The No. 3 seed Iowa State Cyclones (24-9) enter the NCAA Tournament with a reputation for balanced efficiency on both ends of the floor. However, they must be on high alert as they face the No. 14 seed Lipscomb Bisons (25-9) in the first round.
The Bisons are riding a six-game winning streak and boast an offense capable of keeping pace with high-level competition. Will Iowa State cruise to victory, or does Lipscomb have the makings of a Cinderella story?
Iowa State vs. Lipscomb Betting Preview
All Iowa State vs. Lipscomb odds are from DraftKings Sportsbook and are correct as of Tuesday, March 19, 2025.
- Spread: Iowa State -14.5
- Moneyline: Iowa State -1400 | Lipscomb +800
- Over/Under: 143.5 points
- Game Time: Friday, March 21, 2025 | 1:30 p.m. EST
- Location: Fiserv Forum | Milwaukee, WI
- How to Watch: TNT
The Cyclones enter this matchup as significant favorites, reflecting their superior strength of schedule and high-level efficiency on both ends. However, Iowa State is just 5-5 against the spread in its last 10 games, raising questions about its ability to cover a large number. Lipscomb, meanwhile, has been strong overall against the spread (15-10-4) but only 3-3 in its last six despite winning each outright. If the Bisons keep their offense rolling, they could make this more competitive than the odds suggest.
Iowa State vs. Lipscomb CSN Winning Probability
- Iowa State: 92.3%
- Lipscomb: 7.7%
CSN’s probability model heavily favors Iowa State, aligning closely with Vegas’ stance on this matchup. However, upsets do happen, and with Lipscomb’s offense capable of explosive scoring, their slim probability isn’t a complete dismissal of their potential to keep this game interesting.
Prediction for Iowa State vs. Lipscomb
Iowa State has the firepower to control this game from start to finish. The Cyclones rank in the top 20 in offensive and defensive efficiency, making them a well-rounded threat in the Tournament. However, their defensive execution will be crucial, as Lipscomb averages 79.3 points per game while allowing just 67.3.
The Bisons have won six straight, showing they can handle pressure situations. Their ASUN Tournament title was impressive, but stepping up in competition against a battle-tested Big 12 opponent is an entirely different challenge. Iowa State will need to shake off their loss to BYU in the Big 12 quarterfinals, where they allowed a tournament-record 18 three-pointers.
KEEP READING: March Madness Fun Facts: Surprising Stats and Records You Need To Know
Ultimately, Iowa State’s depth, efficiency, and experience should win out. Lipscomb may keep it close early, but expect the Cyclones to pull away late and advance comfortably to the second round.
Prediction: Iowa State 84, Lipscomb 65
Don’t miss a moment of March Madness! Download your 2025 NCAA Tournament printable bracket and stay on top of every game, matchup, and Cinderella story. Get yours now!
