WICHITA ST SHOCKERS @ USC

A size test for Wichita State

USC’s frontcourt length could pull Will Berg from the paint and leave Wichita State vulnerable on drives and rebounds. USC coach Eric Musselman said his team needs to clean up its defensive rebounding.

Frontcourt availability remains unsettled

Dillon Battie was described as likely to return, while T.J. Williams’ status was less certain after missing Wichita State’s opener. USC coach Eric Musselman said he was concerned about Jacob Cofie playing in Wichita after severe back spasms.

USC’s Ratliffs made an immediate impact

Adonis Ratliff scored 25 points in USC’s opener, while Darius Ratliff added 14 points and five blocks, giving the Trojans another potential edge around the rim.

A neutral-floor opportunity

Although USC is listed as the home team, the game is at the Tahoe Blue Event Center in Stateline, Nevada, giving Wichita State an early opportunity against a ranked opponent on a neutral floor.

Pick Ideas

Angles drawn from the matchup analysis above and refreshed as the news changes. They are a separate read from the LineCrush pick for this matchup, so the two can land on different sides.

Wichita State plus the points

Consider Wichita State +6.5 if available; the spread gives the underdog room, so shop around as prices vary by sportsbook.

Watch the live total before betting

Wait on the 156.5 pregame total and use the opening possessions to assess pace and shot quality; pass if the early flow does not support a clear live lean.