The NIT kicks off today, and the Tulsa Golden Hurricane hope to begin a successful run with a win over the Stephen F. Austin Lumberjacks at the Reynolds Center.
The Golden Hurricane are among the favorites to win the tournament.
I break down why this could be a difficult opening game for them in my Stephen F. Austin vs Tulsa predictions and college basketball picks for Tuesday, March 17.
Who will win Stephen F. Austin vs Tulsa?
The Lumberjacks won’t keep up with Tulsa’s pace or scoring prowess. Stephen F. Austin prefers to play at a slower tempo, looking to force turnovers to generate offense.
Tulsa can attack the rim and has one of the best 3-point attacks in the nation. The Golden Hurricane are one of the favorites to win the NIT for a reason, and they’ll advance here.
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Stephen F. Austin vs Tulsa prediction
Stephen F. Austin vs Tulsa best bet: Under 154.5 (-110)
The Stephen F. Austin Lumberjacks struggled to find points in the conference tournament. That’s not surprising for an offense ranked 303rd in 2-point accuracy since the start of February.
They struggle to earn or make free throws, and they rank just 267th in assist rate.
The Tulsa Golden Hurricane offense likes to run, but a slower pace may favor them here, as they’ve performed better against more methodical opponents, with their efficient offense still putting up points.
Both teams defend the perimeter well and take care of the basketball. I expect more calculated possessions and a score that goes south of the total.
COVERS INTEL: Tulsa is ranked 63rd overall by KenPom, nearly 30 full spots higher than Stephen F. Austin (91st).Stephen F. Austin vs Tulsa same-game parlay
Stephen F. Austin has stepped up its game against better opposition this season, and playing on the road hasn’t been an issue. Given the expected slower pace, this spread is a bit on the high side.
The Lumberjacks are also one of the best teams in the country at limiting big runs by opponents. Four of their five losses this season were by five or fewer points, and they are 18-7 ATS in their last 25 games.
They’ll keep it close against a Tulsa team that is just 3-8 ATS in its last 11 contests.
Stephen F. Austin vs Tulsa SGP
- Under 154.5
- Stephen F. Austin +7.5
Stephen F. Austin vs Tulsa odds
- Spread: Stephen F. Austin +7.5 (-110) | Tulsa -7.5 (-110)
- Moneyline: Stephen F. Austin +260 | Tulsa -320
- Over/Under: Over 152.5 (-110) | Under 152.5 (-110)
Stephen F. Austin vs Tulsa betting trend to know
Stephen F. Austin have covered the Spread in 18 of their last 25 games (+10.30 Units / 37% ROI). Find more college basketball betting trends for Stephen F. Austin vs. Tulsa.
How to watch Stephen F. Austin vs Tulsa
| Location | Reynolds Center, Tulsa, OK |
| Date | Tuesday, March 17, 2026 |
| Tip-off | 9:00 p.m. ET |
| TV | ESPNU |
Stephen F. Austin vs Tulsa key injuries
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
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