James Madison Dukes at Arkansas State Red Wolves (January 3, 2026) Men’s College Basketball

• Game Time: 3:00 PM ET

• Location: Jonesboro, AR (First National Bank Arena)

• Point Spread: Arkansas State -9.5 (Open: -8.5)

• Over/Under: 160.5

Sun Belt Conference play resumes with a matchup featuring contrasting early-season trajectories. Arkansas State enters unbeaten in league games and riding strong home momentum, while James Madison looks to rebound from a pair of conference losses following a challenging non-conference road trip. The stylistic clash pits the Red Wolves’ efficient free-throw shooting and home dominance against the Dukes’ perimeter-oriented attack.

Key Matchup to Watch

Perimeter defense versus three-point volume stands out as the critical pressure point. James Madison’s reliance on outside shots could be tested by Arkansas State’s ability to close out on shooters, while the Dukes must contest the Red Wolves’ attempts to prevent easy rhythm buckets in a potentially up-tempo environment.

Total Outlook (O/U 160.5)

Both teams play at moderate paces, with Arkansas State’s home efficiency potentially pushing scoring through free throws and transition. James Madison’s three-point dependence could lead to variable output, while the Red Wolves’ strong foul shooting adds reliable points. The interaction of defensive pressure and perimeter shooting suggests a total influenced heavily by shot-making and trips to the line.

James Madison Dukes

• Record: 7-7 (conference 0-2)

• Coach: Preston Spradlin (2nd season)

• Preseason Conference Poll: 1st in Sun Belt

• Preseason All-Conference Selections: Bradley Douglas (1st team)

• Last Game: December 29 – Arkansas 103, James Madison 74. The Dukes struggled against a ranked opponent’s hot shooting and transition game, allowing Arkansas to pull away with a big run. Bradley Douglas provided a bright spot with efficient scoring from deep, while Justin McBride contributed inside, but defensive lapses and rebounding issues proved costly in a lopsided defeat. This performance highlighted areas needing improvement heading into conference road games.

• This Game: James Madison relies on perimeter play and guard-driven offense, with players like Bradley Douglas capable of heating up from beyond the arc. The team features solid depth in the backcourt and aims to control tempo through ball movement. On the road against a strong home team, rebounding and limiting second-chance opportunities will be critical factors.

Arkansas State Red Wolves

• Record: 10-4 (conference 2-0)

• Coach: Bryan Hodgson (2nd season)

• Preseason Conference Poll: 2nd in Sun Belt

• Preseason All-Conference Selections: Chandler Jackson (2nd team)

• Last Game: December 30 – Arkansas Tech 63, Arkansas State 107. The Red Wolves dominated a Division II opponent with hot perimeter shooting, connecting on a season-high 17 three-pointers while forcing 27 turnovers. Balanced scoring saw TJ Caldwell and Kyle Hayman each pour in 17 points, with multiple players reaching double figures and contributing steals. This tune-up performance showcased depth and defensive pressure ahead of resuming conference action.

• This Game: Arkansas State thrives at home with aggressive defense and high free-throw volume, supported by balanced scoring options. The team uses crowd energy to dictate pace and excels in transition opportunities. Facing a perimeter-heavy visitor, protecting the paint while maintaining discipline on closeouts will play a key role.