Jim Feist

The Wichita State Shockers (15-10, 5-7 AAC) are set to face the Florida Atlantic Owls (15-10, 8-4 AAC) on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at the Eleanor R. Baldwin Arena in Boca Raton, Florida. The Shockers are on a four-game winning streak, including a notable overtime victory against #14 Memphis. During this stretch, they've dominated the boards, averaging a +15.0 rebounding margin over their opponents. The Owls have won five consecutive games, showcasing offensive strength by scoring 79 points or more in each contest. Their balanced attack features eight players averaging at least seven points per game. Wichita State: Xavier Bell is the leading scorer with 14.5 points per game. Corey Washington who averages 13.7 points and 8.0 rebounds per game; recently named the Oscar Robertson National Player of the Week. Florida Atlantic: Kaleb Glenn: Top scorer with 12.8 points per game. This is the fourth meeting between the two programs. Florida Atlantic has won the last two encounters, including a 95-82 overtime victory last season. Both teams enter this game on winning streaks, setting the stage for a competitive matchup. This should be a high scoring game but I am siding with Wichita State in this one.  

The Phoenix Suns (26-28) are set to face the San Antonio Spurs (23-29) on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at the Moody Center in Austin, Texas. This matchup marks a special occasion as the Spurs host the game at the Moody Center, home to the University of Texas Longhorns. Notably, Phoenix's Kevin Durant returns to the arena where he showcased his collegiate talents during the 2006-07 season. Durant has expressed deep appreciation for Austin, reflecting on the city's influence on his personal and professional growth. 

Currently on a three-game losing streak, the Suns are eager to reverse their fortunes. Despite high expectations, their 26-28 record places them 11th in the Western Conference, just outside the play-in tournament spots. Offensively, Phoenix averages 113.2 points per game, ranking 14th in the league, with Kevin Durant leading the team at 27.3 points per game. 

The Spurs have shown improvement this season, surpassing their win totals from the previous two seasons with a 23-29 record. They currently sit 12th in the Western Conference, 3.5 games behind the final play-in spot. Recent acquisition De'Aaron Fox has been impactful, averaging 21.6 points and 7.8 assists over his first five games with San Antonio. 

Victor Wembanyama: The Spurs' All-Star center is listed as doubtful due to illness. His potential absence could significantly impact San Antonio's interior defense and rebounding. Charles Bassey: Serving as a backup center, Bassey is sidelined with a sprained medial collateral ligament, further thinning the Spurs' frontcourt depth. 

Given the potential absence of Wembanyama and the Suns' determination to end their losing streak, Phoenix holds the advantage here tonight. Injuries and Illness will play the biggest part tonight as the Suns are the healthier team. Play the Suns. 

The Ohio State Buckeyes (15-11, 7-8 Big Ten) are set to host the Northwestern Wildcats (13-13, 4-11 Big Ten) on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at Value City Arena in Columbus, Ohio. Ohio State is coming off a narrow 86-83 loss to Michigan, where freshman forward Devin Royal led the team with 26 points and five rebounds. Despite the loss, the Buckeyes have shown offensive prowess, averaging 82.5 points over their last four games. However, defensive lapses have been a concern, as they've allowed an average of 80.5 points in the same span. 

Northwestern, on the other hand, is on a three-game losing streak, most recently falling 68-64 to Nebraska. The Wildcats held a 15-point halftime lead but were unable to maintain their advantage. Sophomore guard Nick Martinelli matched his career-high with 23 points and added nine rebounds in the effort. The Wildcats have struggled offensively, averaging 70 points per game during their losing streak. 

Ohio State: Devin Royal has been a standout freshman, consistently leading the team in scoring. His performance will be crucial for the Buckeyes' success.

Northwestern: Nick Martinelli's recent offensive surge provides a spark for the Wildcats. His ability to score and rebound makes him a dual threat.

Give Ohio State's recent high scoring trend and their home court here tonight, I look for a high scoring game in this one. Your free play is on the OVER.