Western Illinois vs SMU Prediction - College Basketball Picks 11/8/23

The Western Illinois and SMU Mustangs face off on Wednesday in a college basketball showdown at SMU Moody Coliseum. Here's a free pick on this game.

SMU Looks to Build on First Game

SMU comes into this game with a 1-0 record, and they were able to beat Southwestern Assemblies of God 82-63 in the first game. At half-time, they were up 43-39, and the defense wasn’t good enough. In the second half, the defense was a lot better, giving up only 24 points. In this game, SMU is going to need to play a more complete game with the defense. SMU shot 42.3 percent from the field. One area they really need to improve on is from deep. They hit only two of the 18 shots from deep. Zurich Phelps finished with 24 points, five assists, and three rebounds. 

Western Illinois Falls in Overtime

Western Illinois faced off against the UTSA Roadrunners in the first game of the season, and they were defeated 78-68. They played well most of the game, but in overtime, they only scored three points, and that led to the 10 point defeat. Western Illinois shot only 32.8 percent from the field and 21.4 percent from behind the three point line. James Dent Jr had a strong game, finishing with 20 points, seven rebounds, and two assists. Shay Davis finished with 12 points, two rebounds, and two assists. Jesiah West finished with 11 points and 13 rebounds. In this game, Western Illinois needs to try to find some more offensive success from the floor.