The stage is set for an exciting NIT quarterfinal matchup as the Kent State Golden Flashes take on the Loyola Chicago Ramblers tonight at Joseph J. Gentile Arena in Chicago. Both teams enter the game with identical records of 24-11, and the stakes couldn't be higher as they vie for a spot in the semifinals.
Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET, and the game will be broadcast live on ESPN2. Loyola Chicago is currently favored by 5 points, with a moneyline of -225, while the total points are set at 144.5.
Kent State comes into this game riding a wave of momentum after impressive victories over St. Bonaventure and Stanford. The Golden Flashes have scored 72 or more points in 12 of their last 13 games, showcasing a potent offense. Leading the charge is senior guard Jalen Sullinger, who averaged 15.8 points per game and exploded for 34 points in the second-round win against Stanford. His ability to score and create plays has been crucial for Kent State's success in the NIT.
Meanwhile, Loyola Chicago has also made its mark in the tournament, managing to secure tight wins against San Jose State and San Francisco. The Ramblers' path to the quarterfinals included a nail-biting 77-76 victory over top-seeded San Francisco, where junior guard Jayden Dawson shone brightly, scoring a career-high 35 points. Dawson's performance has been a bright spot for Loyola, as he leads the team with an average of 13.8 points per game.
Both teams have shown resilience and skill throughout their respective NIT runs. Kent State's offense excels in isolation plays, effectively utilizing Sullinger and fellow guard Delrecco Gillespie, who averages 12.7 points and 8.1 rebounds per game. Their ability to exploit defensive gaps has been a key factor in their scoring success.
On the defensive end, Kent State ranks 35th nationally in opponent rebounds per game, allowing just 31.7 rebounds per game, and they generate ample turnovers, ranking 87th in turnover margin at +2.2. This defensive prowess will be vital against a Loyola Chicago team that has been inconsistent on offense, ranking just 151st in defensive efficiency.
As for Loyola Chicago, their defense has been a mixed bag. They rank 65th nationally in defensive rebounding percentage, but they have struggled against isolation plays, allowing 1.09 points per possession on dribble jumpers. This weakness could be a significant advantage for Kent State, especially with their high-scoring capability.
In terms of betting, Dan Johnson has made his best bet for this matchup Kent State +4.5 (-105), citing the Golden Flashes' strong rebounding advantage and their ability to exploit Loyola's defensive lapses. With Kent State's depth and talent, they are well-equipped to keep the game competitive, even on the road.
Looking at the statistics, both teams have shown a tendency to play under the total points in recent games. Kent State's road games have trended under, with a record of 4-11 on overs this season. Loyola Chicago's home games have also seen a similar trend, being 7-8-1 on overs this season. This could indicate a lower-scoring affair, aligning with the betting line of 144.5 total points.
As the game approaches, experts are predicting a close contest, with many believing that Kent State will cover the spread. The Golden Flashes have shown they can perform under pressure, and their recent form suggests they are more than capable of pulling off an upset.
In the historical context of the NIT, both teams have had their share of success. Kent State has qualified for the NIT multiple times since 1985, while Loyola Chicago has a storied history, reaching the NIT championship in 1939 and 1943.
With both teams eager to advance, fans can expect a thrilling matchup filled with intensity and skill. As the clock ticks down to tip-off, the anticipation builds. Will Kent State continue its impressive run, or will Loyola Chicago leverage its home-court advantage to secure a spot in the semifinals?
For those looking to catch the action, remember to tune in at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN2. This is a game you won't want to miss!
