Valparaiso Beacons at Northern Iowa Panthers, Picks and Prediction for Monday, December 29, 2025 Beacons at Panthers Preview

By: Garrett Beaverson Published 12/29/2025, 03:30 AM ET
Use Code PPWC

The Valparaiso Beacons travel to Cedar Falls to take on the Northern Iowa Panthers on Monday, December 29, 2025, at the McLeod Center. Get in on the action with our free NCAAB picks.

Valparaiso Beacons Analysis

Valparaiso enters this contest with a 6-6 overall record and is still searching for consistency in MVC competition. The Beacons have shown scoring punch in recent games and rebound well, but defensive execution and limiting opponent field-goal efficiency remain areas of emphasis.

Team Overview and Metrics

  • Points per game: 72.8

  • Field-goal %: 41%

    Sign Up Get $30 Premium Picks Credit + Exclusive Offers

    Subscribe Now

    I understand that I can unsubscribe at any time. I have read and accepted the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy. I consent that Picks And Parlays may use third-party services to process my data.
  • Rebounds per game: 38.6

  • Assists per game: 12.5

  • Steals per game: 6.6

Strengths

  • Perimeter shooting: Valparaiso shoots respectable percentages from three, with Rakim Chaney averaging around 2 made threes per game.

  • Balanced scoring: Several players contribute points, making it difficult for defenses to lock in on one threat.

  • Rebounding: Valpo averages over 34 rebounds per game, keeping possessions alive.

Weaknesses

  • Defensive field-goal % allowed: Valparaiso allows opponents to shoot efficiently, which Northern Iowa can exploit.

  • Consistency: Recent losses (including an 85โ€“79 defeat) show the Beacons can struggle to close against strong offenses.

Northern Iowa Panthers Analysis

Northern Iowa enters this game at 9-3 overall with a strong home record and a balanced offensive attack. The Panthers score efficiently, protect the ball well, and play aggressive perimeter defense, creating opportunities for steals and transition offense.

Team Overview and Metrics

  • Points per game: 71.2

  • Field-goal %: 46.4%

  • Rebounds per game: 30.6

  • Assists per game: 17.0

  • Steals per game: 8.0

  • Blocks per game: 3.8

The Panthers have gone 6-1 at home and shoot at an efficient clip, putting pressure on defenses to contest inside and outside.

Strengths

  • Efficient offense: Northern Iowa shoots well from the field and moves the ball, reflected in strong assist numbers.

  • Defensive activity: The Panthers generate steals and blocks at a high rate.

Weaknesses

  • Rebounding: Northern Iowaโ€™s rebounding numbers lag slightly, which can affect second-chance scoring.

Standout Players and Key Matchups

Valparaiso

  • Rakim Chaney: Leading perimeter scorer with efficiency from beyond the arc.

  • Owen Dease: Has provided recent scoring lifts and creates opportunities off the bounce.

Northern Iowa

  • Trey Campbell: All-around offensive threat, averaging 13.3 points, 3.6 assists, and 2.3 steals.

  • Leon Bond III: Provides scoring and rebounding help, shooting efficiently over his last stretch.

Valparaiso vs Northern Iowa Prediction Reasoning

Northern Iowaโ€™s combination of efficient shooting, defensive activity, and home crowd energy gives them an edge in this MVC matchup. Valparaisoโ€™s scoring balance and rebounding keep them competitive, but the Panthersโ€™ ability to generate stops and push the pace could make the difference late. Make sure you know about how the fans are looking on prediction markets for Northern Iowa with the Thrillz promo code. Make the most of your bets on Valparaiso by using the sportsbook promos.ย  Make sure when you place your Northern Iowa vs Valparaiso bet you are using the bet365 bonus code.

Final Score Projection: Northern Iowa 74, Valparaiso 69

Betting on College Basketball?

BetMGM Sport

Up To $1500 in Bonus Bets Paid Back if your First Bet Does Not Win

Show Bonus Code
Claim Bonus
Signup Promo Recommended BetMGM Sport Bonus
Min. Deposit $5
Cashable No
FanDuel Sportsbook

New Users โ€“ Bet $5 Get $200 in Bet Reset Tokens for 5 Days

Show Bonus Code
Claim Bonus
Signup Promo Hot Offer FanDuel Sportsbook Bonus
Requirement New Users โ€“ Bet $5 Get $200 in Bet Reset Tokens for 5 Days. (Up to $1,000 Bet Reset Tokens)
Cashable No
DraftKings Sport

New DraftKings Customers: Spend $5+ Get $200 in Bonuses Instantly!

Show Bonus Code
Claim Bonus
Signup Promo Hot Offer DraftKings Sport Bonus
Min. Deposit $5
Odds Requirements -500
Cashable No
Video: World Cup: Mexico vs England BEST Bets & Predictions | July 5, 2026
World Cup: Mexico vs England BEST Bets & Predictions | July 5, 2026
Video: Brazil vs Norway: The Bet You AREN'T Thinking Of! | BEST World Cup Predictions | July 5, 2026
Brazil vs Norway: The Bet You AREN'T Thinking Of! | BEST World Cup Predictions | July 5, 2026

Best Picks

  • Valparaiso +12.5
  • Over 126.5 total points
logo

If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) (IL). Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (MI/NJ/PA/WV/WY), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS OFF (IA), 1-888-532-3500 (VA), 1-800-NEXT STEP (AZ), or call/text TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN). 21+ (18+ WY). AZ/CO/IL/IN/IA/MI/NJ/PA/TN/VA/WV/WY only. Eligibility restrictions apply. T&C's Apply. Void where prohibited. If you click on a link on this site which takes you to a bookmaker or casino and you subsequently open an account, Pick and Parlays may receive a commission. Bets placed are the responsibility of the bettor.

Copyright ยฉ 2026 Picks and Parlays. All rights reserved.

The sports news and information contained at this site is for entertainment purposes only. Any use of this information in violation of laws whether they are federal, state and/or local is prohibited. Picks and Parlays is the nation's premier resource for sports betting and handicapping information.

Sign Up Get $30 Premium Picks Credit + Exclusive Offers
Special Offer
Up To $1500 in Bonus Bets Paid Back if your First Bet Does Not Win
Play now Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or 1-800-MY-RESET (Available in the US) 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY) 1-800-327-5050 (MA), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-981-0023 (PR). 21+ only. Please Gamble Responsibly. See BetMGM.com for Terms. First Bet Offer for new customers only (if applicable). Subject to eligibility requirements. Bonus bets are non-withdrawable. In partnership with Kansas Crossing Casino and Hotel. Promotional offers not available in Mississippi, New York, Ontario, or Puerto Rico.