Richmond Spiders vs Elon Phoenix Picks & Predictions Wednesday, December 17, 2025
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If you’re searching for free college basketball picks, this non-conference matchup between Richmond and Elon offers one of the more intriguing contrasts on Wednesday’s slate: a disciplined, efficient road favorite against a high-scoring home underdog that can light up the scoreboard quickly.
Richmond Spiders Breakdown
Richmond enters this game at 9–1 overall and 1–0 on the road, firmly establishing itself as one of the most balanced mid-major teams in the country. The Spiders are averaging 85.6 points per game while allowing just 71.1, a strong differential that reflects their ability to win both fast-paced and half-court games. They’ve also won four straight, including road victories at Belmont and a gritty overtime win over Southern Illinois.
Offensively, Richmond doesn’t rely on one dominant scorer, which makes them difficult to scheme against. Aiden Argabright leads the team at 12.0 PPG, but the Spiders spread the floor well, shoot 47% from the field, and consistently find good looks through ball movement (15.9 assists per game). Their composure late in games has been a major edge, especially in tight road environments.
Defensively, Richmond excels by staying disciplined rather than gambling. They rebound well (39.4 RPG) and limit second-chance opportunities, forcing opponents to score efficiently in the half court. While they don’t rack up blocks, their positional defense and ability to control tempo have allowed them to dictate terms against both strong and average competition.
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Elon Phoenix Breakdown
Elon comes in at 6–4 overall and 3–2 at home, riding a two-game winning streak and showing signs of offensive rhythm. The Phoenix average 86.5 points per game, slightly more than Richmond, but they also allow 79.2 points, which has been their biggest vulnerability against higher-quality opponents.
The engine of Elon’s offense is Chandler Cuthrell, who is having a standout season at 22.7 PPG on an outstanding 54.7% shooting. Cuthrell is a matchup problem who can score at all three levels, and Richmond will need to account for him on every possession. Elon also moves the ball well (16.2 assists per game) and isn’t afraid to push tempo, especially at home.
Defensively, Elon can be inconsistent. While they rebound adequately and block shots at a decent rate, they struggle containing disciplined offenses that make the extra pass. Against teams that execute in the half court, Elon has had trouble stringing together stops, which explains several of their losses despite solid offensive production.
Prediction & Best Bets
This matchup sets up as a classic efficiency vs explosiveness game. Elon’s scoring ability, especially at home, keeps them competitive, but Richmond’s experience, defensive discipline, and ability to close games give them a clear edge. The Spiders are comfortable playing on the road and have consistently handled teams that rely heavily on one primary scorer.
With Richmond favored by around -5.5 and the total sitting near 160.5, the spread is reasonable given the matchup. Elon should score enough to stay involved, but Richmond’s balance and defensive control should separate them late. Betting on sports and on Richmond is easy, but even easier if you use the best sportsbooks. Make sure you know about how the fans are looking on prediction markets for Elon with the social sportsbooks. Getting the most out of your bets on Elon vs Richmond can be done by using the Fanatics Sportsbook promo code.
Best Pick: Richmond Spiders -5.5
Lean: Over 160.5 total points
Final Score Prediction: Richmond 88, Elon 81
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