The Marquette Golden Eagles are set to face off against the Butler Bulldogs in a highly anticipated Big East matchup on Friday, January 23, 2026. This exciting game, scheduled to tip off at 8 p.m. ET at the historic Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana, presents an opportunity for both teams to shine amidst their respective seasons.
Currently, Marquette holds a record of 7-13, with a 2-7 mark in Big East play, struggling with consistency this season. They have faced significant challenges, including a disappointing streak of 15 losses against the spread, evidenced by their recent close defeat at home against Providence, where they fell 105-104 in an overtime thriller. The Golden Eagles appear to be undergoing a transitional phase, reflected in their 2-11 ATS record in their last 13 games against conference rivals.
On the other side, the Butler Bulldogs are navigating a slightly improved path, boasting a 12-7 overall record and a 3-5 standing in the Big East. Despite facing a tough stretch earlier in January with four consecutive losses, Butler has shown resilience by bouncing back with two solid victories, including a recent 87-80 win against DePaul. The Bulldogs have proven to be the more efficient team statistically, particularly in key areas such as rebounding and free-throw frequency.
In terms of betting odds, Marquette is listed as an underdog with a moneyline of +200, while Butler is favored at -250. The spread sits at Butler -5.5, suggesting an expectation of a competitive game. The over/under stands at 160.5, though historical data indicates that recent meetings between the two teams have often resulted in lower scoring, with a notable tilt towards the Under in seven of the last eight matchups.
Analysts predict a score of Butler 84, Marquette 75, leaning towards Butler covering the spread at -5.5. With both teams capable of quick possessions, this matchup could showcase a blend of strategic play and exciting moments on the court.
As the teams prepare to clash, fans are hopeful for a thrilling display of college basketball talent and an opportunity for the Bulldogs to continue their upward trajectory, while the Golden Eagles search for a turning point in their season.