Chicago State Cougars vs Long Island Sharks Picks and Predictions for Wednesday March 4 2026
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The Chicago State Cougars travel to the Steinberg Wellness Center to take on the Long Island Sharks on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, with tip-off set for 7:00 PM ET on NEC Front Row. This Northeast Conference matchup features a struggling Chicago State squad looking to play spoiler against one of the league’s top teams in Long Island. At the time of this writing the odds were not released. Be sure to check out our free college basketball picks for more expert analysis on today’s action.
Chicago State Searching for Momentum on the Road
Chicago State enters this contest at 7-24 overall and 5-13 in NEC play, including a difficult 5-13 conference mark and just five wins away from home all season. The Cougars have dropped four of their last five games, recently losing to Wagner 80-61 and Long Island 73-56, with their lone win in that stretch coming against Central Connecticut State 70-51.
Offensively, Chicago State averages 65.5 points per game while shooting 40% from the field. They struggle to generate consistent scoring opportunities, averaging just 11.6 assists per contest. On the glass, they pull down 31.3 rebounds per game, which often puts them at a disadvantage against stronger frontcourts.
Defensively, the Cougars allow 76.0 points per game and block just 1.2 shots per contest. One bright spot has been their activity in the passing lanes, averaging 8.2 steals per game. If they are going to compete here, they will need to turn defense into easy transition points.
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Long Island Eyeing Strong Finish at Home
Long Island comes in at 21-10 overall and an impressive 15-3 in NEC play, firmly positioning themselves near the top of the conference standings. The Sharks are 15-3 at home in league play and have won four of their last five games, including a recent 74-60 victory over Fairleigh Dickinson and a 73-56 road win over Chicago State.
The Sharks average 74.1 points per game while shooting an efficient 48% from the field. They move the ball well, averaging 13.8 assists per contest, and control the glass with 35.2 rebounds per game. Their balanced attack makes them tough to defend in half-court sets.
Defensively, Long Island allows 71.5 points per game and protects the rim with 5.3 blocks per contest, a significant edge in this matchup. Their ability to contest shots and limit second-chance opportunities has been a key factor in their 15 conference wins.
Chicago State vs Long Island Pick
Chicago State vs Long Island Spread Pick
- Long Island Sharks - Spread (if favored)
Long Island already handled Chicago State 73-56 in their recent meeting, and the matchup advantages remain clear. The Sharks are more efficient offensively, stronger on the boards, and significantly better defensively, especially at protecting the rim. Chicago State has struggled mightily on the road and has had difficulty keeping games close against the top teams in the NEC. Long Island’s balance and home-court advantage should allow them to control the tempo again.
Chicago State vs Long Island Total Pick
- Under #
I expect a slower-paced game similar to their last meeting, which finished with 129 total points. Chicago State struggles to score consistently, and Long Island plays solid half-court defense that limits easy looks. With the Cougars averaging just 65.5 points per game and the Sharks allowing only 71.5, I see this contest staying under the total.
Final Score Prediction: Long Island 74, Chicago State 60
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