NCAA Tournament Handicapping Preview & Pick: South Region – Lipscomb vs. Iowa State – Friday, March 21, 2025

The 14th-seed Lipscomb Bisons (25-9) take on the third-seed Iowa State Cyclones (24-9) when they meet in the South Region in the tournament on Friday, March 21 at 1:30 PM ET at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. MyBookie currently offers the Cyclones as moderate favorites with a point spread at -14.5 (-115).

Lipscomb Bisons Betting Preview

The Bisons are on a six-game winning streak and have positive energy coming into this tournament. They are coming off a 76-65 triumph over the North Alabama Lions in the ASUN Championship Final.

Their production on offense is led by Jacob Ognacevic, who averages 20.1 points per game on 57.3 percent shooting from the field, as well as leading in rebounds at 8.1 per game. Joe Anderson also plays a key role with 3.9 assists and 12.5 points per game.

Lipscomb averages 79.3 points a game and ranks 54h in the nation. Their defense ranks 51st for allowing 67.3 points per game. This spread is appealing, but they played in a somewhat weaker conference in comparison to the Cyclones.

The Bisons rank 105th overall for their strength of schedule and point margins. Their efficiency on offense per 100 possessions ranks 25th while their defensive efficiency at the same rate ranks 44th.

Iowa State Cyclones Betting Preview

The Cyclones just had their two-game win streak snapped with a 96-92 loss to the BYU Cougars. This was the Big 12 Championship Quarterfinal, where many believed that the Cyclones had a real shot at making the title.

Several players lead their stats and are key to their success. Curtis Jones leads with 17.1 points per game and makes 42.3 percent of his shots. Joshua Jefferson grabs 7.4 boards while Keshon Gilbert has 4.1 assists a game to keep the offense moving.

Iowa State averages 80.4 points per game and ranks 35th. Their defense allows 68.1 points a game and ranks 64th for this effort. This speed is appealing, especially since they did it in a tough conference.

The Cyclones rank 11th overall for their strength of schedule plus point differentials. Their offensive efficiency each 100 possessions ranks 49th while their defense at the same rate ranks 19th.

Odds, Series Trends, and Free Pick

MyBookie showcases appealing Lipscomb Bisons vs. Iowa State Cyclones betting odds that reflect the Cyclones as 14.5-point favorites. Market predictions suggest the Cyclones have a 92.4 percent chance of winning outright.

Lipscomb poses a real threat to the Cyclones since their efficiency on both ends of the floor is respectable. The first half might be sluggish for both teams due to the pressure of the tournament, but eventually the Cyclones should be able to cover the spread.

Final Pick: Iowa State Cyclones -14.5 (-115)