PORTLAND over *Miami (NBA)...Miami started the season in good form, winning 7 of first 9 SU, but since Mid-November, the Heat have slumped badly. Poor play at home has been at the root of Miami’s dropoff, as the Heat are just 2-6 SU and 0-8 against the number in last 8 at American Airlines Arena through Dec. 14. Miami prevailed 107-100 in Dec. 1 meeting, thanks in large part to the absence of Blazer F LaMarcus Aldridge and “off” shooting nights for both Portland G Brandon Roy & F Martell Webster (combined 13 for 39). Portland should avenge earlier loss.
PORTLAND 104 - *Miami 96 RATING - 10

SOUTHERN ILLINOIS over San Francisco (at Las Vegas)... MVC sources say SIU rebuilding job looks on schedule as HC Lowery mixes five newcomers into mix, with Iowa transfer G Tony Freeman (13.2 ppg) making impact. And Salukis unlikely to surrender leads with their deadeye FT shooting (78%). Meanwhile, USF erratic in early going as Dons still seeking reliable diversions for go-to F Lowhorn (19.3 ppg). SIU used to playing in Las Vegas, as this is already Salukis’ third game in Wayne Newton’s hometown TY!
SOUTHERN ILLINOIS 81 - San Francisco 63 RATING - 10