Hopefully, Thursday didn't completely bust your bracket and you won some wagers. Like every day f...

<p>Hopefully, Thursday didn't completely bust your bracket and you won some wagers. Like every day for the rest of the tournament, Sam Oshtry and Brenden Deeg are back with our picks, favorite underdog moneyline plays, and survivor winners.</p><blockquote><p>👉 <strong><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3503391">Bet on March Madness on theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><p>Deeg and Oshtry combined for a 4-1 record on Thursday's game picks, and both of their survivor selections made it onto the next round. Here's what the duo likes on the final day of the first round:</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796824/Game_Picks-Orange.jpg?ts=1754581818" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796824/Game_Picks-Orange.jpg?ts=1754581818 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796824/Game_Picks-Orange.jpg?ts=1754581818 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796824/Game_Picks-Orange.jpg?ts=1754581818 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796824/Game_Picks-Orange.jpg?ts=1754581818 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796824/Game_Picks-Orange.jpg?ts=1754581818 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=7fe5cf85-380e-4419-a73a-95bca2047fc8&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=43&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=23&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3503391">No. 10 Santa Clara (+3.5) over No. 7 Kentucky</a></h3><p>Kentucky is 4-6 in its last 10 games and on upset watch in the Round of 64. While this is Santa Clara's first tournament appearance since 1996, the Broncos have the pieces for a deep run. They've found success against power conference opponents, including wins over Xavier and Minnesota and a close loss to Arizona State. While those teams aren't as talented as Kentucky, Santa Clara's No. 34 KenPom ranking indicates it can compete with high-major teams. - <em>Oshtry</em></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=ffb634ec-c4a6-42c2-9aff-b19baf6f7c7f&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=11&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=6&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3503391">No. 11 Miami (OH) (+11.5) over No. 6 Tennessee</a></h3><p>March is where magic happens. Despite all the chatter surrounding Miami of Ohio's ridiculously easy schedule, defeating SMU in the First Four proved the RedHawks belong in the field. This feels like a group with the makings of a Cinderella following an undefeated regular season. Regardless of whether they can pull off the upset, Tennessee doesn't deserve to be a double-digit favorite. The Vols are limping into the tournament after dropping four of their last six games. Nate Ament and Ja'Kobi Gillespie, Tennessee's two best players, have been too inconsistent to trust to cover a big spread over a hot team. - <em>Oshtry</em></p><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=a4d9a0e2-24ac-4ba7-b74e-7ebeaf282d6a&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=41&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=21&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3503391">Hofstra team total over 73.5</a></h3><p>Hofstra averages 75.6 points per game and shoots nearly 37% from three. Alabama allows 83.5 points per game as the 14th-worst scoring defense out of 365 eligible programs. This will be a fast-paced, high-scoring affair featuring a plethora of shot attempts, but Alabama couldn't stop a high school team. Although Hofstra played three high-major programs this season and averaged 76 points in those matchups, none of those teams were as weak defensively as the Crimson Tide. - <em>Oshtry</em></p><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=35d6e357-6f30-4005-aab3-1a55de645a5c&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=43&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=23&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3503391">No. 7 UCLA (-5.5) over No. 10 UCF</a></h3><p>Despite encountering a few bumps in the road this season, Mick Cronin's team enters the tournament red-hot. The Bruins reeled off wins over Michigan State, Illinois, and Nebraska over the last month and made a run to the Big Ten Tournament semifinals.</p><p>Bruins guard Donovan Dent, one of the best floor generals in the country, has been playing out of his mind. He'll face a UCF squad that ranks 294th in steals and 264th in defensive rating - meaning the Knights are one of the worst defenses the Bruins have seen all season. After a 17-4 start to the year, UCF has lost seven of its last 11 contests and is trending in the wrong direction. I expect the Bruins to take care of business Friday night. - <em>Deeg</em></p><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=0214e2bf-08db-474f-98e7-633d6c43f1ca&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=21&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=11&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3503391">No. 15 Furman (+20.5) over No. 2 UConn</a></h3><p>UConn started the season 18-1 with its only loss coming to Arizona, but the Huskies have looked like a completely different team down the stretch. They've dropped three of their last eight games, including a bad home loss to Creighton and a blowout defeat to St. John's in the Big East final. Dan Hurley's squad has gone ice-cold from the 3-point line, shooting 32% or worse in five of its last seven contests.</p><p>Furman dealt with a ton of injuries earlier in the season and ended up the No. 6 seed in the Southern Conference as a result, but the team is healthy at the right time. The Paladins have the size to deal with UConn, boasting two 6-foot-11 forwards in Cooper Bowser and Charles Johnston. They're also a top-60 rebounding team in the country and have star power in freshman guard Alex Wilkins, who averages 17-plus points per game and deserves more national recognition. - <em>Deeg</em></p><blockquote><p>👉<strong> <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3503391">Bet on March Madness on theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827009/Underdogs-orange.jpg?ts=1773845231" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827009/Underdogs-orange.jpg?ts=1773845231 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827009/Underdogs-orange.jpg?ts=1773845231 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827009/Underdogs-orange.jpg?ts=1773845231 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827009/Underdogs-orange.jpg?ts=1773845231 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827009/Underdogs-orange.jpg?ts=1773845231 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=ca4a7814-f7a0-4e27-8da2-e141a282c68d&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=7&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=2&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3503391">No. 12 Akron (+250) over No. 5 Texas Tech</a></h3><p>Akron is the smallest team in the field by average height, but Texas Tech doesn't have the size to bully Akron in the paint. Without JT Toppin, one of the nation's best players, Texas Tech's frontcourt has been a non-factor. Since Toppin went down, the Red Raiders are 3-3. Akron is one of the country's best 3-point shooting teams and plays an up-tempo style that Texas Tech's defense can't contain. It feels like a classic 12-over-5 upset is brewing. - <em>Oshtry</em></p><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=35de7e2a-f474-41bd-b1e4-5549dbd4bca3&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=6&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=1&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3503391">No. 13 Hofstra (+500) over No. 4 Alabama</a></h3><p>Hofstra plays the exact style of basketball you want when homing in on a potential double-digit seed winning its first game. The Pride rank 35th in rebounding and 3-point percentage, and they've got star power in Cruz Davis, who averages over 20 points per game. They also play at a snail's pace, ranking 330th in tempo. Slowing the game down and limiting possessions is crucial to beating a fast-paced Alabama team.</p><p>The Crimson Tide don't defend well - they're 267th in defensive rating - and don't force many turnovers. There's also a dark cloud over the program after Aden Holloway's suspension. Hofstra is a nightmare first-round matchup for Alabama regardless, and the Pride will give Nate Oats' team fits Friday afternoon. - <em>Deeg</em></p><blockquote><p>👉 <strong><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3503391">Bet on March Madness on theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827010/Survivor_Picks-orange.jpg?ts=1773841815" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827010/Survivor_Picks-orange.jpg?ts=1773841815 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827010/Survivor_Picks-orange.jpg?ts=1773841815 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827010/Survivor_Picks-orange.jpg?ts=1773841815 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827010/Survivor_Picks-orange.jpg?ts=1773841815 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827010/Survivor_Picks-orange.jpg?ts=1773841815 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><h3>Oshtry - St. John's</h3><p>I'm going to pick St. John's based on similar reasoning to my Day 1 Arkansas pick. I can't envision a scenario where the Red Storm lose to a bad Northern Iowa squad averaging the fewest points per game among all 68 tournament teams. The Red Storm are significantly more talented and athletic than the Panthers, and they're too well-coached to be upset in this spot. But as was the case with Arkansas on Thursday, I don't feel comfortable taking St. John's any later - the team would likely play Kansas in the Round of 32 and then Duke in the Sweet 16 (if both teams advance). So we might as well burn the Johnnies now.</p><h3>Deeg - Purdue</h3><p>With Oshtry picking St. John's, I'll take a 2-seed Friday and choose the Boilermakers. Purdue is a 25.5-point favorite over a Queens University team that can score but ranks 345th in defensive rating and 260th in steals. Coming off an incredible run in the Big Ten Tournament, the Boilermakers are one of the hottest teams in the country. They should get a comfortable win over the Royals and roll to the Round of 32.</p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

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March Madness Round 1: Best bets, survivor picks for Friday's slate

The wait for the greatest sporting event of the year is over. We'll have plenty of bets for the g...

<p>The wait for the greatest sporting event of the year is over. We'll have plenty of bets for the games throughout the weekend, but sometimes it's even more exciting to place pre-tournament wagers. Here are eight futures bets to consider before the Round of 64 tips off.</p><blockquote><p>👉 <strong><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3501895">Click here to bet on March Madness on theScore Bet</a></strong></p></blockquote><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=b94348fe-95f4-4114-97c4-ca41badd0c73&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=9&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=5&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fexclusives%2Fsection%2Fin-the-news&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3501895">Under 8.5 total cumulative seeds to reach Final Four (-125)</a></h3><p>Get out the chalkboard! Maybe I'm relying too much on last year's tournament as a predictor when it could be an outlier, but I'm forecasting another chalky tournament. Arizona, Michigan, and Duke are all historically great teams that should earn Final Four trips. While a 2- or 3-seed could sneak in, the under would still hit.</p><p>Before the 2025 tournament, the last time the combined Final Four seeds equaled less than eight was in 2009. If history is any indication, the over is the play. But college basketball is in a new era, nudging us to ignore historical trends.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=68135019-959e-4a5a-8c40-3e2bd89370d1&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=29&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=10&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3501895">Arizona or Michigan over the field (+190)</a></h3><p>Arizona, Michigan, or Duke is going to win the national title. Every metric indicates those three teams are much better than everyone else, and that usually results in a national title. I'm comfortable leaving Duke with the field because of injury concerns and its difficult route through the East Region.</p><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=efca7b36-33c4-4c70-bf01-6ac7532a8f8e&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=16&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=5&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3501895">Michigan State to reach Elite Eight (+220)</a></h3><p>For a team that's ranked ninth on KenPom and has one of the best floor generals in the country in Jeremy Fears Jr., Michigan State is flying completely under the radar. That's likely because it was placed in a tough region. However, Michigan State has a relatively smooth path to the Elite Eight. Any opponent it can meet in the first three rounds - Louisville, UConn, UCLA, etc. - has worse efficiency metrics than the Spartans. Don't be surprised when Tom Izzo takes his group on another March run.</p><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=b5e5dd29-3c2e-4141-a158-2a4c66aa02dc&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=19&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=5&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3501895">Virginia to reach Elite Eight (+280)</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826063/cropped_GettyImages-2266155808.jpg?ts=1773341223" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826063/w220xh124_GettyImages-2266155808.jpg?ts=1773341223 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826063/w320xh180_GettyImages-2266155808.jpg?ts=1773341223 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826063/w640xh360_GettyImages-2266155808.jpg?ts=1773341223 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826063/w768xh432_GettyImages-2266155808.jpg?ts=1773341223 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826063/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2266155808.jpg?ts=1773341223 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jacob Kupferman / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>While Virginia deserves credit for its success - it's ranked 13th on KenPom and won 13 of its last 15 games (both losses were to Duke) - this bet has more to do with the Cavaliers' path. Virginia should be in no danger of an upset from 14-seed Wright State and would then likely play a vulnerable Tennessee group in the Round of 32. You'll be lucky you took this when the Cavaliers are in the Sweet 16. Their inside-outside scoring attack and deep bench can defeat Iowa State at that stage of the tourney, especially considering Virginia ranks in the top 30 nationally in threes made per game while Iowa State struggles to defend the arc.</p><blockquote><p>👉 <strong><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3501895">Click here to bet on March Madness on theScore Bet</a></strong></p></blockquote><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=451fd07c-04d9-4c01-ade5-ba6c7c36b3cc&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=17&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=4&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3501895">Illinois to win the South Region (+325)</a></h3><p>Illinois has the second-best offense on KenPom and a respectable defense, positioning the team for a Final Four run. Stars are made in March, and guard Keaton Wagler is one of the nation's best freshmen. But he's not a one-man show: The Fighting Illini have five players averaging double figures.</p><p>Not only do the Illini possess the talent, coaching, and scoring necessary for a Final Four trip, but they're also in a manageable region. No. 2 Houston relies on more freshmen than usual and has showcased its inconsistency over the last month. No. 1 seed Florida's guards might not be reliable enough to win back-to-back titles. There's an opening for 3-seed Illinois.</p><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=03aa1569-8060-4d0c-b187-8a5d2ba7b4dc&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=14&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=1&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3501895">Akron to reach Sweet 16 (+1300)</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826841/cropped_GettyImages-2266122636.jpg?ts=1773766700" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826841/w220xh124_GettyImages-2266122636.jpg?ts=1773766700 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826841/w320xh180_GettyImages-2266122636.jpg?ts=1773766700 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826841/w640xh360_GettyImages-2266122636.jpg?ts=1773766700 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826841/w768xh432_GettyImages-2266122636.jpg?ts=1773766700 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826841/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2266122636.jpg?ts=1773766700 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Akron ranks in the top 15 nationally in points and made threes per game. The team won 19 of its last 20 games and faces an injured Texas Tech squad in the opening round. The Zips can compete with anyone if they get hot from three.</p><p>If Akron advances, it'll play Alabama, which will likely be without recently arrested second-leading scorer Aden Holloway. The Zips lack size, but neither Texas Tech nor Alabama has the interior presence to bully them inside.</p><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=76455dcf-3721-40e6-b334-272733ca4344&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=19&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=1&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3501895">McNeese State to reach Sweet 16 (+1800)</a></h3><p>McNeese State consistently wins the possession battle with the best turnover margin in the nation. The Cowboys play at a slow pace and use defensive pressure to force turnovers, leading to plenty of transition points. That's a solid formula for a less talented team to upset respectable high-major programs. Vanderbilt, the Cowboys' Round of 64 opponent, and Nebraska, their potential Round of 32 opponent, are both among the top teams in the country in turnovers per game.</p><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=ba95fdd0-258b-4b52-987e-f4d112b93c3c&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=2&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=1&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3501895">Over 0.5 game-winning buzzer-beaters in the tournament (+100)</a></h3><p>There have been 47 buzzer-beaters (defined as a shot to take the lead as time expires) since 1944, and at least one in six of the last nine tournaments. Based on history, the chances of it happening again this year are greater than the implied probability presented by the odds. Plus, buzzer-beaters are fun to root for and a classic part of the March Madness experience.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more basketball coverage.</em></p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

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March Madness futures: Buzzer-beaters, Sweet 16, Final Four, and more picks

You've probably already researched every stat about schools you'd never heard of, filled out your...

<p>You've probably already researched every stat about schools you'd never heard of, filled out your brackets, and entered your survivor pools. It's almost time to set up your screens and enjoy the show. But before you make your picks for the first day of action, we're here to guide you through them.</p><p>Sam Oshtry and Brenden Deeg will each provide their favorite daily picks, their best underdog moneyline play, and a survivor pick for each day of the tournament until a champion is crowned in April. Let's get to the action.</p><blockquote><p>👉 <strong><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3502648">Bet on March Madness on theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796824/Game_Picks-Orange.jpg?ts=1754581818" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796824/Game_Picks-Orange.jpg?ts=1754581818 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796824/Game_Picks-Orange.jpg?ts=1754581818 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796824/Game_Picks-Orange.jpg?ts=1754581818 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796824/Game_Picks-Orange.jpg?ts=1754581818 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796824/Game_Picks-Orange.jpg?ts=1754581818 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=b37c8a5e-83b2-4e72-9bbe-07571a1d934b&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=21&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=11&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3502648">No. 9 TCU (+2.5) over No. 8 Ohio State</a></h3><p>TCU won six of its last seven games because of a sturdy, top-25 defense. The Horned Frogs have the personnel to shut down Ohio State star Bruce Thornton. Beyond him, the Buckeyes don't have enough reliable scorers. Ohio State's defense, meanwhile, ranks outside the top 50 and won't stop TCU forward David Punch. Plus, Ohio State is a completely different team outside of Columbus: The Buckeyes are 14-3 at home and 7-9 away. <em>- Oshtry</em></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=a973184f-ad4b-48f9-b8d7-2ec8f002cfbe&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=11&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=6&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3502648">No. 13 Troy (+13.5) over No. 4 Nebraska</a></h3><p>The pressure is on for Nebraska to win the first tournament game in school history. The Cornhuskers are a streaky offensive team that relies heavily on jacking a ton of threes - Nebraska attempts more than 50% of its field goals from long range. When Nebraska's hot, it's virtually unbeatable. But variance makes 3-pointer-heavy teams susceptible to upsets. You know the saying: Live by the three, die by the three. Plus, Troy has defended the arc well all season. I'm not willing to say Troy will win outright, but it should keep the contest close. <em>- Oshtry </em></p><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=d85f2804-5a9b-4a29-9f14-9856d712b82a&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=41&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=21&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3502648">No. 11 VCU (+2.5) over No. 6 North Carolina</a></h3><p>North Carolina's frontcourt is a mess without Caleb Wilson. Since he suffered a season-ending injury, the Tar Heels are 5-3, and three of those wins came against teams at the bottom of the ACC. North Carolina is barely a tournament team without Wilson, creating an upset opportunity for VCU. Three Rams players are shooting 40% or better from deep. North Carolina's rebounding struggles should create extra shooting opportunities for VCU, which has the talent to win here. <em>- Oshtry</em></p><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=03ccd65c-6dec-4680-bda8-f4ef4acee209&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=43&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=23&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3502648">No. 9 Saint Louis (+2.5) over No. 8 Georgia</a></h3><p>Saint Louis is led by Atlantic 10 Player of the Year Robbie Avila, who will become a fan favorite Thursday night. Avila and the Billikens lead all tournament teams in effective field-goal percentage (59.7%) and shoot over 40% from the 3-point line.</p><p>Georgia's offense ranks third in points per game, but it's 175th in the nation in 3-point percentage (34.1%), and it's extremely streaky. Saint Louis is also good at limiting teams from deep, sitting eighth in the nation in opponent 3-point percentage.</p><p>The biggest difference in this game is that Saint Louis is solid defensively and Georgia doesn't show up on that side of the ball, ranking 302nd in points per game allowed (79.2) among all D-I programs. It's been Georgia's Achilles' heel all season, and the Billikens are the perfect team to exploit that weakness. Saint Louis should be the favorite in this game, and you get 2.5 points to work with. <em>- Deeg</em></p><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=27ff2c69-b3cf-46d3-87bf-b8267604cbb9&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=11&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=6&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3502648">No. 3 Illinois team total over 87.5</a></h3><p>Penn is coming off an incredible overtime upset of Yale in the Ivy League Tournament title game. However, 24.5-point favorite Illinois is primed to light up the scoreboard after a disappointing loss to Wisconsin in the Big Ten Tournament.</p><p>Illinois averages 84.4 points per game and is second nationally in KenPom's offensive rating. The team scored at least 88 points in games against Purdue, Missouri, and Ohio State this season - all much better opponents than the Quakers.</p><p>Penn likes to play fast, which should lead to a ton of turnovers that the Fighting Illini can convert into quick points. When the Quakers' competition leveled up this season, Penn allowed 90 points to Villanova and 106 to Providence. I wouldn't be surprised if Illinois reaches triple digits in this contest. <em>- Deeg</em></p><blockquote><p>👉 <strong><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3502648">Bet on March Madness on theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827009/Underdogs-orange.jpg?ts=1773845231" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827009/Underdogs-orange.jpg?ts=1773845231 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827009/Underdogs-orange.jpg?ts=1773845231 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827009/Underdogs-orange.jpg?ts=1773845231 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827009/Underdogs-orange.jpg?ts=1773845231 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827009/Underdogs-orange.jpg?ts=1773845231 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=41e3ff29-b7c0-4ffe-a92b-34ee2b249459&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=11&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=2&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3502648">No. 12 McNeese State (+450) over No. 5 Vanderbilt</a></h3><p>Vanderbilt is a trendy pick to go far in the tournament, but McNeese State has the formula to pull off the upset. The Cowboys won their opening-round game as a 12-seed last year after being selected as a popular upset pick. While it's a different team with a different coach, McNeese State plays at a slower pace, focusing on winning the possession battle.</p><p>The Cowboys rank first in the nation in turnover margin and second in turnovers forced. Meanwhile, the Commodores struggle to take care of the ball, committing the nation's 23rd-most turnovers.</p><p>Limiting the possessions in a game against a more talented team is crucial, which is why McNeese State is equipped to win. At the very least, take the 11.5-point spread. <em>- Oshtry</em></p><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=a77c4098-4b24-4797-949a-f11bb33b59cf&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=13&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=5&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3502648">No. 11 South Florida (+160) over No. 6 Louisville</a></h3><p>South Florida has all the makings of a double-digit seed that can win its first game. The Bulls force turnovers at the 13th-highest rate in the nation and attack the glass at will, ranking fourth in rebounds per contest. Izaiyah Nelson, the American Conference Player of the Year, is one of the most exciting forwards in the tournament and can defend all five positions.</p><p>Louisville is a top-25 team on KenPom but won't have Mikel Brown Jr., its best player, who hasn't taken the floor since Feb. 28 due to a back injury.</p><p>The Cardinals have lost four of their last eight games, while the Bulls have won 11 straight. Bulls head coach Bryan Hodgson is from the Nate Oats coaching tree and loves to play up-tempo. That can hinder upset attempts, but it should work in this matchup because South Florida can match Louisville's style - USF ranks eighth in points per game. <em>- Deeg</em></p><blockquote><p>👉 <strong><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3502648">Bet on March Madness on theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827010/Survivor_Picks-orange.jpg?ts=1773841815" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827010/Survivor_Picks-orange.jpg?ts=1773841815 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827010/Survivor_Picks-orange.jpg?ts=1773841815 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827010/Survivor_Picks-orange.jpg?ts=1773841815 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827010/Survivor_Picks-orange.jpg?ts=1773841815 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827010/Survivor_Picks-orange.jpg?ts=1773841815 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><p>Survivor pools have become one of the most popular betting activities for March Madness. Here's how it works: You pick one team to win each day, and you can't use that team again for the rest of the tournament. If that team wins, you're still in the running. If your pick loses, you're eliminated.</p><p>Don't waste your early-round picks on the top seeds. The soundest strategy for the first couple of days is picking teams that you think can escape the Round of 64 but don't have much of a chance of going deep in the tournament. With that in mind, here are our Thursday survivor picks.</p><h3>Oshtry - Arkansas</h3><p>Arkansas has the talent to make a serious run, as evidenced by winning the SEC Tournament. It also boasts one of the best players in the country in Darius Acuff Jr. However, the Razorbacks got a tough path, likely facing Wisconsin in the Round of 32 and Arizona in the Sweet 16. I wouldn't feel comfortable taking Arkansas in either game, especially against a dangerous Wisconsin team. Hawaii, which is a 15.5-point underdog, doesn't pose much of a threat in the opening round, especially against an experienced tournament coach in John Calipari. I'll use Arkansas on Day 1 and hope the Razorbacks don't advance much further.</p><h3>Deeg - Gonzaga </h3><p>Taking teams seeded 3-5 is the best way to attack survivor pools in the first two days, and Gonzaga is a great selection to start the tournament. It's a 20.5-point favorite against Kennesaw State, and the program hasn't lost a first-round March Madness game since Steph Curry and Davidson took the Bulldogs down in 2008.</p><p>The Owls need to dominate inside to succeed - they ranked 211th in field-goal percentage but 23rd in rebounds. However, Gonzaga sits inside the top 25 in rebounds and the top 10 in KenPom's defensive rating. The Bulldogs' offense will run through Graham Ike early and often, and he'll be too much for Kennesaw State to handle. The Owls also ranked last in the country in defensive free-throw rate, so I expect Gonzaga to live at the line. Even with Braden Huff sidelined for the Bulldogs, the talent gap in this game should produce a comfortable Gonzaga win.</p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

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March Madness Round 1: Best bets, survivor picks for Thursday's slate

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NBA awards watch: Is SGA a lock to win MVP again?

Last year's Final Four featured four No. 1 seeds for the first time since 2008, leaving many coll...

<p>Last year's Final Four featured four No. 1 seeds for the first time since 2008, leaving many college basketball fans wondering if the tournament that brands itself on upsets and chaos is entering an era of predictability. One year is too small a sample size, but the 2026 NCAA Tournament will provide greater evidence as to whether it's time to start digging Cinderella's grave.</p><p>Cinderellas are typically considered mid-majors that take down a Goliath en route to the second or third weekend of competition. Think Princeton in 2023, Saint Peter's in 2022, Loyola Chicago in 2018, Florida Gulf Coast in 2013, VCU in 2011, and George Mason in 2006.</p><p>But those stories have become increasingly rare. College basketball has transformed extensively over the last few years, but an unintended consequence of introducing NIL and the lawless transfer portal is the weakening of mid-major programs.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Would a player rather star at a mid-major or have a lesser role on a power conference team for significantly more money? The answer for most players is the latter, an effect that's expanded the talent gap between such programs. Many smaller schools have sacrificed continuity, an essential characteristic of an underdog tourney run, to promote their program as a springboard to a high-major team.</p><p>Consider this: Last year's tournament provided<strong> </strong>the fewest outright underdog winners (13) since the tournament expanded in 1985. The Sweet 16 hasn't featured multiple double-digit seeds in each of the last three years, the longest streak since tournament expansion, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/espn/betting/story/_/id/48111056/2026-march-madness-ncaa-tournament-men-basketball-upsets-nil">ESPN</a>. And at one point this season, ranked teams were 85-0 against unranked teams, the longest win streak in AP Poll history.</p><p>The betting market reflects the massive gap. This is the first time in modern tournament history that all 16 top-four seeds are double-digit favorites in their first-round games.</p><blockquote><p>👉 <strong><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3501387">Click here to bet on March Madness on theScore Bet</a></strong></p></blockquote><p>Like in 2025, this year's best teams - Duke, Michigan, and Arizona - are historically great <a href="https://kenpom.com/index.php">compared</a> to their peers, creating the potential for another chalky Final Four. And if we're wrong and the market is overreacting, well, there's a lot of money to be made on upsets.</p><p>Choosing underdogs is the most exciting part of March Madness (even though top seeds advancing leads to more intriguing late-round games), but if the trendy upset pick no longer commands the attention it once did, it's time to pivot. Instead, we'll identify high-major programs that are considered long shots to flourish in the Big Dance.</p><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3501387">7-seed UCLA</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Round</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Round of 64 vs. UCF</td>
<td>-6.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>To reach Sweet 16</td>
<td>+200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>To reach Elite Eight</td>
<td>+650</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>To reach Final Four</td>
<td>+2200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>To reach title game</td>
<td>+6600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>To win title</td>
<td>+15000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>UCLA, which has won six of its last eight games, including three over ranked opponents, is better than its record and seed indicate. While the team's depth is questionable, its starting five is talented enough to earn a trip to the Final Four. Assuming Donovan Dent and Tyler Bilodeau are healthy - both of whom are dealing with injuries - UCLA matches up well against potential Round of 32 opponent UConn, which benefited from playing in a weak Big East. Dent is one of the best point guards in the country, and the Bruins are nearly impossible to beat when he's drilling threes.</p><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3501387">5-seed Wisconsin</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Round</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Round of 64 vs. High Point</td>
<td>-9.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>To reach Sweet 16</td>
<td>+110</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>To reach Elite Eight</td>
<td>+900</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>To reach Final Four</td>
<td>+1500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>To reach title game</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>To win title</td>
<td>+7500</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Wisconsin has a tough path with potential matchups against Arkansas in the Round of 32 and Arizona in the Sweet 16, but the Badgers have the tools to make a run. Elite guard play wins in March, and Nick Boyd and John Blackwell form a dangerous backcourt duo. Meanwhile, Austin Rapp and Nolan Winter are prototypical stretch-bigs.</p><p>Wisconsin attempts the seventh-most threes per game. High 3-point variance can lead to an early loss, but it can also result in hot shooting stretches. The Badgers have won five of their last six games, including wins over Purdue and Illinois. They shot 40% from three during that stretch, with nearly 60% of their field goals coming from deep.</p><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3501387">6-seed BYU</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Round</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Round of 64 vs. Texas/NC State winner</td>
<td>TBD</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>To reach Sweet 16</td>
<td>+425</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>To reach Elite Eight</td>
<td>+850</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>To reach Final Four</td>
<td>+6600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>To reach title game</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>To win title</td>
<td>+15000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Maybe I'm just hoping for as many games featuring AJ Dybantsa as possible before he enters the NBA. The nation's leading scorer (25.3 points per game) is good enough to drag BYU to a few tournament wins, especially with Robert Wright co-starring as Richie Saunders remains out. The Cougars, who rank 10th in offensive efficiency, won three straight games before losing to Houston in the Big 12 Tournament.</p><p>While BYU's porous defense will ultimately be its downfall, its offense should outpace either Texas or NC State in the opening round. The Cougars would then likely face Gonzaga, which has a steady defense but may lack offensive firepower, as forward Braden Huff is expected to miss the first weekend. That's a favorable path to the Sweet 16, where BYU could meet Purdue in a track meet between high-powered offenses.</p><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3501387">9-seed TCU</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Round</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Round of 64 vs. Ohio State</td>
<td>+2.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>To reach Sweet 16</td>
<td>+1600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>To reach Elite Eight</td>
<td>+3300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>To reach Final Four</td>
<td>+12500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>To reach title game</td>
<td>+25000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>To win title</td>
<td>+40000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>TCU could lose in the opening round or defeat an injured Duke team in the Round of 32, given the uncertain statuses of Caleb Foster and Patrick Ngongba. The underseeded Horned Frogs beat Florida and Wisconsin in November and have now won six of their last seven games. David Punch is a bruising forward who can take over games with his playmaking and scoring, plus TCU has enough sturdy guard play to bust some brackets.</p><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3501387">12-seed McNeese State</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Round</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Round of 64 vs. Vanderbilt</td>
<td>+11.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>To reach Sweet 16</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>To reach Elite Eight</td>
<td>+15000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>To reach Final Four</td>
<td>+50000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>To reach title game</td>
<td>+75000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>To win title</td>
<td>+150000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>You may be asking what McNeese is doing here when the whole point of this exercise is to avoid mid-majors. It's a fair question, but I couldn't help myself. The Cowboys were a popular underdog pick last March, but this year's group is capable of orchestrating upsets as well.</p><p>In an elimination tournament, winning the possession battle is crucial. McNeese does that as well as anyone. It plays with a relatively slow pace but uses its defensive pressure to generate offense. The Cowboys lead the country in turnover margin and force the second-most turnovers per game, resulting in plenty of fast-break points. That could be problematic for Vanderbilt, which is 22nd in turnovers committed. McNeese holds the formula for another Cinderella run.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more basketball coverage.</em></p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34910172/related

Are Cinderellas dead? 4 high-major long shots to consider in March Madness

Duke will enter March Madness as the favorite to win the national championship in Indianapolis fo...

<p>Duke will enter March Madness as the favorite to win the national championship in Indianapolis following the bracket reveal on Selection Sunday. Michigan had held a slight edge until the selection show, when the Blue Devils were awarded the top overall seed after capturing the ACC title.</p><p>If it feels like Duke and Michigan are on a collision course to meet in the national title game, the odds are with you. Arizona trails the Blue Devils and Wolverines with the third-best odds after capturing the Big 12 Tournament crown and suffering just two losses all season. Florida is the fourth No. 1 seed, and its odds slipped after losing in the SEC Tournament semifinals.</p><blockquote><p>🏀 <strong><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3498030">Click here to bet on March Madness on theScore Bet</a></strong></p></blockquote><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3498030">National title odds</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Duke</td>
<td>+300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michigan</td>
<td>+375</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Arizona</td>
<td>+425</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Florida</td>
<td>+750</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Houston</td>
<td>+1100</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Iowa State</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UConn</td>
<td>+2200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Illinois</td>
<td>+2200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Purdue</td>
<td>+3000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michigan State</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Arkansas</td>
<td>+6000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Gonzaga</td>
<td>+6000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>St. John's</td>
<td>+6000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kansas</td>
<td>+6600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Vanderbilt</td>
<td>+7500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Virginia</td>
<td>+7500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Wisconsin</td>
<td>+7500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Alabama</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nebraska</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tennessee</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kentucky</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Louisville</td>
<td>+12500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>BYU</td>
<td>+12500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Texas Tech</td>
<td>+12500</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p>🏀 <strong><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3498030">See more March Madness odds on theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><p>Will the Final Four be chalk for the second straight year? Last season marked the first time since 2008 that all four No. 1 seeds reached the Final Four - a rare occurrence throughout tournament history. However, as top talent increasingly gravitates toward powerhouse programs, the chances for Cinderella runs by mid-majors are dwindling, especially with the widening talent gap fueled by NIL deals and the transfer portal.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Over the past few months, Duke, Michigan, Arizona, and Florida have established themselves as the leading teams. Still, several No. 2 and No. 3 seeds are primed to knock off the region favorites.</p><p>Although Duke earned the top seed, it was rewarded with a difficult draw. The Blue Devils' region features three Hall of Fame coaches - St. John's Rick Pitino, Kansas' Bill Self, and Michigan State's Tom Izzo - and a fourth on the way in UConn's Dan Hurley, whose program earned the 2-seed in the East Region. Despite losing in the Big East final, the Huskies own the right blend of guards and bigs to return to the Final Four. UConn's title odds lengthened after getting paired in a region with Duke.</p><p>Houston's title odds slightly shortened after it was gifted the No. 2 seed in the South Region with Florida as the 1-seed. The Cougars' inconsistency and reliance on younger players could pose challenges, but they have enough talent to make a run. Illinois, the 3-seed in the region, could be poised for a Final Four trip, as the squad is filled with NBA-level talent and quality international players. Three of the eight teams with the best title odds are in the South Region.</p><p>Iowa State, Arkansas, and Purdue - fresh off winning the Big Ten Tournament - have the talent to make a run and upset the top overall seeds. Virginia, Vanderbilt, and Wisconsin's title odds shortened after their tournament paths were revealed, while Alabama, Nebraska, and Kentucky's odds moved in the opposite direction.</p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

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March Madness odds: Duke favored as top overall seed 

The NCAA Tournament is upon us. In the buildup to the opening round, theScore is previewing each ...

<p><em>The NCAA Tournament is upon us. In the buildup to the opening round, theScore is previewing each region to get you prepared to pick your bracket. After hitting the <a href="https://thescore.com/news/3500980">East Region</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3501052" href="https://thescore.com/news/3501052">South Region</a> earlier, here's our breakdown of the Midwest.</em></p><h3>Top teams</h3><p><strong>No. 1 Michigan</strong></p><p>Michigan looked unbeatable during a stretch that featured wins over three top-10 teams. The Wolverines suffered two regular-season losses by a combined eight points - and one was against top overall seed Duke. But then Michigan crashed back to earth during the Big Ten Tournament, barely escaping Ohio State and Wisconsin before losing to Purdue in the final.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The team's depth took a major hit when sixth-leading scorer L.J. Cason was ruled out for the season in late February. That likely contributed to Michigan's disappointing conference tourney. The Wolverines' size and frontcourt prowess could still carry them to a title in a season where the top contenders are led by their bigs. Michigan also has enough steady guard play to make a run. But it's the Wolverines' defense, which <a href="https://kenpom.com/index.php">KenPom</a> rates No. 1, that will be the true basis of any Final Four run.</p><p><strong>No. 2 Iowa State</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826697/cropped_GettyImages-2264127106.jpg?ts=1773680157" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826697/w220xh124_GettyImages-2264127106.jpg?ts=1773680157 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826697/w320xh180_GettyImages-2264127106.jpg?ts=1773680157 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826697/w640xh360_GettyImages-2264127106.jpg?ts=1773680157 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826697/w768xh432_GettyImages-2264127106.jpg?ts=1773680157 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826697/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2264127106.jpg?ts=1773680157 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">David K Purdy / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>As much as we've touted this year's brilliant freshman class, experience and chemistry are still a winning formula in March Madness. Iowa State checks both boxes. The Cyclones' three leading scorers - Milan Momcilovic, Joshua Jefferson, and Tamin Lipsey - have starred for Iowa State the last two seasons.</p><p>The offensive production beyond those three isn't consistent, which might be what ultimately stops Iowa State's run. But the defense, ranked fourth in the nation, is the reason for the team's success. It might not matter who else contributes offensively if opponents can't score on the Cyclones.</p><p><strong>No. 3 Virginia</strong></p><p>You no longer have to worry about falling asleep on your couch while watching Virginia's offense. Ryan Odom has transformed the Cavaliers in his first year, and this group is equipped to play spoiler to some of the region's favorites. Virginia won 13 of its last 15 games to close the season, and both losses were to Duke. A balanced scoring attack, the nation's 16th-ranked defense, and a sturdy rebounding group allow the Cavaliers to control the possession battle, which is the key to winning survive-and-advance games.</p><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab%2Fsection%2Fregion-winner&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3501177">Midwest Region odds</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Michigan</td>
<td>-120</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Iowa State</td>
<td>+295</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Virginia</td>
<td>+1100</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Alabama</td>
<td>+1400</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tennessee</td>
<td>+1400</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Texas Tech</td>
<td>+1600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kentucky</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Georgia</td>
<td>+6600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Santa Clara</td>
<td>+6600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Saint Louis</td>
<td>+15000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SMU</td>
<td>+20000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Miami (OH)</td>
<td>+40000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Akron</td>
<td>+50000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Hofstra</td>
<td>+50000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p>👉 <strong><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab%2Fsection%2Fregion-winner&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3501177">Click here to bet on the Midwest Region and other March Madness markets available on theScore Bet</a></strong></p></blockquote><h3>Bracket-busters</h3><p><strong>No. 10 Santa Clara</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/823974/cropped_GettyImages-2247016201.jpg?ts=1772235574" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/823974/w220xh124_GettyImages-2247016201.jpg?ts=1772235574 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/823974/w320xh180_GettyImages-2247016201.jpg?ts=1772235574 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/823974/w640xh360_GettyImages-2247016201.jpg?ts=1772235574 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/823974/w768xh432_GettyImages-2247016201.jpg?ts=1772235574 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/823974/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2247016201.jpg?ts=1772235574 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Mitchell Layton / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>This is Santa Clara's first appearance in the tourney since Steve Nash took the Broncos to the Big Dance in 1996. The team's only losses since Dec. 21 came against fellow tourney squads Gonzaga and Saint Mary's. The Broncos rank in the top 25 in offensive efficiency and 21st in turnover margin. Limiting turnovers while forcing opponents to cough it up is a proven recipe for a double-digit seed to manage an upset, and Santa Clara gets a vulnerable Kentucky team in the opening round.</p><p><strong>No. 12 Akron</strong></p><p>Miami (Ohio) captivated the nation, but real ball-knowers will tell you that Akron is the better squad coming out of the MAC. Akron won 19 of its last 20 games, and its high-octane offense is as good as you'll find among mid-major programs. The Zips' first-round matchup is Texas Tech, which doesn't have JT Toppin for the rest of the season. Christian Anderson, who injured his groin at the Big 12 Tournament, won't be 100% if he plays. Akron is a small group, but Texas Tech doesn't have the size to take advantage.</p><h3>Players to watch</h3><p><strong>Yaxel Lendeborg</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826383/cropped_GettyImages-2266019682.jpg?ts=1773520861" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826383/w220xh124_GettyImages-2266019682.jpg?ts=1773520861 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826383/w320xh180_GettyImages-2266019682.jpg?ts=1773520861 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826383/w640xh360_GettyImages-2266019682.jpg?ts=1773520861 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826383/w768xh432_GettyImages-2266019682.jpg?ts=1773520861 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826383/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2266019682.jpg?ts=1773520861 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>As the Big Ten Player of the Year, Lendeborg averaged 14.6 points, seven rebounds, and 3.2 assists as Michigan's offensive engine. The do-it-all forward is a force inside, and he steps out to shoot threes while playmaking for a balanced offense. However, he's just one piece of one of the nation's best frontcourts, which also features Morez Johnson Jr. and Aday Mara. Lendeborg tweaked his ankle during the Big Ten Tournament final, but he's expected to play in Michigan's tourney opener.</p><p><strong>Nate Ament </strong></p><p>While I wouldn't expect Tennessee to stick around in the tournament for too long, Nate Ament is worthy of some space on your screen(s) when the Vols take the floor. The projected top-10 pick was an All-SEC player, averaging 17.5 points and 6.5 rebounds. While his production dipped as the season went on, the 6-foot-10 forward is a freight train in transition who can dominate on the ball and excel away from it.</p><p><strong>Thijs De Ridder</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/824017/cropped_GettyImages-2261916180.jpg?ts=1772288184" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/824017/w220xh124_GettyImages-2261916180.jpg?ts=1772288184 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/824017/w320xh180_GettyImages-2261916180.jpg?ts=1772288184 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/824017/w640xh360_GettyImages-2261916180.jpg?ts=1772288184 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/824017/w768xh432_GettyImages-2261916180.jpg?ts=1772288184 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/824017/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2261916180.jpg?ts=1772288184 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Virginia's Belgian star leads the team in points (15.5) and rebounds (6.2) per game. De Ridder's pick-and-roll ball-handling ability, off-ball movement, and putback rebounds spark the Cavaliers' offense. At 6-foot-9, the freshman's role as a playmaking big is crucial for Virginia's tournament chances.</p><p><strong>Labaron Philon Jr.</strong></p><p>If there's anything you can count on every March, it's Alabama coming into the tournament with a group that plays fast, shoots a ton of threes, and doesn't defend. Philon is Alabama's catalyst. He scores 21.7 points per game, the third-highest mark in the SEC, and dishes out a team-high 4.7 assists. He launches nearly six threes per game and connects on 40% of them. The Crimson Tide will generally go as their 3-point shooting goes, but their success ultimately comes down to Philon.</p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34903591/related

Midwest Region preview: Will Michigan continue dominant run?

Before the real March Madness begins, many teams are competing for automatic bids in their confer...

<p>Before the real March Madness begins, many teams are competing for automatic bids in their conference tournaments in order to earn a stress-free Selection Sunday. Over the next few days, the five major conference tournaments - the ACC, Big Ten, Big East, SEC, and Big 12 - will tip off and crown a conference champion. We broke down the five tournaments and our picks to cut down the nets.</p><blockquote><p>👉 <strong><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3493048">Check out full college basketball futures and game odds on theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3493048">ACC Tournament odds</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Duke</td>
<td>-325</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Virginia</td>
<td>+700</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Louisville</td>
<td>+1200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Miami</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>North Carolina</td>
<td>+2500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Clemson</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NC State</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>🏀 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=ffc7eedb-aa97-43b3-9c0f-293bd03fb594&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=8&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=1&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3493048">Pick: Virginia +700</a>
</h3><p>Duke isn't just the best team in the ACC; it's the best team in all of college basketball. Oddsmakers expect Duke to dominate the ACC Tournament en route to a title. That's hard to argue with, but it's also impossible to recommend taking Duke at that short a price. The Blue Devils' only ACC loss was to North Carolina, which no longer deserves consideration as a contender after a season-ending injury to Caleb Wilson.</p><p>Virginia is clearly the second-best team in the ACC and sits on the opposite side of the bracket from Duke. The Cavaliers have won 15 of their last 17 games and are a top-20 team on <a href="https://kenpom.com/index.php">KenPom</a>. If anyone's equipped to dethrone Duke, it's Virginia.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3493048">Big Ten Tournament odds</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Michigan</td>
<td>-105</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Illinois</td>
<td>+480</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michigan State</td>
<td>+650</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Purdue</td>
<td>+650</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nebraska</td>
<td>+1000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Wisconsin</td>
<td>+3000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UCLA</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Iowa</td>
<td>+6000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ohio State</td>
<td>+7500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Indiana</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>🏀 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=6377f42e-511e-4cf3-984a-a1ff979e6e64&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=15&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=2&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3493048">Pick: Michigan State</a>
</h3><p>Michigan's only loss since Jan. 11 was to Duke. The 2025 Big Ten Tournament champs are the most talented and best-coached team in the conference, but that doesn't guarantee them a title. Michigan State's won six of its last eight games, with its two losses coming to Illinois and Michigan, both of which are on the other side of the bracket.</p><p>The Spartans are eighth on KenPom thanks to their sturdy defense, which can carry them to a tournament title. Guard play will be paramount, and Michigan State's Jeremy Fears Jr. is consistently the best floor general on the court.</p><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3493048">Big East Tournament odds</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>UConn</td>
<td> -110</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>St. John's</td>
<td>+185</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Villanova</td>
<td>+650</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Seton Hall</td>
<td>+1500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Creighton</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Marquette</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Providence</td>
<td>+7500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Butler</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Georgetown</td>
<td>+15000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Xavier</td>
<td>+25000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>🏀 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=d8541ebe-9dae-4f40-b3ac-7d23230c9ca5&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=21&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=11&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3493048">Pick: UConn (-110)</a>
</h3><p>Only three Big East teams - St. John's, UConn, and Villanova - are projected to earn at-large bids, tied for the fewest since 1993. Villanova is 0-4 against St. John's and UConn this season with an average margin of defeat of 14.2 points. Unless another squad embarks on a miraculous Big East Tournament run - like Georgetown in 2021 - St. John's and UConn are on a collision course to meet in the Big East final.</p><p>St. John's defeated UConn in early February, but the Huskies exacted their revenge with a 32-point win later in the month that Red Storm coach Rick Pitino called one of the worst losses of his career. Although St. John's won the regular-season title, the Huskies are the more talented group. The Red Storm use rebounding and turnovers to generate offense, but they don't have much of an edge over UConn in either category. A Red Storm offense that ranks outside the top 50 on KenPom won't create quality shots against the Huskies' top-12 defense.</p><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3493048">Big 12 Tournament odds</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Arizona</td>
<td>+115</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Houston</td>
<td>+200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Iowa State</td>
<td>+750</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kansas</td>
<td>+850</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Texas Tech</td>
<td>+1700</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>BYU</td>
<td>+7500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>TCU</td>
<td>+7500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cincinnati</td>
<td>+8000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>West Virginia</td>
<td>+15000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>🏀 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=eb9dc5a4-3a8c-4bb3-a0cf-e1f0cf84fc1a&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=43&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=20&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3493048">Pick: Arizona (+115)</a>
</h3><p>The Big 12 has at least four national title contenders, but none have dominated like Arizona, which finished 16-2 against Big 12 opponents. Arizona's defense, which KenPom ranks third, suffocates opponents on the perimeter and prevents teams from scoring at the rim. Offensively, Arizona's potential kryptonite is shooting, but the Wildcats crash the offensive glass relentlessly and create extra shots.</p><p>Arizona's toughest challenger will be Houston in a potential title matchup. However, the Wildcats recently defeated the Cougars by seven without Koa Peat, Arizona's second-leading scorer.</p><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3493048">SEC Tournament odds</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Florida</td>
<td>-175</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Arkansas</td>
<td>+600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Alabama</td>
<td>+800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Vanderbilt</td>
<td>+1200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tennessee</td>
<td>1300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kentucky</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Texas A&amp;M</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Georgia</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Missouri</td>
<td>+8000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Texas</td>
<td>+8000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Auburn</td>
<td>+15000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>🏀 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=608d3cff-b37d-41f1-9cb4-31beed4863e9&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=7&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=1&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3493048">Pick: Arkansas (+600)</a>
</h3><p>Florida finished the regular season on an 11-game winning streak that included a resounding win over Arkansas. While the Gators have the necessary balance of guards and bigs to embark on another March run, a -115 price to win three games in three days isn't worth touching in this conference.</p><p>While the Big 12 might be the best conference, the SEC is the deepest, with 11 projected tournament teams. Still, we're not scrolling too far down the board to find a winner. Arkansas won 10 of its last 13 games to close the regular season and emerged as an offensive juggernaut behind Darius Acuff Jr. and Meleek Thomas.</p><p>Arkansas doesn't have the frontcourt strength to compete with Florida - the Gators outrebounded the Razorbacks by 20 in their lone meeting - but the programs are on opposite sides of the bracket, meaning Arkansas won't see Florida until the championship.</p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34812055/related

Conference tournament preview: Will anyone dethrone Duke, Florida, or Michigan?

Pundits and outsiders spouted words like "gap year" and "rebuild" to make sense of a puzzling Cel...

<p>Pundits and outsiders spouted words like "gap year" and "rebuild" to make sense of a puzzling Celtics roster that had lost three-fifths of its starting lineup. But those words never penetrated the walls of Boston's Auerbach Center.</p><p>Despite losing Jayson Tatum to a torn Achilles, watching Al Horford and Luke Kornet leave in free agency, and trading Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis, the Celtics have defied expectations. Having missed the playoffs only once in the last 18 years, Boston currently holds the East's No. 2 seed, owns the NBA's fourth-best record, and is on pace to win more than 50 games for the fifth consecutive season.</p><p>Now, Tatum is <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3490555" href="https://thescore.com/news/3490555">reportedly</a><strong> </strong>expected to make his season debut Friday, 10 months after he ruptured his Achilles tendon in the second round of last season's playoffs. While All-NBA-level players have previously returned from major injuries quicker than expected, none have rejoined a title-aspiring team in quite this manner. Tatum will reunite with a squad that's prospered without him but needs his presence to shift from feel-good story into true title threat.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><blockquote><p>👉<strong> <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=6d46f3f3-ed72-4964-83ad-116b59fe6a9b&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=10&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=1&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3485191">Check out the Celtics' odds to win the NBA championship on theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><p>Though they lost 63% of their scoring production from last year, the Celtics have improved their offensive rating this season. They rank second in the league in offensive rating, yet are 21st in points per game. No team since 2000 has finished with a top-three offensive rating while sitting in the league's bottom half in points per game over a full season. How is Boston so efficient without a high-scoring output? The answer lies in its possessions.</p><p>The Celtics play at the league's slowest pace, valuing each possession by avoiding turnovers (second-best turnover rate) and crashing the offensive glass (fifth-best offensive rebounding rate). Even last year, when Boston had a more robust frontcourt, it placed in the bottom half in offensive rebounding. The personnel matter less than the philosophy.</p><p>By securing more offensive rebounds and limiting turnovers, the Celtics consistently generate additional shot opportunities. The efficient approach is why they rate third in field-goal attempts despite tallying the league's second-fewest total possessions.</p><p>But Boston's biggest transformation is where they're shooting from and how they're generating shots.</p><p>The Celtics rank second<strong> </strong>in three-point attempts despite taking six fewer threes per game than they did last campaign and the fewest since Joe Mazzulla became head coach in 2022. This season, 46% of their shots are coming from beyond the arc, down from 54% last season.</p><p>Jaylen Brown's mastery of the mid-range has fueled that approach. Serving as the Celtics' offensive catalyst and catapulting into MVP contention, Brown is posting a career-best 28.9 points per game (tied for fourth in the NBA) and a<strong> </strong>35.6% usage rate, the league's second-highest.</p><p>Brown took 228 total pull-up 2-pointers last season, accounting for 17% of his field-goal attempts. However, he's already attempted 344<strong> </strong>in 2025-26 - 28% of his total shots - while connecting on<strong> </strong>a career-best 43.1% on all dribble jumpers.</p><p>"I think we've changed our approach significantly," Brown recently <a href="https://www.si.com/nba/celtics/onsi/jaylen-brown-named-all-star-starter-for-first-time-in-his-career-01kfbwq3807n">said</a>. "I was discouraged a lot of times to take mid-range shots. At different points in my career, they literally told me not to. Now it's like, Jaylen, you can take whatever shot you want."</p><p>Previously, the Celtics' offense featured Tatum relentlessly hunting mismatches and attacking switches in isolation to create an advantage. But Boston's isolation frequency has declined while its pick-and-roll rate has increased. Boston currently sits third in pick-and-roll frequency after placing 18th last season.</p><p>Brown's pick-and-roll possessions per contest are up from 3.9 to 6.5. Meanwhile, Payton Pritchard, Derrick White, and Brown all rank in the top 40 in points per game as the pick-and-roll ball-handler after none placed in the top 60 last season.</p><p>The Celtics once relied heavily on post touches to create high-quality shots, but that has disappeared. With Porzingis - among the most efficient post-up players - and Tatum - whose patented mid-post touches are borderline unguardable - out of the lineup, post-ups have vanished from the offense. Last season, the Celtics placed third in post-up possessions at 6.5 per game. This campaign, they run the league's third-fewest at 2.1 per game.</p><p>As Boston has abandoned post touches and reduced its isolation plays, it has placed a heavier emphasis on ball screens and capitalizing on offensive rebounds. It ranks fourth in second-chance points.</p><p>As fans wonder how a perennial All-NBA first-team player will fit into the equation, Tatum's asking the same question.</p><p>"There is a thought in my head, like, how does that work? Or how does that look with me integrating myself off an injury and 50, 60 games into a season?" Tatum said on the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yMfHlJxBJ_g">Pivot Podcast</a> in February.</p><p>Tatum likely won't step right back into the role of a 26-point-per-game, high-usage player who overtakes Brown as the primary creator. While Brown has rightfully become the top option, Tatum's scoring and playmaking will be crucial to unlocking Boston's offense against heightened defensive coverages in the playoffs.</p><p>Tatum finished fourth in the league last season in isolation scoring, using his shot creation to generate looks for himself and others. He also averaged 7.4 pick-and-roll ball-handling possessions per game. With Tatum likely returning on a minutes restriction, that workload will subside.</p><p>However, the five-time All-NBAer should play more off the ball in a spot-up role. He thrived in those situations last season, scoring an impressive 1.121 points per spot-up possession, according to Synergy. Boston can design plays to scheme Tatum open without him dominating the ball. For example, consider this Spain pick-and-roll (ball screen into a back screen), but imagine Tatum playing Sam Hauser's spot as the back screener:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Celtics chest action out of horns into Spain PnR <a href="https://t.co/9k5yFuGsLz">pic.twitter.com/9k5yFuGsLz</a></p>— Sam Oshtry (@soshtry) <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry/status/2028787476827922599?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Now picture Tatum playing Hauser's part in this action (horns set into a ghost screen and a flare screen):</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Celtics chest action (ghost screen into flare screen) for a Sam Hauser three: <a href="https://t.co/5lfjTCFFMJ">pic.twitter.com/5lfjTCFFMJ</a></p>— Sam Oshtry (@soshtry) <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry/status/2028788727288336644?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Mazzulla's innovative playbook will create shots for Tatum, who's drilled at least 38% of his catch-and-shoot threes over the last four seasons. As the playoffs approach, Boston should steadily increase his isolation and ball-screen reps while reintroducing post-up opportunities for the 6-foot-8 forward.</p><p>The Celtics, favored to win the East, have leaned on an ultra-efficient offense without enough reliable scoring options for a deep playoff run. Though Brown has said this is his <a href="https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/celtics-jaylen-brown-reveals-shocking-150209654.html">favorite</a> season, he needs his co-star back for this team to turn a surprising regular season into another Finals trip.</p><p>A gap year? Yeah, right. Not with Mazzulla's maniacal approach. Questions will persist regarding Tatum's role, but his return signals Boston's plan to reclaim the Eastern Conference crown.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more basketball coverage.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34737042/related

How does Tatum's return fit into Celtics' storybook season?

The countdown to the World Cup is at 100 days. North America is set to host soccer's most-anticip...

<p>The countdown to the World Cup is at 100 days. North America is set to host soccer's most-anticipated event, with matches taking place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.</p><p>Spain, the 2010 World Cup champion, is the favorite on <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fsoccer%2Forganization%2Finternational%2Fcompetition%2Ffifa-world-cup-2026&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3489707">theScore Bet</a>. England, a perennial contender that hasn't won the title since 1966, follows close behind. Brazil, France, and Argentina round out the top five on the oddsboard. Notably, Argentina beat France in a thrilling penalty shootout in the previous World Cup final.</p><p>The United States is a long shot at +5000 to win it all, but it's the favorite to emerge from a relatively easy group. Meanwhile, Canada is even further down at +10000 and has the third-best odds to win its group.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fsoccer%2Forganization%2Finternational%2Fcompetition%2Ffifa-world-cup-2026&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3489707">FIFA World Cup odds</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Country</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Spain 🇪🇸</td>
<td>+450</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>England 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿</td>
<td>+550</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brazil 🇧🇷</td>
<td>+700</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>France 🇫🇷</td>
<td>+700</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Argentina 🇦🇷</td>
<td>+800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Portugal 🇵🇹</td>
<td>+1000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Germany 🇩🇪</td>
<td>+1200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Netherlands 🇳🇱</td>
<td>+2000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Norway 🇳🇴</td>
<td>+2800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Italy 🇮🇹</td>
<td>+3300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Uruguay 🇺🇾</td>
<td>+3300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Belgium 🇧🇪</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Colombia 🇨🇴</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mexico 🇲🇽</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>USA 🇺🇸</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ecuador 🇪🇨</td>
<td>+8000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Morocco 🇲🇦</td>
<td>+8000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Switzerland🇨🇭</td>
<td>+8000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Canada 🇨🇦</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Croatia 🇭🇷</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p>👉 <strong><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fsoccer%2Forganization%2Finternational%2Fcompetition%2Ffifa-world-cup-2026&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3489707">Check out all of the 2026 World Cup odds available on theScore Bet</a></strong></p></blockquote><p>Spain has received the most bets to win the World Cup on <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fsoccer%2Forganization%2Finternational%2Fcompetition%2Ffifa-world-cup-2026&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3489707">theScore Bet</a>, while Brazil has garnered the most handle (money wagered), followed by Spain and Portugal. Brazil hasn't won the event since 2002. Cristiano Ronaldo, now 41 years old, will make a record-breaking sixth World Cup appearance for Portugal, which is still looking for its first championship.</p><p>France, the 2018 champions and finalists in the last two tournaments, and England have earned the second- and third-most bets, respectively.</p><p>At age 38, Lionel Messi is expected to play for Argentina in what's likely to be the final World Cup for him and Ronaldo. However, Argentina isn't drawing much attention, falling outside the top five in both bets and handle.</p><p>Out of the 48 qualifying teams, 32 will advance from the group stage to the knockout round. Below, we present each nation's odds of winning its respective group.</p><p><strong>Jump to:</strong> <a href="#a">Group A</a> | <a href="#b">Group B </a>| <a href="#c">Group C </a>| <a href="#d">Group D</a> | <a href="#e">Group E</a> | <a href="#f">Group F</a> | <a href="#g">Group G</a> | <a href="#h">Group H</a> | <a href="#i">Group I</a> | <a href="#i">Group J </a>| <a href="#k">Group K</a> | <a href="#l">Group L</a></p><h3><a id="a" name="a">Group A</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Country</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Mexico</td>
<td>+110</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UEFA Path D Winner</td>
<td>+180</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Korea Republic</td>
<td>+425</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>South Africa</td>
<td>+1200</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em><strong>UEFA Playoff D:</strong> Denmark, North Macedonia, Czechia, Ireland</em></p><h3><a id="b" name="b">Group B</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Country</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>UEFA Path A Winner</td>
<td>+105</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Switzerland</td>
<td>+135</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Canada</td>
<td>+550</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Qatar</td>
<td>+2500</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em><strong>UEFA Playoff A: </strong>Italy, Northern Ireland, Wales, Bosnia and Herzegovina</em></p><h3><a id="c" name="c">Group C</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Country</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Brazil</td>
<td>-350</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Morocco</td>
<td>+340</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Scotland</td>
<td>+1200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Haiti</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3><a id="d" name="d">Group D</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Country</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>USA</td>
<td>+125</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UEFA Path C Winner</td>
<td>+250</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Paraguay</td>
<td>+300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Australia</td>
<td>+650</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em><strong>UEFA Playoff C:</strong> Turkey, Romania, Slovakia, Kosovo</em></p><h3><a id="e" name="e">Group E</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Country</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Germany</td>
<td>-225</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ecuador</td>
<td>+300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ivory Coast</td>
<td>+700</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Curacao</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3><a id="f" name="f">Group F</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Country</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Netherlands</td>
<td>-140</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Japan</td>
<td>+350</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UEFA Path B Winner</td>
<td>+500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tunisia</td>
<td>+750</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em><strong>UEFA Playoff B:</strong> Ukraine, Sweden, Poland, Albania</em></p><blockquote><p>👉 <strong><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fsoccer%2Forganization%2Finternational%2Fcompetition%2Ffifa-world-cup-2026&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3489707">Check out all of the 2026 World Cup odds available on theScore Bet</a></strong></p></blockquote><h3><a id="g" name="g">Group G</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Country</th>
<th>Odsd</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Belgium</td>
<td>-275</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Egypt</td>
<td>+500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Iran</td>
<td>+700</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>New Zealand</td>
<td>+2000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3><a id="h" name="h">Group H</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Country</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Spain</td>
<td>-500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Uruguay</td>
<td>+450</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Saudi Arabia</td>
<td>+2000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cape Verde</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3><a id="i" name="i">Group I</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Country</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>France</td>
<td>-190</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Norway</td>
<td>+250</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Senegal</td>
<td>+700</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Intercontinental Playoff 2 Winner</td>
<td>+2500</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em><strong>Intercontinental Playoff 2:</strong> Iraq, Bolivia, or Suriname</em></p><h3><a id="j" name="j">Group J</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Country</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Argentina</td>
<td>-300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Austria</td>
<td>+500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Algeria</td>
<td>+600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jordan</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3><a id="k" name="k">Group K</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Country</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Portugal</td>
<td>-200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Colombia</td>
<td>+230</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Intercontinental Playoff 1 Winner</td>
<td>+1100</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Uzbekistan</td>
<td>+2500</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em><strong>Intercontinental Playoff 1:</strong> DR Congo, Jamaica, or New Caledonia</em></p><h3><a id="l" name="l">Group L</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Country</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>England</td>
<td>-350</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Croatia</td>
<td>+350</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ghana</td>
<td>+1300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Panama</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>Jump to:</strong> <a href="#a">Group A</a> | <a href="#b">Group B </a>| <a href="#c">Group C </a>| <a href="#d">Group D</a> | <a href="#e">Group E</a> | <a href="#f">Group F</a> | <a href="#g">Group G</a> | <a href="#h">Group H</a> | <a href="#i">Group I</a> | <a href="#i">Group J </a>| <a href="#k">Group K</a> | <a href="#l">Group L</a></p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

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100 days out from World Cup: Favorites to win tournament, groups

Kon Knueppel (-200) passed Cooper Flagg (+115) as the Rookie of the Year favorite on theScore Bet...

<p>Kon Knueppel (-200) passed Cooper Flagg (+115) as the Rookie of the Year favorite on <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content">theScore Bet</a> over the weekend. Flagg was a -1200 favorite in January, but the Mavericks rookie suffered a foot injury in mid-February that's sidelined him for the past seven games.</p><p>The former Duke teammates are both having historic rookie seasons. Flagg is averaging 20.4 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 3.1 assists. The 19-year-old became the youngest player in NBA history to score 40 points in a game and the first teenager to record at least 30 points in three straight games.</p><p>After a questionable start, Flagg's emerged as one of the most impressive rookies in decades. He's a powerful finisher who's efficient in the midrange and has mastered getting to his spots, and he's a menace defensively. The lone weak spot in Flagg's game is his 3-point shooting, but that's common for high-usage, ball-dominant rookies. He's destined to become a perennial All-NBA player.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>However, Flagg's lack of availability has derailed his Rookie of the Year campaign. That's left the door open for Knueppel, who's been reliable for the soaring Hornets.</p><blockquote><p>👉 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content"><strong>Click here for full ROY and other awards odds on theScore Bet </strong></a></p></blockquote><p>Knueppel isn't just the best shooter in this rookie class; he's one of the best shooters in the NBA. He's already set the rookie record for made 3-pointers with over 20 games remaining. Knueppel leads the NBA in made threes (211) by a wide margin while shooting 44% from deep, the second-highest mark among the 95 players who attempt at least five threes per game.</p><p>The 20-year-old can drill threes off the bounce and on the move, and he's also effective when he puts the ball on the floor as a scorer and creator. He's averaging 19.3 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists for a Charlotte team that's in the Eastern Conference playoff mix. Knueppel's numbers would typically solidify him as the Rookie of the Year, but Flagg's been better when he's suited up.</p><p>However, Flagg's absence gives Knueppel a chance. The last four Rookie of the Year winners played at least 70 games, although the honor doesn't have a minimum games played requirement (unlike the MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, and Most Improved Player awards, where it's set at 65).</p><p>Flagg could miss the rest of the season and still technically win, but would voters reward him if he only plays 49 games? Winners typically don't miss much time.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>ROY (year)</th>
<th>Games played</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Stephon Castle (2025)</td>
<td>81</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Victor Wembanyama (2024)</td>
<td>71</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Paolo Banchero (2023)</td>
<td>72</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Scottie Barnes (2022)</td>
<td>74</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LaMelo Ball (2021 shortened season)</td>
<td>51</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ja Morant (2020 shortened season)</td>
<td>67</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Luka Doncic (2019)</td>
<td>72</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ben Simmons (2018)</td>
<td>81</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Malcolm Brogdon (2017)</td>
<td>75</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Karl-Anthony Towns (2016)</td>
<td>82</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Andrew Wiggins (2015)</td>
<td>82</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>LaMelo Ball missed 21 games in a 72-game season, but that's rare. 2012 Rookie of the Year Kyrie Irving played in 51 games, and he's the only winner since 2010 who missed more than 30 contests.</p><p>Flagg's status is uncertain with 22 games left. If he doesn't play again this season, he'll have missed 33 contests, making it almost impossible for voters to back him with Knueppel on the ballot. The Mavericks won't rush Flagg back from his injury, and they might hold him out even if he's healthy; the 2026 draft marks the last time they control their first-round pick until 2031. Dallas currently owns the league's seventh-worst record.</p><p>A month ago, the Rookie of the Year race seemed like a foregone conclusion. Now it won't be decided until the season's final weeks, and Flagg's continued absence only helps Knueppel's case.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more basketball coverage.</em></p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

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Knueppel passes Flagg as Rookie of the Year favorite

While Selection Sunday is nearly two weeks away, NCAA tourney brackets are already taking shape. ...

<p>While Selection Sunday is nearly two weeks away, NCAA tourney brackets are already taking shape. Programs on the brink are making their final pushes for a coveted spot, battling through the season's final games and upcoming conference tournaments.</p><p>Bubble season has arrived, and we're breaking down several teams' chances of earning a bid using odds from <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3486710">theScore Bet</a>.</p><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3486710">To make the NCAA Tournament odds</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Yes</th>
<th>No</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Auburn</td>
<td>-115</td>
<td>-115</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>California</td>
<td>-145</td>
<td>+115</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Indiana</td>
<td>+120</td>
<td>-150</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Miami (OH)</td>
<td>-375</td>
<td>+260</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ohio State</td>
<td>+180</td>
<td>-240</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Santa Clara</td>
<td>-180</td>
<td>+140</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>TCU</td>
<td>-280</td>
<td>+210</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>USC</td>
<td>+450</td>
<td>-800</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p>👉 <strong><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3486710">You can find full March Madness futures on theScore Bet here </a></strong></p></blockquote><h3>Miami (Ohio)</h3><p>Rarely do 28-0 teams find themselves on the bubble, but Miami (Ohio) is in a peculiar spot. With three games remaining, the RedHawks will likely become the fourth squad since 2000 to finish the regular season undefeated. However, they must win the MAC Tournament, where they'll be heavy favourites, to guarantee a spot in the NCAA tourney.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Miami has played an easy schedule as high-major teams become less willing to book games against quality mid-majors. But that schedule has hurt the team's metrics. The RedHawks rank 82nd overall on <a href="https://kenpom.com/index.php">KenPom</a> and 288th on its strength-of-schedule metric. They're also 48th in the <a href="https://www.ncaa.com/rankings/basketball-men/d1/ncaa-mens-basketball-net-rankings">NET rankings</a>. Does Miami deserve an at-large bid over a major conference program? Though it's hard to imagine the committee leaving an undefeated regular-season team out of March Madness, the RedHawks can put any doubt to rest by winning their conference tournament.</p><h3>Indiana</h3><p><a href="https://www.espn.com/espn/feature/story/_/page/bracketology/ncaa-bracketology-2026-march-madness-men-field-predictions">ESPN's bracketology</a> has Indiana as the last team in the NCAA Tournament, which is an uncomfortable spot as bid stealers emerge during conference tournaments. But the Hoosiers control their own destiny.</p><p>Indiana plays No. 13 Michigan State at home on Sunday, a massive opportunity to boost its resume with a win. The Hoosiers also close the season against Ohio State, a team they're competing with for an at-large bid. The Buckeyes are currently out of the projected field but are one spot ahead of Indiana in the NET rankings and four spots ahead on KenPom. The Hoosiers' 2-10 Quad 1 record might ultimately hurt them, but they still have a chance to improve that over the final three games and the Big Ten Tournament.</p><h3>Ohio State</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/821534/cropped_GettyImages-2259565781.jpg?ts=1772216303" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/821534/w220xh124_GettyImages-2259565781.jpg?ts=1772216303 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/821534/w320xh180_GettyImages-2259565781.jpg?ts=1772216303 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/821534/w640xh360_GettyImages-2259565781.jpg?ts=1772216303 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/821534/w768xh432_GettyImages-2259565781.jpg?ts=1772216303 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/821534/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2259565781.jpg?ts=1772216303 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">John Fisher / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Ohio State's 1-10 Quad 1 record could tank its at-large candidacy. Like Indiana, the Buckeyes have opportunities to emerge on the right side of the bubble with late-season wins that could boost their resume, including a home showdown against No. 8 Purdue on Sunday.</p><p>Unless either team makes an impressive conference tournament run, Ohio State and Indiana's season finale matchup next Saturday in Columbus could knock the loser out of the picture and bolster the winner's at-large stock.</p><h3>Auburn</h3><p>Auburn has a fascinating case, which explains why oddsmakers view its inclusion as a toss-up. ESPN ranks the Tigers among the last teams to make the Big Dance. With a 6-9 SEC record and 15-13 overall, Auburn faces a tough challenge, as squads with losing conference records don't typically get a spot in the tournament. However, the Tigers play in the nation's best conference. The SEC is projected to send 11 teams to March Madness this year, down from the record 14 it sent in 2025.</p><p>According to KenPom, Auburn has played the nation's hardest schedule. And not only do the Tigers play in the deepest conference, but their nonconference schedule features three losses to top-five teams (Michigan, Arizona, and Houston) and a win over No. 15 St. John's. Their 5-11 Quad 1 record includes wins over Arkansas, Florida, and Kentucky - all surefire NCAA tourney teams. Although Auburn must close the season with a winning record against Ole Miss, LSU, and Alabama, its resume already makes a strong case for inclusion.</p><h3>Santa Clara</h3><p>Many of the advanced numbers favor Santa Clara, which sits 41st in the NET rankings and 38th on KenPom. That explains why the Broncos are projected as one of the last teams to make the dance, despite playing in a relatively weak conference and owning a 1-5 Quad 1 record. Santa Clara also lacks a truly impressive win, holding a 1-3 mark against Gonzaga and Saint Mary's - the top teams in the West Coast Conference. A late surge from a power conference bubble team or a surprise bid stealer could knock the Broncos out of qualifying for the NCAA Tournament.</p><h3>California </h3><p>California doesn't have a strong NCAA tourney case, which creates value in betting it misses the dance at +115. The Golden Bears are projected as the first team out and place 57th in the NET rankings and 61st on KenPom. They also sit below their bubble competitors like Indiana, Ohio State, Auburn, and Santa Clara in nearly every notable metric the selection committee uses, including WAB (wins above bubble).</p><p>California's best argument is its 4-4 Quad 1 record. But unless they beat Duke and Virginia in the ACC Tournament, the Golden Bears don't have many opportunities to bolster their resume. They'll finish the regular season against Pitt, Wake Forest, and Georgia Tech - three of the five worst ACC teams.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more basketball coverage.</em></p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34652403/related

Bubble watch: Who's projected in, out of NCAA Tournament?

Saturday marks a rare occasion in college basketball: the top four teams will play each other on ...

<p>Saturday marks a rare occasion in college basketball: the top four teams will play each other on the same day for the third time ever in the regular season and the fifth time when including the NCAA Tournament. If it seems too obvious that this could be a potential Final Four preview, just remember last year - every No. 1 seed did, in fact, advance to the Final Four.</p><p>No. 1 Michigan will face No. 3 Duke at a neutral site, while No. 2 Houston travels to No. 4 Arizona. But the fun doesn't stop at the top four. No. 5 UConn is in action against Villanova in a crucial Big East matchup, and No. 6 Iowa State is playing Big 12 foe No. 23 BYU.</p><p>Welcome to "Mini Madness" as the clock ticks to March. Before you buckle up for a thrilling Saturday, find out what to watch for and the major storylines in the top games of the day.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><blockquote><p>👉 <strong><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3480986">Check out odds for Saturday's college basketball slate on theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-bF8Eo" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/bF8Eo/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="119" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 5:30 p.m.</em></p><h3>UConn heading in wrong direction</h3><p>Dan Hurley's teams typically improve as the season progresses and March inches closer, but this year's squad is going in the opposite direction. After winning 18 straight, UConn is 2-2 in its last four games, including falling to 14-13 Creighton on Wednesday.</p><p>UConn's defense, which Hurley called a "joke" following the recent loss, has allowed 79.3 points per contest over the last four. That's a stark contrast from the 63.8 points per game it was surrendering during its winning streak. Led by Alex Karaban, Solo Ball, Tarris Reed, and others, the Huskies' talent can contend with the nation's best. Three of their final four games are against three of the top four teams in the Big East. UConn's defense must improve, starting with Villanova's barrage of guards.</p><h3>Villanova's guards sparking turnaround</h3><p>Villanova hasn't made the NCAA Tournament since Jay Wright retired, but Kevin Willard is on track to end the three-year drought in his first season roaming the Wildcats' sidelines. The team boasts a 21-5 overall record and is 12-3 in a relatively weak Big East, where Villanova, UConn, and St. John's are all in contention for the regular-season conference title. Additionally, the Wildcats are 17-9 against the spread, tied for the third-best record among power conference schools.</p><p>Villanova's offensive attack is led by its guards, starting with Acaden Lewis, Tyler Perkins, and Bryce Lindsay. Meanwhile, UConn's point-of-attack defense has had difficulty containing opposing guards, a weakness the Wildcats should exploit by knifing into the lane and kicking to shooters. Both teams also feature an elite playmaker: Silas Demary Jr. leads the conference in assists per game (6.5), while Lewis is second (5.3).</p><p>The Wilcats own the conference's third-best 3-point percentage, but the Huskies' strength is defending the perimeter, leading the Big East in opponent 3-point percentage. If UConn can prevent Villanova's guards from penetrating and effectively contest their threes, then the Huskies should get back in the win column in a desperate spot. Plus, the Wildcats have struggled against elite competition, going 3-4 in Quad 1 games.</p><blockquote><p>👉 <strong><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3480986">Check out odds for Saturday's college basketball slate on theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-BSQpg" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/BSQpg/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="119" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 6:30 p.m.</em></p><h3>Title favorites clash</h3><p>Michigan is the favorite to win the national title (+350) on theScore Bet, while Duke owns the third-best odds (+650). They're both heavy favorites to win their respective regular-season conference titles, and these are the two highest-rated teams on <a href="https://kenpom.com/index.php">KenPom</a>. Rarely do top nonconference opponents clash in February, but this neutral-site showcase in Washington, D.C., could provide fans with a national title preview.</p><p>The Wolverines are a perfect 10-0 in Quad 1 games, including wins over Michigan State, Nebraska, Purdue, Gonzaga, and Auburn. Their lone loss all season was to Wisconsin. Duke is 10-2 in Quad 1 games, with wins over Kansas, Arkansas, Florida, and Michigan State, and losses to Texas Tech and North Carolina. Although Michigan's resume is slightly more impressive and it plays in a tougher conference, the program's real edge lies in close contests. The Blue Devils are 1-2 in matchups decided within five points, while the Wolverines are 3-1. Bonus note: 69% of Duke's games go under the total. Meanwhile, 58% of Michigan's contests go under. The total is set at 148.5 for the nation's top two defenses.</p><h3>Boozer faces tough test vs. Michigan's front line</h3><p>Cameron Boozer is the runaway favorite (-5000 on theScore Bet) to win National Player of the Year. He was already projected to be a top pick in the 2026 NBA Draft and has been as good as advertised, averaging 22.8 points, 10 rebounds, and 3.9 assists. Boozer might be an undersized big at the next level, but his passing and shooting skills make up for any concerns. He has the third-best odds (+1000) to be selected No. 1 overall in June, due only to the standout performances of Darryn Peterson and AJ Dybantsa.</p><p>But this is an intriguing matchup for Boozer. Michigan's frontcourt - featuring Aday Mara, Yaxel Landeborg, and Morez Johnson Jr. - is the best in the country and the primary reason behind the nation's top defense. With the personnel to crowd Boozer's post touches and limit his impact on the offensive glass, the Wolverines have the tools to shut him down.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-2oS9e" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/2oS9e/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="119" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 10:30 p.m.</em></p><h3>Iowa State trending up, BYU trending down</h3><p>BYU started the season 16-1 but has struggled lately, going 3-6 and allowing 85.4 points per game over the stretch. While the Cougars' offense is prolific, ranking ninth on KenPom, their defense lags at 47th. In its three wins since mid-January, BYU had to score at least 90 points in each - an unlikely feat against Iowa State's eighth-ranked defense.</p><p>The Cyclones are the only Big 12 squad with both a top-four scoring offense and defense, and they're coming off wins over No. 9 Kansas and No. 2 Houston. Aside from the fact that Iowa State has the personnel to shut down the Cougars, it also leads the Big 12 in 3-point percentage. BYU won't earn enough stops to compete in this one.</p><h3>Dybantsa showcase</h3><p>Dybantsa has the second-best odds (+375) to be the top pick in the NBA draft. He's carried BYU in virtually every game, averaging a nation-leading 24.8 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 3.8 assists. His co-stars Robert Wright and Richie Saunders average 18.5 and 18 points, respectively. But they don't get much help elsewhere, as no other player on the team is averaging over eight points.</p><p>Although Dybantsa has seen his fair share of defensive attention as the top player on every scouting report, this will be a challenge for the five-star prospect. Iowa State has various bodies to throw his way, including Joshua Jefferson, Milan Momcilovic, and Tamin Lipsey.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-xFO0i" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/xFO0i/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="127" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 3 p.m ET</em></p><h3>Top offense vs. top defense</h3><p>Arizona's scoring offense ranks first in the Big 12, while Houston's scoring defense tops the conference. In their most recent game - a road loss to Iowa State - the Cougars' offensive inconsistency hurt them. Their aggressive defense and relentless ball pressure force turnovers, which lead to transition opportunities. However, Houston struggles to score when forced to play half-court offense, as seen when Iowa State committed only three turnovers. For the Cougars to beat the Wildcats, they'll need to force turnovers.</p><p>Arizona falters from beyond the arc, ranking last in the Big 12 in made threes per game. To compensate, the Wildcats rely on offensive rebounding to generate quality shots and create extra possessions, leading the conference in offensive boards per contest. Houston, meanwhile, is the third-worst defensive rebounding team but has the physicality to match Arizona. The Cougars will pack the paint, emphasize rebounding, and force the Wildcats to beat them from deep.</p><h3>Peat's absence</h3><p>Koa Peat, Arizona's second-leading scorer, left the team's loss to Texas Tech early with a lower leg muscle strain. The Wildcats won the following contest against BYU without Peat, but they missed his 13.8 points per game and offensive gravity. While Arizona scored only 75 points in each of its last two games, it averaged 86.4 points in its 10 prior outings. Without Peat, Jaden Bradley, Motiejus Krivas, Ivan Kharchenkov, and others must carry a larger scoring load.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more basketball coverage.</em></p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

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Mini Madness: 8 things to watch during Saturday's electric lineup

Welcome to our recurring look at the top contenders for the NBA's various individual awards. This...

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NBA awards watch: Eligibility cutoffs mar major races

Negativity has increasingly dominated the discussions surrounding the NBA's All-Star Game and var...

<p>Negativity has increasingly dominated the discussions surrounding the NBA's All-Star Game and various events. While the festivities may have deteriorated, saving All-Star Weekend isn't toward the top of commissioner Adam Silver's growing list of concerns.</p><p>Enjoy All-Star Saturday night and Sunday's game for what it is, not what it was. At least watch with an open mind. We've got you covered with picks for the 3-Point Contest, Slam Dunk contest, and All-Star Game MVP in the revamped format.</p><blockquote><p><strong>👉 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba-all-star&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3477021">Check out All-Star Weekend events and odds on theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba-all-star%2Fsection%2F3-point-contest&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3477021">3-Point Contest odds</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Kon Knueppel</td>
<td>+350</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Damian Lillard</td>
<td>+450</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jamal Murray</td>
<td>+550</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Devin Booker</td>
<td>+600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Donovan Mitchell</td>
<td>+600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tyrese Maxey</td>
<td>+600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Norman Powell</td>
<td>+850</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bobby Portis</td>
<td>+1500</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>🏀 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=859a408e-8abe-47df-bd99-15d6ca8f7801&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=7&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=1&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba-all-star%2Fsection%2F3-point-contest&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3477021">Pick: Tyrese Maxey (+600)</a>
</h3><p>Donovan Mitchell leads the NBA in made threes, while Kon Knueppel, Jamal Murray, and Tyrese Maxey all rank in the top 10. However, Mitchell also leads in off-the-dribble threes. Those kinds of players don't always fare well in this contest because they're shooting off a rack, not off the bounce. That's why Mitchell is further down the oddsboard.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Bobby Portis has the best 3-point percentage of this group (45%), but he's attempted by far the fewest threes and is considered a worse shooter than his counterparts.</p><p>Damian Lillard is a complete wild card. He has yet to play this season while rehabbing a torn Achilles, making him the first player since 1989 to participate in the 3-Point Contest without appearing in a game. Chasing his third title, Lillard has previously dominated the event. Only Larry Bird and Craig Hodges have won three times. Lillard's health presumably won't be a concern, but there's a risk banking on a guy who hasn't seen any action.</p><p>Looking at catch-and-shoot numbers is beneficial. Kon Knueppel has made 327 catch-and-shoot threes, the most among the field and third-most in the NBA. However, a rookie has never won.</p><p>Tyrese Maxey has recorded the second-most catch-and-shoot threes. He's become a prolific shooter, drilling 38% of his shots from deep. Although his 3-point percentage has slipped over the last few weeks - likely due to fatigue - he's as good a shooter as anyone in the field.</p><p>Maxey's percentage also isn't as high as some of his competitors, but that's largely due to his high volume - he attempts 8.8 threes per night, the league's seventh-most. On track to earn his first All-NBA selection, Maxey winning the 3-Point Contest would add more accolades to his career-best season.</p><h3><a href="http://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba-all-star%2Fsection%2Fdunk-contest&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3477021">Slam Dunk contest odds</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Carter Bryant</td>
<td>+175</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jaxson Hayes</td>
<td>+175</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Keshad Johnson</td>
<td>+400</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jase Richardson</td>
<td>+550</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>🏀 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=29e35cee-4e37-448d-907d-3d5cc9c9036d&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=5&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=1&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba-all-star%2Fsection%2Fdunk-contest&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3477021">Pick: Keshad Johnson (+400)</a>
</h3><p>It's depressing to look at these names and reminisce about how exciting the Slam Dunk contest used to be. Casual NBA fans tuning in might not even know any of the contestants, a problem for what should be the weekend's marquee event.</p><p>Lakers center Jaxson Hayes leads this group with 75 dunks in 2025-26, though many of those are putbacks or lobs. As a 7-footer, Hayes faces a disadvantage in this event, since it's less impressive for someone that tall to dunk. Meanwhile, Carter Bryant has thrown down only nine dunks, but the rookie has showcased impressive hops throughout the season.</p><p>Jase Richardson is a storyline to watch because his dad, Jason Richardson, won the dunk contest in 2002 and 2003. The younger Richardson isn't a noteworthy leaper, but he could earn points with the judges if he pays tribute to his dad.</p><p>I'm picking Keshad Johnson, who has nine dunks in 21 games this campaign. He recorded a 42-inch vertical at the 2024 combine, the highest of any prospect that year and the top mark among the four dunk contest contestants. Johnson doesn't play much for the Heat, which is why few fans have heard of him. But this competition isn't about popularity or overall skill. Johnson is the highest flier in the group and is ready to make a name for himself in Los Angeles.</p><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba-all-star%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thscore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3477021">All-Star Game MVP odds</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Victor Wembanyama</td>
<td>+500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kevin Durant</td>
<td>+800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cade Cunningham</td>
<td>+1000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Anthony Edwards</td>
<td>+1100</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tyrese Maxey</td>
<td>+1100</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jaylen Brown</td>
<td>+1200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Luka Doncic</td>
<td>+1200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jalen Brunson</td>
<td>+1500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Donovan Mitchell</td>
<td>+1600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jamal Murray</td>
<td>+1600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kawhi Leonard</td>
<td>+1600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LeBron James</td>
<td>+1600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nikola Jokic</td>
<td>+1600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Devin Booker</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>🏀 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=f132f762-08c0-4d29-9ca1-452c89e2764f&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=12&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=1&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba-all-star%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3477021">Pick: Anthony Edwards (+1100)</a>
</h3><p>Another All-Star Game brings another new format that the NBA is experimenting with in an attempt to return excitement and meaning to a meaningless, unserious exhibition. This year, the league split the 24 players into three teams: one international squad and two American-born squads.</p><p>The hope is that players will be more motivated by representing their country. However, the international players aren't playing for their individual nations. They're on Team World. And the U.S. players are split into two squads, so it's not the best Americans against the best internationals.</p><p>Instead of picking which team will win an event that showcases players exhibiting less effort than a 65-plus pickup game at the local YMCA, let's target an MVP.</p><p>When most players barely try, winning MVP isn't too hard if you, well, try. Let's start with who won't win the award: Luka Doncic and Nikola Jokic have shown a remarkable lack of respect for the event by not even pretending to care. So, who actually cares?</p><p>Wembanyama is the favorite because of his comments that he'll do his best in the All-Star Game and his plans to make it competitive again. He also has the talent to accomplish mesmerizing feats on both ends of the floor. Entertainment value is important for picking an All-Star Game MVP.</p><p>Let's target another fiercely competitive guy. Anthony Edwards has solid value as a high-flier and knockdown long-range shooter. While his intensity may have been inconsistent in the two All-Star Games he played in, Edwards elevates his performance against the league's best and is an unbelievable competitor. There's reason to believe he'll take over Sunday night.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more basketball coverage.</em></p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34488248/related

NBA All-Star betting: 3-Point Contest, Slam Dunk contest, and game's MVP

LeBron James' record-setting streak of 21 straight All-NBA appearances officially came to an end ...

<p>LeBron James' record-setting streak of 21 straight All-NBA appearances officially came to an end after he sat out his 18th game of the season Tuesday against the Spurs.</p><p>The league requires players to play at least 65 games to be eligible for season-long awards or All-NBA selection. While the rule was originally intended to discourage load management, it's had some seemingly unintended consequences since being implemented ahead of the 2023-24 season.</p><p>James' run isn't the only one ending. Giannis Antetokounmpo has made nine straight All-NBA teams, the second-longest active streak, but that's over, as he's already missed 22 games.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Other marquee players might also miss out on these honors because of the games requirement.</p><p><strong>How many more games can these stars miss and stay eligible?</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th># of games</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Nikola Jokic</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Steph Curry</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Victor Wembanyama</td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kawhi Leonard</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Luka Doncic</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</td>
<td>11</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Nikola Jokic, Luka Doncic, Victor Wembanyama, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander would be virtual locks for the All-NBA first team if this rule didn't exist.</p><p>Jokic, who has been remarkably durable throughout his career, has made seven straight All-NBA teams, but a knee injury kept him out for 16 games this season. He can't miss more than one game in his chase for eight consecutive appearances, which would become the longest active streak. He'll also become ineligible for MVP voting if he misses two more contests.</p><p>Doncic made five straight All-NBA first teams before playing 50 games last season. He's missed the last three games with a hamstring injury but should return following the All-Star break. Doncic can't suffer another serious injury, both for the Lakers' sake and his All-NBA prospects.</p><p>Wembanyama has never won Defensive Player of the Year despite his undisputed claim as the league's best defender. He's the current favorite to win the award at <a href="http://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba%2Fsection%2Fawards&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3476885">-300 on theScore Bet</a> but won't be eligible if he misses four more games. The French sensation has dealt with various injuries throughout his career, and the Spurs dialed back his minutes following a month-long absence. He averaged 35 minutes per game in November before his injury and averaged 27 per game in January. If he gets hurt again, Chet Holmgren, who currently has the second-best odds behind Wembanyama at <a href="http://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba%2Fsection%2Fawards&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3476885">+300</a>, would likely win Defensive Player of the Year.</p><p>Gilgeous-Alexander has more leeway than his fellow contenders and is headed toward his second straight MVP as long as he doesn't miss 12 games. However, he's sat out the last four games with an abdominal strain, and his absence could extend beyond the All-Star break.</p><p>Before the season, the first fully international All-NBA team was a real possibility thanks to Antetokounmpo, Jokic, Doncic, Gilgeous-Alexander, and Wembanyama. But that ship has sailed now that Antetokounmpo can't make it.</p><p>If the typical superstars are ineligible, who will take their places? Cade Cunningham, who's been the best player on the East-leading Pistons, has the third-best odds to win MVP and is on track for first-team All-NBA. He'd become the first Piston to earn a first-team selection since Grant Hill in 1996-97.</p><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3476885">MVP odds</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</td>
<td>-200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nikola Jokic</td>
<td>+275</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cade Cunningham</td>
<td>+1500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Luka Doncic</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jaylen Brown</td>
<td>+3300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Anthony Edwards</td>
<td>+15000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tyrese Maxey</td>
<td>+15000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p>🏀 <strong><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba%2Fsection%2Fawards&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3476885">Find full awards odds on theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><p>Jaylen Brown, Anthony Edwards, Donovan Mitchell, Jalen Brunson, Tyrese Maxey, and Kevin Durant should all be in contention for All-NBA. A collection of those players - who should be eligible, barring any major injuries after the All-Star break - will make up the second and third teams.</p><p>Another future Hall of Famer's All-NBA streak is poised to end. Steph Curry made the last five All-NBA teams and 11 of the last 12. However, he's already missed 16 games, including the last five with a lingering knee injury. Missing two more games will rule him out for the honor.</p><p>Kawhi Leonard has made six All-NBA teams, but he only reached the 65-game mark in three of those seasons. (He also earned one of his second-team selections in the shortened 2019-20 campaign.) Leonard's resume would look much different if this requirement had been enacted earlier. Notably, he was an early adopter of load management. This season, Leonard's playing at an All-NBA level, but he can only miss four more games and still earn his seventh All-NBA nod.</p><p>Although the league needed to address load management, the pendulum has arguably swung too far the other way. The 65-game benchmark might be too high. All-NBA is supposed to be a significant career achievement, and the selections should provide a snapshot of the players who defined the regular season. What's the point of building All-NBA teams if they don't feature Jokic, Doncic, Wembanyama, and other worthy superstars?</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more basketball coverage.</em></p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34475852/related

All-NBA bubble: Who's ineligible, on the fence for season-long awards

The 2026 NBA Draft is projected to feature one of the most star-studded classes in decades, which...

<p>The 2026 NBA Draft is projected to feature one of the most star-studded classes in decades, which partly explains why one-third of the league has begun its tanking efforts before the All-Star break. Many of the teams that didn't land a top-four pick in the talented 2025 draft are back for another bite at the apple.</p><p>Entering the college basketball season, the top pick in the draft was a three-horse race between five-star freshmen Darryn Peterson, AJ Dybantsa, and Cameron Boozer. Three months into the campaign, nothing has changed. However, a clear favorite has emerged among the trio.</p><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba-draft&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3475469">2026 No. 1 pick odds</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Darryn Peterson</td>
<td>-350</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AJ Dybantsa</td>
<td>+375</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cameron Boozer</td>
<td>+1000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Caleb Wilson</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Keaton Wagler</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p>👉 <strong><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba-draft&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3475469">See the complete list of odds for No. 1 overall on theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><h3>Darryn Peterson</h3><p>Any team searching for elite guard play won't have to look far. Peterson is slated to be the best scoring guard to enter the league since Anthony Edwards. He, of course, has a long way to go to reach the level of the perennial All-NBA player, but his ceiling is that high. Regardless of positional need, the team drafting first would be foolish to pass on the Kansas star.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Peterson is a tough shotmaker who operates on all three levels. He's shooting 55.2% from two-point range and 41.9% from three on over six attempts per game. He can create for himself, play off the ball in a spot-up role, and run the pick-and-roll. He's 6-foot-6 and unguardable in isolation, possessing athleticism reminiscent of a young Kobe Bryant. Peterson glides to the rim with ease, ignoring help defenders thrown his way. He's scoring an excellent 1.35 points per shot at the rim, according to Synergy, and 1.61 points per spot-up possession, the third-best mark among qualifying major conference players.</p><p>His scoring prowess will undoubtedly translate to the next level. Scouts' only concern is that Peterson has missed 11 games due to illness and a lingering hamstring injury. His absences, often announced hours before tipoff, have raised questions about his desire to play. But those questions were asked of Edwards leading up to the 2020 draft, and injury concerns plagued Kyrie Irving, who played only 11 games for Duke before making the jump to the NBA. Look at how those No. 1 overall picks turned out.</p><p>While the other players vying to be the top pick would be worthy of such in most drafts, any franchise that lets Peterson slip past could face catastrophe.</p><h3>AJ Dybantsa</h3><p>The Dybantsa buzz grew louder following a 36-point outing in Tuesday's win over Baylor. BYU's freshman sensation leads the nation in scoring, averaging 24.5 points per game, plus he's efficient (64.1% true shooting percentage). Dybantsa, who's produced a 43-point game and five contests with at least 30, is athletically gifted and a skilled prober out of the pick-and-roll, an area in which he's more advanced than Peterson. He's most frequently used as a pick-and-roll ball-handler, scoring 1.15 points per possession, the nation's fourth-best mark among major conference players who average at least five pick-and-roll possessions per game. He's also a freight train in transition.</p><p>Dybantsa's tools should translate to the NBA, especially his patience, excellent footwork, and touch around the rim. He's 6-foot-9 with a 7-foot wingspan, allowing him to reach the basket with ease and shoot over perimeter defenders. The 19-year-old has an impressive handle for someone his size, looking eerily similar to Kevin Durant, whom he tied for the Big 12 freshman record of four outings with at least 35 points.</p><p>In most years, Dybantsa would be hard to pass up with the top pick. However, BYU faced Kansas in January, and the best player on the floor was representing the Jayhawks. Matching up in front of NBA personnel, Dybantsa finished with 17 points in 34 minutes, while Peterson scored 18 points in only 20 minutes because he missed most of the second half with an injury.</p><h3>Cameron Boozer</h3><p>Talent evaluators have eyed Cameron Boozer as a potential top pick in the 2026 draft dating back to his high school years on the USA Basketball circuit. Sometimes, players projected to have immense success from a young age flail out and don't live up to expectations. That's not the case for Boozer.</p><p>He's averaging a double-double, with 23 points and 10 rebounds per game. And I'd be remiss if I didn't mention his four assists per contest. At 6-foot-9, Boozer is a small big man who can stretch the floor as a shooter and passer. What position he'll play in the league is unclear because of his size and lack of elite athleticism, but his skill set allows him to play the 3, 4, or even 5 in a small-ball lineup. NBA teams typically covet that rare versatility.</p><p>Boozer can operate with his back to the basket in the low- and mid-post. He also excels in transition, soars in for offensive boards, and spaces the floor as a pick-and-pop threat, shooting 38% from deep on nearly four attempts per game.</p><p>Despite being a potential franchise cornerstone in his own right, Boozer could wind up falling to third overall in a stacked draft class.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more basketball coverage.</em></p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34465772/related

Race for NBA's No. 1 pick: Could Boozer or Dybantsa leap Peterson?

As the Super Bowl inches closer, the picks keep coming.   We provided our best bets for the Super...

<p>As the Super Bowl inches closer, the picks keep coming. </p><p>We provided our best bets for the Super Bowl MVP <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3470047" href="https://thescore.com/news/3470047">here</a>, and now it's time to turn our attention to everyone's favorite types of bets - touchdown scorers and player props. </p><p>Our trio of betting writers are in the thick of a postseason competition. Here's where they stand going into the Super Bowl:</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Writer</th>
<th>Playoff record (W-L)</th>
<th>Bankroll</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Oshtry</td>
<td>15-15</td>
<td>$1266.19</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Patterson</td>
<td>12-19</td>
<td>$1249.50</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Deeg</td>
<td>13-17</td>
<td>$980.62</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Let's get to the bets!</p><blockquote><p>👉 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2Fe50feef0-c519-4617-a04e-0400882c8aeb&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3471434"><strong>Check out all of the player props available for the Super Bowl on theScore Bet here</strong></a></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799749/Touchdown_Scorers-Green.jpg?ts=1756828040" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799749/Touchdown_Scorers-Green.jpg?ts=1756828040 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799749/Touchdown_Scorers-Green.jpg?ts=1756828040 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799749/Touchdown_Scorers-Green.jpg?ts=1756828040 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799749/Touchdown_Scorers-Green.jpg?ts=1756828040 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799749/Touchdown_Scorers-Green.jpg?ts=1756828040 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Jump to: </strong><a href="#player%20props">Player props</a> | <a href="#Summary">Summary</a></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="New England Patriots (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Gl4yG" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Gl4yG/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🙌 Bet: <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=ae4b783a-75ba-4ce2-97d7-2bc6fdef1c65&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=13&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=4&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2Fe50feef0-c519-4617-a04e-0400882c8aeb&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3471434">Anytime TD (+225)</a>
</h3><blockquote><p><em>Oshtry - Bet $40 to win $90 </em></p></blockquote><p>Henry has caught eight touchdowns this season, including one in the playoffs. He's emerged as Drake Maye's main red-zone target. He leads the Patriots in receiving touchdowns and is second in total receptions. If Maye throws a touchdown pass, there's a solid chance Henry is on the receiving end.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Seattle Seahawks (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-DYSeU" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/DYSeU/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🙌 Bet: <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=f500165d-233d-4fd1-a42b-549fc99748ea&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=13&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=4&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2Fe50feef0-c519-4617-a04e-0400882c8aeb&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3471434">Anytime TD (+225)</a>
</h3><blockquote><p><em>Deeg - Bet $75 to win $168.75 </em></p></blockquote><p>Barner hasn't seen a ton of action in the playoffs so far, but I love this matchup for him to score a touchdown. New England has struggled mightily against tight ends in the red zone this season, allowing a 124.4 passer rating when the position is targeted, good for 29th in the league. Seattle also uses Barner as its tush-push quarterback, so there's a scenario in which he gets a rushing touchdown at the 1-yard line.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Seattle Seahawks (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-9FA8o" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/9FA8o/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🙌 Bet: <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=4b828d67-b447-4a01-b292-6235a40500e1&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=9&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=2&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2Fe50feef0-c519-4617-a04e-0400882c8aeb&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3471434">Anytime TD (+350)</a>
</h3><blockquote><p><em>Patterson - Bet $25 to win $81.25</em></p></blockquote><p>I don't expect Jaxon Smith-Njigba to be shut down completely by Christian Gonzalez, but I do think he'll be held in check. That should open the door for other Seahawks receivers to get involved, and there's no more dangerous player on the field in terms of taking it to the house than Shaheed. He's scored three special teams touchdowns since the start of December (seven games). He could easily sneak behind the Patriots' secondary for a long score, and he's also involved in the Seahawks' rushing attack.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796841/player_props-Blue.jpg?ts=1754582787" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796841/player_props-Blue.jpg?ts=1754582787 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796841/player_props-Blue.jpg?ts=1754582787 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796841/player_props-Blue.jpg?ts=1754582787 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796841/player_props-Blue.jpg?ts=1754582787 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796841/player_props-Blue.jpg?ts=1754582787 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Seattle Seahawks (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-bzBAS" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/bzBAS/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>
<a id="player props" name="player%20props">🏈</a> Bet: <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=561b3be6-88ed-49b1-8599-b59093b46476&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=49&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=29&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2Fe50feef0-c519-4617-a04e-0400882c8aeb&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3471434">Over 6.5 receptions (-145)</a>
</h3><blockquote><p><em>Oshtry - Bet $100 to win $69</em></p></blockquote><p>It's one of the worst cliches in sports, but big-time players show up in big-time moments. And it's usually true. There's nobody playing Sunday night who I trust to have a huge outing more than Smith-Njigba, the consistently tremendous Seahawks wideout. This isn't a great price, but you have to imagine Darnold will consistently target his most reliable weapon in the biggest game of both their lives. JSN's caught at least seven passes in 14 of his 19 games this season.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="New England Patriots" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-K11vG" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/K11vG/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🏈 Bet: <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=f0998d64-bd5f-4de1-8e84-bfab517fc366&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=7&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=2&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2Fe50feef0-c519-4617-a04e-0400882c8aeb&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3471434">Record game's most rushing yards (+250)</a>
</h3><blockquote><p><em>Oshtry - Bet $25 to win $62 </em></p></blockquote><p>Kenneth Walker III is understandably the heavy favorite because he rushed for nearly twice as many yards as Stevenson did during the season and earned significantly more carries. But this game is different. Stevenson has taken on a heavier workload during the playoffs as Maye struggles to find a rhythm. I'd expect the Pats to feed their go-to back to provide Maye with some relief. Plus, the Seahawks' rushing defense isn't as prolific as its passing defense. Meanwhile, the Patriots have allowed just 71 rushing yards per game in three playoff contests. It could be a rough day for Walker.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Seattle Seahawks (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-uqP7Z" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/uqP7Z/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🏈 Bet: <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=a90df3fe-f356-49d0-a95d-59275cdc1790&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=43&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=23&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2Fe50feef0-c519-4617-a04e-0400882c8aeb&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3471434">Over 32.5 receiving yards (-110)</a>
</h3><blockquote><p><em>Deeg - Bet $100 to win $87</em></p></blockquote><p>Kupp has hit this number in five of his last seven games, and he's played a crucial role in Darnold's success during the postseason. He has a 22% target share in the playoffs and should be Darnold's security blanket Sunday as New England focuses on stopping Smith-Njigba. Kupp has a Super Bowl MVP under his belt, and this number feels far too low for how he's played in recent weeks.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="New England Patriots (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-baTjC" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/baTjC/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🏈 Bet: <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=fec41fbf-601b-4262-97b4-d7d0c12c5cdf&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=43&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=23&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2Fe50feef0-c519-4617-a04e-0400882c8aeb&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3471434">Over 26.5 receiving yards (-115)</a>
</h3><blockquote><p><em>Deeg - Bet $100 to win $87</em></p></blockquote><p>Hollins has exceeded this number nine times in his last 11 games, and he's averaging 50.8 receiving yards per game during that stretch. He's run the second-most routes on a per-game basis among Patriots wideouts since Oct. 25 and has consistently been one of Maye's favorite targets.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Seattle Seahawks (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-9FA8o" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/9FA8o/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🏈 Bet: <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=f080e145-1712-4679-8cd8-5a96d8a0392b&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=47&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=20&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2Fe50feef0-c519-4617-a04e-0400882c8aeb&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3471434">Longest reception over 19.5 yards (+135)</a>
</h3><blockquote><p><em>Patterson - Bet $80 to win $108</em></p></blockquote><p>When Shaheed gets involved, he's a dangerous deep threat. The speedster has a reception of at least 20 yards in three of the last five games he recorded a catch. I like his chances to score, so I certainly like his chances of catching a pass of at least 20 yards. The Patriots' secondary is very strong and doesn't allow many deep passes, but all it takes is one for Shaheed to cash this bet.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Seattle Seahawks (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-2YyyK" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/2YyyK/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🏈 Bet: <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=e9c740bc-3174-4b29-bc98-9f59293c2e25&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=11&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=5&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2Fe50feef0-c519-4617-a04e-0400882c8aeb&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3471434">Over 0.5 sacks</a>
</h3><blockquote><p><em>Patterson - Bet $50 to win $60</em></p></blockquote><p>Maye has taken five sacks in three straight playoff games, and Lawrence has gotten to the quarterback in back-to-back contests. It's no secret that the Patriots' offensive line has struggled, and I don't see them drastically improving in two weeks. Lawrence has been a dominant force for Seattle in the last couple of months, forcing six fumbles in his last eight games. I expect another big-time performance from the former Cowboy.</p><h3>🏈 Bet: <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=abd7b882-1914-4b73-8901-1c65ae3d30ce&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=11&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=1&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2Fe50feef0-c519-4617-a04e-0400882c8aeb&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3471434">Game to go to overtime (+1000)</a>
</h3><p><em>Oshtry - Bet $10 to win $100</em></p><p>This isn't a player prop, but I'll take a swing on this game going to overtime. A projected low-scoring battle between two elite defenses, this contest is more likely to be tied at the end of regulation than Super Bowls of the past. With that said, we've had two extra frames in the past 10 years (2017 and 2024), so these odds - which suggest overtime should happen once every 10 Super Bowls - feel incorrect.</p><h3>
<a id="Summary" name="Summary">S</a>ummary</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Patterson</th>
<th>Oshtry</th>
<th>Deeg</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Shaheed TD</td>
<td>Henry TD</td>
<td>Barner TD</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Shaheed long rec. o19.5</td>
<td>Stevenson most rush yd.</td>
<td>Kupp o32.5 rec. yd.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Lawrence o0.5 sacks</td>
<td>JSN o6.5 recs</td>
<td>Hollins o26.5 rec. yd.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td></td>
<td>Game to go to OT</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34383080/related

Super Bowl props, TD scorers: Who will shine under the brightest lights?

While Giannis Antetokounmpo remains a Buck and there wasn't a Luka Doncic-level blockbuster, team...

<p>While Giannis Antetokounmpo remains a Buck and there wasn't a Luka Doncic-level blockbuster, teams across the league were active leading up to the NBA trade deadline, positioning themselves to compete this season and beyond.</p><p>The Wizards, Jazz, and Pacers used the deadline to improve for the 2026-27 campaign. Each of them added win-now veterans - Washington with Anthony Davis, Utah with Jaren Jackson Jr., and Indiana with Ivica Zubac - while planning to tank this season in hopes of landing a franchise-altering talent in the draft.</p><p>If odds for the 2027 champion were posted, all three organizations would have soared up the board in the last 48 hours. But we still have to crown a 2026 winner first.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Cavaliers are the only team whose moves significantly increased its title chances, led by their acquisition of James Harden in exchange for Darius Garland. They went from having the eighth-best odds to win the Finals at +2000 to the third best at +1200, behind only the Thunder (+110) and Nuggets (+480) on <a href="http://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3471721">theScore Bet</a>.</p><p>Cleveland jumped from the fourth-best odds to win the Eastern Conference at +440 to the favorite at +300. Meanwhile, the Clippers, who have won 17 of their last 23 games and were surging into the playoff picture, saw their championship odds plummet from +3300 to +20000 following the Harden and Zubac trades. Kawhi Leonard remains on the roster but seems likely to be moved this summer.</p><blockquote><p>🏀 <strong><a href="http://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3471721">Check out all of the NBA futures available on theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><p>After three-and-a-half seasons and just two playoff series wins, Cleveland ultimately decided that a Garland-and-Donovan Mitchell backcourt was too physically challenged and not talented enough to achieve deep postseason success. Garland's extensive injury history, imperfect fit alongside Mitchell, and poor playoff performances led to his departure.</p><p>The Cavs now hope Harden can help them escape postseason purgatory. Yes, the same Harden who notoriously shrinks in the playoffs.</p><p>But that's not an entirely fair assessment of the trade. While Harden's late-season shortcomings might ultimately prevent Cleveland from winning the East, adding the former MVP significantly bolsters its chances. That alone makes the deal worth it for a team going all-in to challenge a weakened conference. The Cavaliers replaced an 18-point-per-game scorer with a 25-point-per-game scorer who's also a better playmaker.</p><p>Harden, who's third in the NBA in assists per game, is one of the league's best distributors and and now inherits two exciting pick-and-roll partners in Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen. His scoring took a back seat to Joel Embiid in Philadelphia and Leonard in Los Angeles, and, in Cleveland, he'll defer to Mitchell, the league's sixth-highest scorer. Yet, with Harden pouring in 25.4 points of his own, he and Mitchell have become one of two pairs of teammates who are both averaging at least 25 points this season.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/820827/cropped_GettyImages-2199469272.jpg?ts=1770392235" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/820827/w220xh124_GettyImages-2199469272.jpg?ts=1770392235 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/820827/w320xh180_GettyImages-2199469272.jpg?ts=1770392235 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/820827/w640xh360_GettyImages-2199469272.jpg?ts=1770392235 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/820827/w768xh432_GettyImages-2199469272.jpg?ts=1770392235 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/820827/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2199469272.jpg?ts=1770392235 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jesse D. Garrabrant / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Before bringing in Harden, the Cavs traded De'Andre Hunter to the Kings for Dennis Schroder and Keon Ellis. The organization cut ties with Hunter after only 70 games following a disappointing 2025-26 campaign in which he'd shot 42.3% from the field and 30.8% from three. Flipping him for a backcourt depth piece and a great perimeter defender is a quality return.</p><p>The Cavs are a deadline winner, but would I go as far as oddsmakers and declare them the favorites in the East? That might be a reach. Although Garland contributed to the group's playoff blemishes, the frontcourt pairing of Mobley and Allen has floundered against increased physicality during certain series.</p><p>Even as Mobley nurses a calf injury, Cleveland has won 14 of its last 19 contests. However, the Knicks, who were the favorites to win the East before the Cavs leaped them, remain the most talented team in the conference. While New York also carries flaws, some of which were exposed during a rough January stretch, it has won eight straight and has plenty of playoff experience. Then there's the Pistons, who are tied with the Knicks for the second-best odds to win the East at +350 on <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3471721">theScore Bet</a>. Detroit holds a five-game cushion for first place in the conference, and while its core hasn't won a playoff series together, the team's physicality, matched with the NBA's second-best defense, will be a nightmare matchup for any challenger. </p><p>At this time last year, the idea of the Pacers making the Finals was an afterthought, so a few of this season's unlikely contenders, such as the Celtics (+370) and 76ers (+1000), deserve consideration as well.</p><p>Acquiring Harden undoubtedly makes the Cavs more dangerous, but they shouldn't be assumed to win the East or placed into the same conversation as the Thunder or Nuggets so long as their new point guard continues to be a playoff no-show.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more basketball coverage.</em></p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34408832/related

NBA title odds post trade deadline: Should Cavs be East favorites?

Super Bowl week is here! It feels as though the conference championship games were a month ago, b...

<p>Super Bowl week is here! It feels as though the conference championship games were a month ago, but we're days away from crowning a champion.</p><p>Our three betting writers have been competing against each other throughout the playoffs to see who has the highest bankroll when the confetti falls at Levi's Stadium. Here's how things stand going into the big game after each starting the playoffs with $1,000.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Writer</th>
<th>Playoff record (W-L)</th>
<th>Bankroll</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Oshtry</td>
<td>15-15</td>
<td>$1266.19</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Patterson</td>
<td>12-19</td>
<td>$1249.50</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Deeg</td>
<td>13-17</td>
<td>$980.62</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>If you missed some of our Super Bowl betting content from last week, let us catch you up:</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><ul>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3464777" href="https://thescore.com/news/3464777">Odds history: Seahawks', Patriots' unlikely paths to the Super Bowl</a></li>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3466882" href="https://thescore.com/news/3466882">Super Bowl insights: Eager bettors heavily backing Seahawks</a></li>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3467095" href="https://thescore.com/news/3467095">Scrappy underdogs: Why favorites have struggled in recent Super Bowls</a></li>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3466836" href="https://thescore.com/news/3466836">Super Bowl simulation: How betting lines expect Seahawks-Patriots to unfold</a></li>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3468006" href="https://thescore.com/news/3468006">Super Bowl betting: Which popular trends are worth buying, selling?</a></li>
</ul><p>Let's get to our picks for Super Bowl MVP.</p><blockquote><p>👉 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2Fe50feef0-c519-4617-a04e-0400882c8aeb&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3470047"><strong>Check out all of the Super Bowl markets available on theScore Bet here</strong></a></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Seattle Seahawks (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-fGeEu" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/fGeEu/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/819118/cropped_GettyImages-2258183135.jpg?ts=1769399611" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/819118/w220xh124_GettyImages-2258183135.jpg?ts=1769399611 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/819118/w320xh180_GettyImages-2258183135.jpg?ts=1769399611 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/819118/w640xh360_GettyImages-2258183135.jpg?ts=1769399611 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/819118/w768xh432_GettyImages-2258183135.jpg?ts=1769399611 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/819118/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2258183135.jpg?ts=1769399611 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Steph Chambers / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><h3>🏈 Bet: <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=13f5e307-8d08-4dfb-ab8e-b9a9d6f4fa64&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=43&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=20&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2Fe50feef0-c519-4617-a04e-0400882c8aeb&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3470047">Darnold to win MVP (+115)</a>
</h3><blockquote><p><em>Patterson - Bet $100 to win $115</em></p></blockquote><p>I'll play the percentages and back the quarterback on the team that's favored to win.</p><p>The Seahawks are -225 on the moneyline (69.2% implied probability), and Darnold is +115 to win the MVP (46.5% implied probability). The odds imply there's roughly a 22% chance the Seahawks win and Darnold doesn't earn the honor, and that feels too high.</p><p>Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who is next on the oddsboard for the Seahawks, is unlikely to have an explosive game against Christian Gonzalez, one of the best shutdown corners in the league. Smith-Njigba has the skills to beat Gonzalez - I just don't see the Seattle wideout producing an MVP-worthy performance.</p><p>Kenneth Walker III is a real threat, though. Without Zach Charbonnet, Walker should get the majority of the goal-line work and could break off a couple of long runs to rack up yards. If he finishes with over 100 rushing yards and multiple touchdowns, he may become the first running back to win the award since Terrell Davis in 1998 ... but history tells me that's unlikely.</p><p>A bet on Darnold feels like betting the Seahawks at +115 on the moneyline, which is too much value to pass up.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Seattle Seahawks (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-9FA8o" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/9FA8o/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/818794/cropped_GettyImages-2254945878.jpg?ts=1769193016" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/818794/w220xh124_GettyImages-2254945878.jpg?ts=1769193016 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/818794/w320xh180_GettyImages-2254945878.jpg?ts=1769193016 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/818794/w640xh360_GettyImages-2254945878.jpg?ts=1769193016 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/818794/w768xh432_GettyImages-2254945878.jpg?ts=1769193016 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/818794/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2254945878.jpg?ts=1769193016 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Brooke Sutton / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><h3>🏈 Bet: <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=2cff9094-c6ba-46f7-9074-ee909793f568&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=41&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=1&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2Fe50feef0-c519-4617-a04e-0400882c8aeb&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3470047">Shaheed to win MVP (+4000)</a>
</h3><blockquote><p><em>Deeg - Bet $5 wins $200</em></p></blockquote><p>It's no secret that the winning quarterback will likely get the MVP, but a wide receiver has won this award eight times, the second-highest total of all positions. Smith-Njigba would be the best candidate here, but he's got a tough matchup against one of the league's best cornerbacks in Gonzalez.</p><p>For a long-shot pick, no player has a better chance to change the game than Shaheed. For starters, he's Seattle's kickoff and punt returner, allowing him to make big plays throughout the contest. Shaheed has been one of the best returners in the league since joining the Seahawks on Nov. 4, ranking second in yards per kickoff return (33.2) and third in yards per punt return (16.2) during that stretch. His three return touchdowns are the most in the NFL since early November, and he ran one back against the 49ers in the divisional round.</p><p>Shaheed is also Seattle's No. 3 wide receiver and has run the fourth-most routes on the team since being acquired. He's played 50% of the offensive snaps in the postseason, and he hauled in a 51-yard reception in the conference title game. Shaheed's 11.3 air yards per target ranks first on the Seahawks, and he'll likely see a couple of downfield shots Sunday. He's also utilized as a runner on jet sweeps, totaling eight carries over his last 11 games.</p><p>Look, it's +4000, and this is a big swing, but if there's any long shot in this game worth taking, it's Shaheed. The speedy playmaker has the opportunity to surprise the world and win this award.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="New England Patriots (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Oy7Kp" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Oy7Kp/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🏈 Bet: <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=3568ad2c-9c74-4e1b-b554-2e27a765267d&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=101&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=1&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2Fe50feef0-c519-4617-a04e-0400882c8aeb&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3470047">Gonzalez to win MVP (+10000)</a>
</h3><blockquote><p><em>Oshtry - Bet $25 to win $2500</em></p></blockquote><p>Let's have some fun with a long shot. This game is projected to be a low-scoring defensive battle featuring shaky quarterback play. I'm predicting the Patriots will win. However, Drake Maye has struggled throughout the playoffs against elite defenses, and the Seahawks certainly fit that profile.</p><p>If the Patriots win because of their defense, a defensive player will take home MVP, which hasn’t happened since Von Miller in Super Bowl 50. Lockdown corner Gonzalez is the Patriots' best defensive player. While he didn't record an interception during the regular season, he had one in the AFC Championship Game against Denver. Darnold has thrown the third-most picks all season. He's susceptible to mistakes that New England and Gonzalez can capitalize on. We need him to snag one interception while the Patriots shut down the Seahawks' passing offense for him to warrant consideration, which makes this bet worth a shot at this absurdly long price.</p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

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