Idaho State Bengals vs Portland State Vikings Picks and Predictions for Sunday March 8 2026
The Idaho State Bengals and Portland State Vikings meet in the Big Sky Championship Second Round on Sunday, March 8, 2026 at Idaho Central Arena in Boise, Idaho. Tipoff is scheduled for 7:30 PM ET and the game will be streamed on ESPN+. Idaho State advanced to this round after winning in the opening round, while Portland State earned a bye directly into the second round based on its conference standing. At the time of this writing the odds were not released. Be sure to check out our free college basketball picks for more predictions and expert analysis on today’s biggest college basketball matchups.
Idaho State Riding Opening-Round Momentum
Idaho State enters the second-round matchup with a 13-19 overall record and a 5-13 mark in Big Sky play. The Bengals advanced in the tournament with a 73-65 win over Northern Arizona in the first round on March 7. In their recent stretch Idaho State recently won over Northern Arizona, recently lost to Sacramento State, recently lost to Weber State, recently won over Montana State, and recently won over Montana.
The Bengals have been competitive offensively this season, averaging 74.5 points per game while allowing 75.9 points per contest. They shoot 45% from the field, average 32.8 rebounds per game, and produce 12.0 assists per contest. Defensively the team contributes 4.3 blocks and 5.4 steals per game, showing an ability to disrupt opposing offenses despite some defensive inconsistencies.
In the opening-round win over Northern Arizona, Connor Hollenbeck led Idaho State with 17 points and also grabbed 13 rebounds, leading the team in both scoring and rebounding. Idaho State dominated the glass 45-26, which was the key statistical advantage in the victory. The tournament angle for the Bengals is the short turnaround, as they must play again less than 24 hours later while trying to maintain their rebounding advantage.
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Portland State Fresh After First-Round Bye
Portland State enters this matchup with a 19-10 overall record and a 13-5 record in Big Sky play, earning a bye into the second round of the conference tournament. In recent games the Vikings recently won over Weber State, recently lost to Montana, recently lost to Montana State, recently lost to Eastern Washington, and recently won over Idaho.
Portland State has produced solid offensive numbers throughout the season. The Vikings average 76.5 points per game while allowing 69.9 points per contest. They shoot 47% from the field, average 37.0 rebounds per game, and record 14.9 assists per contest. Defensively the team generates 3.9 blocks and 7.6 steals per game, which often leads to transition scoring opportunities.
In their most recent victory, an 84-60 win over Weber State, Jaylin Henderson led Portland State with 20 points and also recorded 10 assists, orchestrating the offense throughout the game. Tre-Vaughn Minott led the team in rebounding with 9 boards, helping the Vikings control the glass. Portland State shot an impressive 56% from the field and forced 14 turnovers, highlighting their offensive efficiency and defensive pressure entering the tournament.
Idaho State Bengals vs Portland State Vikings Pick
Idaho State vs Portland State Spread Pick
- Portland State Vikings Moneyline
Portland State enters this matchup with several advantages, including the rest factor after receiving a tournament bye and the stronger overall defensive numbers. The Vikings allow fewer points per game and have shown the ability to score efficiently, particularly in their most recent win over Weber State. Idaho State has momentum from its opening-round victory, but the quick turnaround could affect energy levels. With Portland State’s balanced offense and defensive pressure, the Vikings should have the edge in this second-round matchup.
Idaho State vs Portland State Total Pick
- Over
I like the over in this matchup because both teams have shown the ability to score consistently. Idaho State averages 74.5 points per game, while Portland State averages 76.5 points per contest, suggesting a game with plenty of offensive opportunities. Idaho State also plays at a faster tempo, and Portland State’s efficiency from the field could push the scoring pace higher. With both teams capable of putting points on the board, this matchup has the potential to reach the over.
Final Score Prediction: Portland State Vikings 81, Idaho State Bengals 72
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