The Chicago State Cougars travel to Brooklyn on Wednesday to take on the Long Island University Sharks in the quarterfinal round of the Northeast Conference Tournament. Long Island enters this contest as a heavy favorite after finishing at the top of the NEC standings, while Chicago State struggled through a difficult season in the league. Here, I break down this matchup and you will find my Chicago State vs Long Island University prediction right here.
Our Chicago State vs Long Island University Pick
Pick: Long Island University -11.5 ATS PRO
Confidence: 4 out of 5
Game Snapshot
Matchup: Chicago State @ Long Island University
Date & Time: Wednesday, March 4, 2026, 7:00 PM ET
Venue: Steinberg Wellness Center, Brooklyn, New York
Broadcast: NEC Front Row
Key Storylines
Long Island University enters the NEC Tournament as the conference’s top seed with a 21-10 overall record and 15-3 mark in league play, establishing itself as the favorite in this game. Chicago State finished near the bottom of the standings at 7-24 overall with a 5-13 conference record, making this an uphill battle for the Cougars.
The Sharks have been strong at home this season and maintain a significant advantage in both offensive production and defensive consistency compared to Chicago State.
Chicago State will be looking to steal momentum in a tournament setting, but past recent results suggest a major gap in talent and efficiency between these two teams.
Key Players
Long Island University Sharks:
Jamal Fuller – One of LIU’s primary scoring options, Fuller has been a consistent offensive force, averaging around 16.6 PPG and leading the team in scoring while contributing rebounds and secondary playmaking. His experience and scoring ability will be essential for LIU in controlling the pace.
Malachi Davis – Davis brings scoring and playmaking ability from the guard spot. He has posted double-digit scoring games and can create shots off the dribble, adding depth to LIU’s offense.
Greg Gordon – Gordon adds size and rebounding inside, averaging roughly 5.6 rebounds per game while providing secondary scoring. His presence on the boards could be key against a smaller Chicago State frontcourt.
Chicago State Cougars:
CJ Ray – One of the more consistent scorers for Chicago State, Ray has led the Cougars in scoring with approximately 13.6 PPG. He will need to have an efficient night to keep Chicago State competitive.
Jalen Forrest – Forrest has been a contributor offensively, recording double figures in multiple games and providing athleticism. His production can spark Chicago State if he gets early opportunities.
Stat Comparison
Statistic
Chicago State
Long Island University
Points per game
65.5
74.1
Points allowed per game
76.0
71.5
Team Field Goal %
40%
48%
Rebounds per game
31.3
35.2
Assists per game
11.6
13.8
Head-to-Head & Betting Trends
LIU is 2-0 against Chicago State this season, winning both of those games by double-digits.
Long Island went 15-16 against the spread this season.
Chicago State is 14-15-1 against the spread going into postseason play.
Chicago State vs Long Island University Model Projection
Score Projection: Chicago State 64 – Long Island University 76 ATS PRO
Win Probability: Chicago State 12%, Long Island University 88% ATS PRO
Final Thoughts
There is a clear advantage for Long Island University in this contest, which enters the NEC Tournament with a superior record, efficient offensive metrics, and the ability to defend the Cougars’ limited scoring options. Chicago State has battled throughout the season but has struggled to maintain consistency against stronger teams. I will be laying the points with LIU here, as they should advance to the NEC semifinals without too much trouble.
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