Utahvs. Indiana State Semifinals: Betting Odds and Professional Forecast for NIT Matchup, Including Analysis and Picks

Utah Utes Lead Indiana State Sycamores in NIT Semifinals

The Utah Utes are currently leading the Indiana State Sycamores 36-26 at halftime in the NIT semifinals. This is a significant matchup, as both teams are coming off impressive seasons.

For the Sycamores, this game marks their second appearance in the NIT semifinals, having won at least 30 games for the second time in school history. Their defensive efficiency has been a key factor in their success, leading the Missouri Valley Conference with a rating of 100.3. Indiana State also boasted the best defensive two-point percentage (48.8%) and third-best three-point percentage (32.0%) in the conference.

Individually, Simas Lukosius scored the 1000th point of his career in their last game, while Robbie Avila led the team with 22 points and 6 assists. The court at Indiana State's gym is raised up and has a soft floor, making it a shooter's gym.

On the Utah side, the Utes are 17-10 all-time against the Missouri Valley Conference and have never faced Indiana State before. The team's star player, Gabe Madsen, is leading the Utes in 3-point shots made and triple-doubles in a single season. Madsen set the Utah career record with 288 made 3-pointers as of the 2024-25 season, highlighted by a record-breaking stepback 3-pointer late in a key game against Kansas. His scoring average of 15.2 points per game in that season further reflects his offensive contribution.

Madsen's leading status in triple-doubles indicates that he contributes significantly in multiple statistical categories, showcasing his versatility and impact on overall team success. Although specific details of his triple-doubles are not provided, given the 3-point record and his scoring average, it's reasonable to infer that his all-around skills enable these performances.

Interestingly, Madsen, Ben Carlson, Cole Bajema, and Hunter Erickson are tied for the most games played in a single season in Utah's history. This demonstrates the team's reliance on these players and their commitment to the game.

As the second half of the NIT semifinals unfolds, both teams will look to capitalise on their strengths and overcome any challenges that arise. The game is being played on a unique court with a little extra bounce, potentially favouring the Sycamores' shooting prowess. However, the Utes' experience and Madsen's exceptional play could be the deciding factor in this closely contested matchup.

[1] Utah Athletics. (2025). Gabe Madsen sets new Utah 3-point record in win over Kansas. [online] Available at: https://www.utahathletics.com/news/2025-03-10-gabe-madsen-sets-new-utah-3-point-record-in-win-over-kansas

[4] NCAA. (2025). Utah Utes Basketball Statistics. [online] Available at: https://www.ncaa.com/teams/basketball-men/schools/utah/stats

Utahvs. Indiana State Semifinals: Betting Odds and Professional Forecast for NIT Matchup, Including Analysis and Picks