The Eastern Illinois Panthers are set to face the Iowa State Cyclones in a college basketball clash on December 14, 2025, in Ames, Iowa, with the game scheduled to tip off at 1 p.m. ET, airing on ESPN+. The Cyclones enter this match-up as heavy favorites, with a spread of -41.5 points.
Iowa State is coming off a commanding victory over rival Iowa during the Cy-Hawk game, further solidifying their status as a potential title contender. The Cyclones boast a well-rounded roster featuring All-American forward Joshua Jefferson, veteran point guard Tamin Lipsey, promising freshman Killyan Toure, sharpshooter Milan Momcilovic, and reliable big man Blake Buchanan. Collectively, they represent a formidable challenge for any opponent.
This season, Iowa State has shown they excel against weaker competition, dominating their prior four buy-game opponents by an average margin of 45.3 points per game and successfully covering the spread in three out of four of those encounters. With Eastern Illinois classified similarly as these past competitors, the Cyclones look to leverage their strengths in an attempt to intimidate the Panthers.
The Cyclones’ offense is expected to be relentless, utilizing a rapid transition game complemented by strategic dribble hand-offs and pick-and-roll plays. Their prowess at the rim is notable; Iowa State ranks 18th nationally in field goal percentage at the basket, while Eastern Illinois struggles defensively, currently rated 363rd in field goal percentage allowed at the rim—indicative of a daunting task ahead for the Panthers.
Meanwhile, Eastern Illinois relies on Marty Simmons’ motion offense, characterized by extensive off-ball and on-ball screening. However, this season, the unit ranks poorly in offensive efficiency, coming in at 346th in KenPom’s metrics. The Panthers often resort to mid-range shots, significantly hampered by their inability to secure offensive rebounds and limited outside shooting threats.
The Panthers’ efforts will focus on slowing the game pace and minimizing possessions, as evident from their attempts against stronger opponents like Notre Dame, where they lost by 20 but managed to cover the spread. However, their match-ups against Kentucky and Purdue resulted in heavy defeats, hinting at the uphill battle they face on Sunday.
Given the Cyclones’ dominant form, it wouldn’t be surprising if they push the game well beyond a 40-point margin. Betting predictions favor Iowa State to cover the hefty spread of -41.5, showcasing confidence in their ability to dismantle the Panthers.
In every sense, fans can anticipate an explosive showdown with the Cyclones poised to demonstrate their prowess on the court. As they continue their quest for a championship, every victory, especially against non-conference foes, will be crucial to their overall journey this season.