature momentum swings and high scoring. St. John’s has firepower, but Iowa State’s balance and two way consistency make the difference late.
Final Score: Iowa State 85, St. John’s 80
Lean: Iowa State -2.0
Total: Over 160.0
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
