Soon, there will be eight. Although this NCAA Tournament has already produced more games decided ...

<p>Soon, there will be eight. Although this NCAA Tournament has already produced more games decided by 20 or more points than any before it, we've also had our fair share of thrilling finishes, which should continue as intriguing quarterfinals matchups await. We've got you covered with a pick for all four Elite Eight contests (check back for Sunday's picks after the remaining matchups are finalized).</p><blockquote><p>🏀 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2F&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3508964"><strong>Who's headed to the Final Four? Bet on it with theScore Bet here</strong></a></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800134/Game_Picks-Red.jpg?ts=1757097330" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800134/Game_Picks-Red.jpg?ts=1757097330 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800134/Game_Picks-Red.jpg?ts=1757097330 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800134/Game_Picks-Red.jpg?ts=1757097330 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800134/Game_Picks-Red.jpg?ts=1757097330 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800134/Game_Picks-Red.jpg?ts=1757097330 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/?%24canonical_url=%2F&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3508964">Saturday's slate</a></h3><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-Y5mjd" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Y5mjd/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><h3>🏀 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=e022ad67-7878-4e16-b687-4d9933446af1&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=3508964">Pick: Arizona -6.5</a>
</h3><p>Arizona is an unstoppable force defying everything we know about modern basketball. The formula for most teams these days is to deploy shooters and fire a ton of threes. The Wildcats have gone in the other direction, recording the lowest 3-point rate among power conference teams. So, how do they own the fourth-best offense? By dominating inside and relentlessly crashing the offensive boards to create extra scoring chances. Not a single team in the country is equipped to deal with Arizona's size and rebounding prowess; Purdue certainly isn't.</p><p>As prolific as Purdue's offense is, the Boilermakers barely - and I mean barely - snuck past Texas and struggled versus Miami in the Round of 32. Arizona, meanwhile, has the sport's third-best defense and has won all three of its tournament games convincingly. Purdue doesn't have the athleticism to keep the Wildcats off the glass, which is key to staying in games against them. The Boilermakers' lucky run will end Saturday night, while Arizona's inevitable journey will continue on to the Final Four. <em>- Oshtry</em></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><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)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-W7QDe" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/W7QDe/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><h3>🏀 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=13e16bd7-33bf-4f5f-99d2-499d95a9f0ca&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=41&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=21&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab%2Fevent%2F8312c8a3-76c4-4fd2-9bff-b3ec6ed73643&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3508964">Pick: Illinois team total over 73.5 </a>
</h3><p>This line is discounted on account of Illinois' elite offense having an off night against Houston. The Fighting Illini shot just 43% but still scored 65 points and now get a better matchup versus Iowa.</p><p>The Hawkeyes rank 166th in opponent 3-point field-goal percentage, which is where the Illini thrive. They attempt the ninth-most shots from deep among all D-I programs, thanks in large part to sharpshooters Keaton Wagler and David Mirkovic. They also average 84.2 points and rank second in KenPom's offensive efficiency metric. But Illinois' biggest advantage is on the glass, where the team is ninth in offensive rebounding; Iowa is 355th. The Illini should have plenty of opportunities for second-chance points Saturday.</p><p>Everyone knows the Hawkeyes like to slow the game down, but that approach fits into the strengths of the Illini, who rank 325th in tempo. Illinois scored 75 points when these teams met in January, and I expect its offense to bounce back in the Elite Eight. <em>- Deeg</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/35030988/related

Elite Eight picks: Will Arizona, Illinois cruise to Final Four?

While Cinderella might be dead, true basketball fans rejoice when most of the top seeds advance t...

<p>While Cinderella might be dead, true basketball fans rejoice when most of the top seeds advance to the Sweet 16, setting up thrilling matchups for the NCAA Tournament's second weekend. After a successful opening weekend, Sam Oshtry and Brenden Deeg are back with their picks, favorite underdog, and survivor play for Thursday's four-game Sweet 16 slate.</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">Got an NCAA Tournament pick? Bet it with theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796821/Game_Picks-Blue.jpg?ts=1754581734" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796821/Game_Picks-Blue.jpg?ts=1754581734 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796821/Game_Picks-Blue.jpg?ts=1754581734 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796821/Game_Picks-Blue.jpg?ts=1754581734 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796821/Game_Picks-Blue.jpg?ts=1754581734 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796821/Game_Picks-Blue.jpg?ts=1754581734 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=55867b14-3c7b-420b-88a2-7969ef42a55f&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=3507595">No. 1 Arizona (-7.5) over No. 4 Arkansas</a>
</h3><p>The only guarantee in this matchup is a high-scoring affair between two of the top five offenses in the country. The total is a whopping 166.5. This might seem like a large spread for an offense as prolific and a team as talented as Arkansas, but Arizona is a matchup nightmare for the Razorbacks.</p><p>For starters, Arkansas' defense ranks outside the top 50, and it's weakest in the interior. Arkansas struggles against big teams that live in the paint - as Arizona does, with the lowest 3-point rate among power conference teams. The Wildcats play a similar style to Florida, which also relied on offensive rebounding to generate extra scoring chances. Florida defeated Arkansas by 34 in late February and grabbed 20 more rebounds. I'm not saying this will be a complete blowout, but Arkansas doesn't have the personnel to contend with Arizona's paint presence. <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=e6eec706-4ae3-4906-a623-36c4a9f41840&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=3507595">No. 4 Nebraska (-1.5) over No. 9 Iowa</a>
</h3><p>These Big Ten teams split their season series, with Iowa taking a 57-52 dogfight and Nebraska winning the most recent matchup 84-75 in overtime.</p><p>Bennett Stirtz struggled against Florida, and it's hard to imagine the Hawkeyes advancing if he doesn't bounce back. However, the Cornhuskers did a great job against Stirtz this season, holding him to 12-for-32 shooting from the field across the two meetings. A key stat from those games that I expect to stick Thursday: Nebraska forced a turnover on more than 20% of Iowa's offensive possessions. The Cornhuskers' defense ranks sixth in KenPom's efficiency metric and has previously caused all sorts of problems for the Hawkeyes' half-court offense.</p><p>Iowa's defense also finished 165th in opponent 3-point field-goal percentage and faces a Nebraska team that's been lights-out from deep in the tourney so far. All signs point to the Cornhuskers advancing to the Elite Eight and covering this small spread. <em>- Deeg</em></p><h3>🏀 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=58e378b4-b0c1-41c0-850a-92c8859b8520&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=43&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=23&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab%2Fevent%2F76aaf44b-1aa5-4fc6-85dc-bc8304f3fd83&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3507595">Texas team total over 70.5</a>
</h3><p>Instead of attacking the spread or the game total, let's focus on Texas' team total, which feels way too low. Purdue boasts one of the best offenses in the country, but its defense is mediocre at best. The program ranked 245th in opponent 2-point field-goal percentage and faces a Texas team that's eclipsed 71.5 points in 13 of its last 17 games.</p><p>The Longhorns' offense has run through Matas Vokietaitis in March, and it's been working. The 7-foot center is averaging 18 points a contest through three tournament games and should be able to dominate Purdue's shaky interior defense. With Dailyn Swain's athleticism and Tramon Mark's scoring ability alongside Vokietaitis, it'll be a challenge for the Boilermakers to keep Texas below 72 points. <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">See all the odds for Thurday's slate on theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827004/Underdogs-Blue.jpg?ts=1773841815" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827004/Underdogs-Blue.jpg?ts=1773841815 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827004/Underdogs-Blue.jpg?ts=1773841815 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827004/Underdogs-Blue.jpg?ts=1773841815 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827004/Underdogs-Blue.jpg?ts=1773841815 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827004/Underdogs-Blue.jpg?ts=1773841815 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><h3>🏀 <a href="https://espnbet.app.link/integrations?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=bed1665f-d108-422f-a517-1d1c06d83586&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=12&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=3507595">No. 3 Illinois (+140) over No. 2 Houston</a>
</h3><p>This is essentially a home game for Houston, but it's still a terrible matchup for the Cougars. Houston relies on its defense and offensive rebounding to create scoring opportunities. Teams that can't keep Houston off the offensive glass and tend to commit live-ball turnovers are in trouble. But Illinois isn't one of those teams, and its offense ranks second on KenPom.</p><p>The Fighting Illini play slowly and execute brilliantly in the half court. They boast multiple perimeter creators and rarely turn the ball over. Plus, they've got the size to keep Houston off the glass. It's hard to doubt a Kelvin Sampson-coached defense, but this is a younger Houston team than usual, and Illinois' offense is the most efficient and skilled unit it's faced all season. The Illini's offensive firepower will overwhelm the Cougars and prevent them from generating their typical offense. <em>- Oshtry</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827002/Survivor_Picks-blue.jpg?ts=1773841814" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827002/Survivor_Picks-blue.jpg?ts=1773841814 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827002/Survivor_Picks-blue.jpg?ts=1773841814 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827002/Survivor_Picks-blue.jpg?ts=1773841814 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827002/Survivor_Picks-blue.jpg?ts=1773841814 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827002/Survivor_Picks-blue.jpg?ts=1773841814 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><h3>Oshtry - Purdue</h3><p>Unfortunately, Deeg's Florida pick knocked him out of the survivor pool Sunday. But I'm still alive. Purdue is the obvious choice here if you haven't used it already. The Boilermakers are 7.5-point favorites against Texas and significantly more talented than the Longhorns. Anything can happen in survive-and-advance settings, but all the other games Thursday are toss-ups. Plus, this is the last time to use Purdue, which could potentially face Arizona in the Elite Eight.</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/35003451/related

Sweet 16 bets, survivor pick for Thursday's slate

After an exciting Thursday slate, Brenden Deeg and Sam Oshtry are hitting on each of Friday's fou...

<p>After an exciting Thursday slate, Brenden Deeg and Sam Oshtry are hitting on each of Friday's four games from a unique angle, including our favorite picks, underdogs, and survivor play to take us to the Elite Eight.</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=3508357">Got a pick for Friday's games? Bet on it with theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800134/Game_Picks-Red.jpg?ts=1757097330" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800134/Game_Picks-Red.jpg?ts=1757097330 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800134/Game_Picks-Red.jpg?ts=1757097330 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800134/Game_Picks-Red.jpg?ts=1757097330 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800134/Game_Picks-Red.jpg?ts=1757097330 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800134/Game_Picks-Red.jpg?ts=1757097330 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=8fcdca1a-89a3-4848-b30f-a3467af0e1e4&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=3508357">No. 3 Michigan State (+1.5) over No. 2 UConn</a>
</h3><p>These squads play contrasting defensive styles: Michigan State sells out to protect the rim, while UConn prioritizes the 3-point line. That favors the Spartans. They get downhill and crash the offensive glass for extra scoring opportunities, where they'll have a huge advantage over UConn. The size of St. John's overwhelmed UConn in two of their three matchups, and Michigan State's similar personnel should allow the team to execute the same game plan.</p><p>I don't trust the Huskies' guards as much as the Spartans' backcourt either. UConn's relied on its bigs so far in this tourney, but they won't be as dominant against Michigan State's frontcourt. Meanwhile, Jeremy Fears Jr., who's recorded 27 assists in two tournament games, is the best and most reliable floor general in this matchup. <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=7e82c2bf-407c-4285-b7d2-d74693778ff7&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=3508357">No. 6 Tennessee (+3.5) over No. 2 Iowa State</a>
</h3><p>Iowa State didn't need All-American Joshua Jefferson to destroy Kentucky last week, but this is a bad matchup for the Cyclones if he can't go. All signs suggest Jefferson will miss Friday night's game, and Tennessee is a different animal than Kentucky.</p><p>The Volunteers rank 14th in defensive efficiency according to KenPom and, more importantly, sit inside the top 20 in opponent 3-point field-goal percentage. They do a tremendous job of closing out on shooters, which will make it tough for Iowa State's half-court offense to rely on outside looks. Tennessee's biggest advantage in the game is on the glass: The Vols are first in offensive rebounding. Iowa State is a mediocre rebounding team with Jefferson in the lineup, and the Cyclones will struggle to contain second-chance opportunities without him.</p><p>This feels closer to a pick-'em type of game, and you get 3.5 points to work with on Tennessee's side. I'll ride with the Volunteers to keep this tight or win outright and book a trip to the Elite Eight. <em>- Deeg</em></p><h3>🏀 <a href="https://espnbet.app.link/integrations?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=ade5b24a-9f32-4cc8-8fb9-43337ffe6811&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=21&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=11&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab%2Fevent%2F09426d2a-852b-47e3-b9a6-232b9375bbd4&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3508357">No. 1 Michigan team total over 91.5</a>
</h3><p>This spread feels like a nightmare for bettors considering how hot Alabama can get on any given night. I think there's a scenario where Bama can keep this close, but the most likely outcome is Michigan lighting up the scoreboard.</p><p>The Crimson Tide finished the season 343rd in points allowed per contest and face a Wolverines team that ranked ninth in points per game. Alabama loves to play fast, and Michigan can match its pace, sitting in the top 60 in tempo this season. The Wolverines have gone over this total in both tournament games and now get one of the worst defenses in the country by basically any metric you can find. Don't overthink it: Roll with one of the country's best offenses to keep racking up points. <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=3508357">Click here to see all of the NCAA Tournament markets available on theScore Bet</a></strong></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826998/Underdogs-red.jpg?ts=1773841811" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826998/Underdogs-red.jpg?ts=1773841811 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826998/Underdogs-red.jpg?ts=1773841811 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826998/Underdogs-red.jpg?ts=1773841811 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826998/Underdogs-red.jpg?ts=1773841811 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826998/Underdogs-red.jpg?ts=1773841811 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><h3>🏀 <a href="https://espnbet.app.link/integrations?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=af48e7cb-2526-4ab9-bd0e-3adc8385603a&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=33&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=3508357">No. 5 St. John's (+230) over No. 1 Duke</a>
</h3><p>This is a tough matchup for a Duke team that relies on its interior presence. St. John's defensive strength is protecting the rim with Zuby Ejiofor and Dillon Mitchell on the frontline. Cameron Boozer and Duke's entire offense will have a tough time scoring inside. The Blue Devils could get hot from long range, but they're a 35% 3-point shooting team that's been inconsistent from deep this season.</p><p>This will be a low-scoring game featuring two of the nation's best defenses. While defenses have packed the paint and left St. John's open from three, the Red Storm have been willing to launch from deep. It's hard to imagine Duke pulling away here, and when it's close late, Rick Pitino has proven to be a much more trustworthy coach than Jon Scheyer.</p><p>It's also worth noting that Caleb Foster's status is uncertain. He hasn't played since March 7 with a foot injury, and Duke has looked mortal without him. Foster's eight points per game don't jump off the page, but he's crucial to everything Duke does on both ends. Whether he plays or not might be the difference. <em>- Oshtry</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827001/Survivor_Picks-red.jpg?ts=1773841808" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827001/Survivor_Picks-red.jpg?ts=1773841808 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827001/Survivor_Picks-red.jpg?ts=1773841808 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827001/Survivor_Picks-red.jpg?ts=1773841808 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827001/Survivor_Picks-red.jpg?ts=1773841808 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827001/Survivor_Picks-red.jpg?ts=1773841808 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><h3>Oshtry - Michigan</h3><p>Iowa State is the obvious pick Friday, but we burned the Cyclones in the Round of 32. Although rolling with the national title favorite this early is scary, we're in survive-and-advance mode. It's hard to imagine Michigan losing to Alabama. Plus, it might not be the worst thing to pick Michigan now if you think Arizona would beat the Wolverines in a potential Final Four showdown.</p><p>If you get through the Sweet 16 in your survivor pool, make sure to pay attention to the rules for the Elite Eight. Some contests require you to pick one team for the entire round, while others make you pick two teams from the four Elite Eight matchups.</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/35016817/related

Sweet 16 bets, survivor pick for Friday's slate

Shohei Ohtani and Aaron Judge have already cemented themselves as all-time greats, and each has t...

<p>Shohei Ohtani and Aaron Judge have already cemented themselves as all-time greats, and each has the opportunity to accomplish another historic feat this season. Ohtani is shooting for his fourth consecutive MVP trophy and fifth overall. Only Barry Bonds won four straight MVPs, doing so from 2001-04 with the San Francisco Giants. Ohtani's four total MVPs are second all time behind Bonds' seven.</p><p>Judge has won three MVPs, including the 2024 and 2025 awards, and has an opportunity to join Ohtani and Bonds as the only players with at least four. The Yankees captain is one of 11 players who's won the award three times.</p><p>While there have been worthy competitors the last couple of seasons, Ohtani's and Judge's dominance in their respective leagues has separated them from the field. As the MLB season begins this week, who has the best chance to dethrone them?</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbaseball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fmlb&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3506417">AL MVP odds</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Players</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Aaron Judge</td>
<td>+200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bobby Witt Jr.</td>
<td>+600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cal Raleigh</td>
<td>+1000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Julio Rodríguez</td>
<td>+1200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Vladimir Guerrero Jr.</td>
<td>+1400</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Gunnar Henderson</td>
<td>+1500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nick Kurtz</td>
<td>+1500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>José Ramírez</td>
<td>+1600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Roman Anthony</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p>⚾️ <strong><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbaseball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fmlb&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3506417">Think someone other than Ohtani or Judge will win MVP? Bet it with theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><p>Shortstops are enduring an MVP drought. The last shortstop to win the award in either league was Jimmy Rollins in 2007, but he could finally get a successor this season. Bobby Witt Jr. has the second-best odds to win the AL MVP. He finished in the top four in voting the last two seasons despite 2025 being a down year by his standards.</p><p>Cal Raleigh was the AL runner-up after blasting an MLB-leading 60 homers, seven more than Judge. However, in other metrics, he was way behind Judge, who led the American League in OPS, slugging percentage, and on-base percentage. As impressive as Raleigh was, it's unreasonable to expect another monstrous year from him after he slugged 26 more homers than he had in any other campaign.</p><p>Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is consistently in the MVP mix and capable of dethroning Judge. He ranked in the AL's top 10 in hits, batting average, and on-base percentage. Although Judge is on a different level than the rest of the American League, it's so rare for anyone to win three straight MVPs that it might be worth looking elsewhere.</p><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbaseball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fmlb&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3506417">NL 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>Shohei Ohtani</td>
<td>-130</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Juan Soto</td>
<td>+750</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ronald Acuña Jr.</td>
<td> +1100</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Fernando Tatis Jr.</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bryce Harper</td>
<td>+2200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Corbin Carroll</td>
<td>+2200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Elly De La Cruz</td>
<td>+2200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Francisco Lindor</td>
<td>+2200</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p>⚾️ <strong><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbaseball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fmlb&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3506417">Bet on the MVP race and other MLB futures with theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><p>During spring training, Juan Soto <a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/juan-soto-wants-to-beat-shohei-ohtani-for-2026-mvp">said</a> of Ohtani's MVP dominance: "He better keep doing what he's doing, because I'm coming."</p><p>Soto has finished in the top 10 in MVP voting six times. He's knocking on the door of an MVP campaign. The only problem is that his rival is perhaps the greatest talent in baseball history.</p><p>It's practically unheard of for a player to enter a season with minus odds to win the MVP. Even last year, Ohtani opened the season as a +175 favorite. But Ohtani's two-way prowess simply makes this award unfair for other contenders.</p><p>Ohtani tops the league in nearly every batting statistic - counting stats like hits and runs as well as measures like OPS and slugging percentage. Still, Soto and other challengers would have a chance to dethrone Ohtani if they were only contending with his exceptional hitting. The Mets star did post the National League's best on-base percentage last season.</p><p>But Ohtani is also an elite pitcher, which makes him one of the most unique players of all time and inspires MVP voters to continue to reward him.</p><p>Even if Soto's hitting numbers end up being comparable to Ohtani's, voters will cite Ohtani's pitching as a reason the Dodgers superstar is more valuable. It'll be hard for Soto to build a case unless he posts historic numbers across the board. Ohtani will likely be NL MVP for a fourth straight time in 2026, and Soto might ultimately go down as one of the all-time greats who never took home the award.</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/34992405/related

MLB MVP race: Can anyone dethrone Ohtani or Judge?

Any questions regarding Cinderella's vitality have been answered after most favorites prevailed d...

<p>Any questions regarding Cinderella's vitality have been answered after most favorites prevailed during the opening weekend of the NCAA Tournament. The Sweet 16 features only high-major programs for the second straight season - and these are the only two years that's happened in March Madness history.</p><p>Favorites went a perfect 16-0 straight up during Friday's Round of 64 slate and 39-9 overall across the first two rounds. While the unpredictability and underdog runs of March Madness might be behind us, the opening rounds still involved plenty of chaos. From Kentucky's remarkable first-round win to Vanderbilt's near-half-court heave to St. John's buzzer-beater to Florida's early exit, the tournament hasn't been short on excitement.</p><p>The games are better when the best teams advance to the later stages of the tournament, creating thrilling second-weekend matchups. In this case, they've also shifted the national title odds.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>National title odds</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>+300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Arizona</td>
<td>+325</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Duke</td>
<td>+370</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Houston</td>
<td>+675</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Illinois</td>
<td>+1400</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Purdue</td>
<td>+1400</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Iowa State</td>
<td>+1600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UConn</td>
<td>+2500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>St. John's</td>
<td>+2500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michigan State</td>
<td>+2800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Arkansas</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nebraska</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tennessee</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Alabama</td>
<td>+7500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Iowa</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Texas</td>
<td>+20000</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=3506240">Who do you think will win the national championship? Bet on it with theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><p>Michigan entered the tournament with the second-best odds but became the favorite over the weekend after dominant wins against Howard and Saint Louis. Duke's odds went in the opposite direction. The Blue Devils went from favorites to owning the third-best odds after becoming the first 1-seed to trail a 16-seed by double digits at halftime and only leading TCU by four at the break in the Round of 32.</p><p>Duke also faces the most difficult path remaining among 1-seeds with a Sweet 16 showdown against St. John's (Duke is favored by 6.5) and a potential Elite Eight matchup against either UConn or Michigan State.</p><p>Arizona leaped over Duke on the oddsboard and now has the second-best odds following double-digit wins over LIU and Utah State. Michigan is a 9.5-point favorite over Alabama in the Sweet 16, while Arizona is an 8.5-point favorite over Arkansas.</p><p>Florida, which entered the tournament with the fourth-best odds, became the first 1-seed to lose. Iowa upset the Gators, who'd received the fourth-most national title bets on <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=3506240">theScore Bet</a> entering the tournament. They're the only team with top-10 pre-tournament odds that lost during opening weekend. Florida's loss significantly shrunk Houston's odds from +1200 before the tournament to +675, as the Cougars were in the same region as the Gators.</p><p>Oddsmakers see a huge gap between Michigan, Arizona, Duke, and Houston and the rest of the field in terms of championship chances. Illinois, Purdue, and Iowa State are the next tier of likely champions.</p><p>As for the long shots, Texas and Iowa are the two biggest surprises. Texas, which played in the First Four, has halved its odds from +40000 before the madness to +20000. Iowa's odds shortened from +25000 to +10000.</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=3506240">Think a long shot can with it all? Bet on it with theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><p>Although we won't get a Final Four featuring only 1-seeds for a second straight year, chalk has still conquered the tournament. One of the current favorites should cut down the nets in April, but there will be plenty of movement before that happens.</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/34982278/related

March Madness betting: Chalk prevails, Michigan becomes favorite

Sunday's incredible slate of games will conclude the first weekend of the NCAA Tournament. While ...

<p>Sunday's incredible slate of games will conclude the first weekend of the NCAA Tournament. While favorites dominated Friday and Cinderellas may officially be dead, those results build exciting matchups in the Round of 32 and onward.</p><p>Sam Oshtry and Brenden Deeg are back with their favorite daily picks, best underdog moneyline play, and a survivor pick. 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=3504761">Bet on the NCAA tournament with theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800134/Game_Picks-Red.jpg?ts=1757097330" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800134/Game_Picks-Red.jpg?ts=1757097330 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800134/Game_Picks-Red.jpg?ts=1757097330 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800134/Game_Picks-Red.jpg?ts=1757097330 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800134/Game_Picks-Red.jpg?ts=1757097330 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800134/Game_Picks-Red.jpg?ts=1757097330 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=37a69ad6-3275-4f8d-83b9-181803832f0e&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=3504761">No. 4 Kansas (+3.5) over No. 5 St. John's</a>
</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/524" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/524">Kansas</a> entered the tournament as one of the hardest teams to handicap, but I think we'll continue to get the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/172193" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/172193">Darryn Peterson</a> we saw in the first half against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/184" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/184">Cal Baptist</a>. With the potential No. 1 pick playing at that level, the Jayhawks are one of the best teams in the country.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Kansas is a bad matchup for a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1011" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1011">St. John's</a> squad that needs to win at the rim to succeed as the tournament progresses. The Jayhawks rank fourth in the nation in opponent 2-point field-goal percentage allowed, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/103049" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/103049">Zuby Ejiofor</a> will have a tough time in the paint against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/121820" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/121820">Flory Bidunga</a>, whose presence will throw a wrench into Rick Pitino's game plan.</p><p>You can make the argument that the wrong team is favored in this matchup. I like the Jayhawks to keep this close or win outright. <em>- Deeg</em></p><h3>🏀 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=9e1216ea-e3de-47e4-9b21-898ddbd8c5e6&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=9&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=3504761">No. 1 Florida team total over 77.5</a>
</h3><p>I think the sportsbooks are giving <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/500" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/500">Iowa</a>'s defense too much credit with this total. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/380" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/380">Florida</a> has eclipsed this number in 10 of its last 13 contests, and it just dropped 114 points in its opening-round matchup versus <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/861" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/861">Prairie View A&amp;M</a>. Most of the Gators' starters sat in the second half, so they should be well-rested for Sunday night.</p><p>Despite the Hawkeyes having one of the best defenses in the country in terms of opponent points per game, they rank 113th in defensive rating. The Gators, meanwhile, have a top-10 scoring offense, and they're 24th in tempo, so Iowa will be forced to play at their speed. There's also a massive rebounding gap between the two, as Florida is the nation's best team at snagging boards, while Iowa ranks 353rd. I expect the Gators to light up the scoreboard in the second round. <em>- Deeg</em></p><h3>🏀 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=6e6c816b-5784-42c7-8cc3-29854b6a7af9&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=9&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=3504761">No. 1 Arizona (-9.5) over No. 9 Utah State</a>
</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1133" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1133">Utah State</a> had no business advancing past the first round. It made just two threes and shot 13% from deep, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1145" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1145">Villanova</a> made 14 triples and shot 47% from downtown. Teams rarely win with that type of shooting disparity, but the Aggies outrebounded the Wildcats by 10, and the latter shot 46% from the free-throw line. That won't happen against a dominant <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/69" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/69">Arizona</a> squad, which won its opening-round contest over <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/581" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/581">Long Island</a> by 34 and hasn't lost a game in well over a month.</p><p>Arizona should overpower Utah State in the paint and on the glass. The Wildcats, who own the fourth-best offensive rebounding rate in the country, consistently generate extra scoring chances by controlling the glass. That explains how they have the fifth-most efficient offense despite their suspect 3-point shooting. The Aggies won't be able to keep up offensively and don't have the personnel to stop the Wildcats on the boards. <em>- Oshtry</em></p><h3>🏀 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=73955ca0-3765-4234-9301-fee461032db9&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=9&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=3504761">No. 3 Virginia (+1.5) over No. 6 Tennessee</a>
</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1063" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1063">Tennessee</a> handily defeated <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/658" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/658">Miami (Ohio)</a> in the opening round. Although many fans became enamored with Miami's journey to the tournament, when the RedHawks met the Volunteers, it was a matchup of men versus boys.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1146" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1146">Virginia</a> presents a different test for the Vols, who lost four of their final six regular-season games. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/172016" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/172016">Nate Ament</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/102898" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/102898">Ja'Kobi Gillespie </a>are Tennessee's two best players, but they rarely play well together. Gillespie scored 29 points in the tourney opener, while Ament registered zero. The Vols will need both to score consistently against the Cavaliers' elite defense. That seems unlikely given the team's recent performances. Tennessee's size and physicality can carry the group far in the tournament, but Virginia is equipped to match its toughness in what should be a physical, low-scoring affair. The wrong team is favored here. <em>- Oshtry</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=3504761">Bet on the NCAA tournament with theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826998/Underdogs-red.jpg?ts=1773841811" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826998/Underdogs-red.jpg?ts=1773841811 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826998/Underdogs-red.jpg?ts=1773841811 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826998/Underdogs-red.jpg?ts=1773841811 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826998/Underdogs-red.jpg?ts=1773841811 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826998/Underdogs-red.jpg?ts=1773841811 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=5f4951ce-c20b-4d96-8f4b-8a8e263862f9&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=27&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=3504761">No. 7 UCLA (+170) over No. 2 UConn</a>
</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1114" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1114">UCLA</a> -5.5 in the opening round was one of the worst beats you'll see for a while. Well, I'm picking them outright to take down Dan Hurley's team, which is playing its worst basketball of the season.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/280" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/280">UConn</a> struggled against 15-seed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/403" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/403">Furman</a> on Friday and will soon face a much better opponent in UCLA. The Bruins will likely back get their leading scorer, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/102949" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/102949">Tyler Bilodeau</a>, on Sunday after the senior missed the team's win over <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1113" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1113">UCF</a>. His return makes them even more dangerous offensively.</p><p>The Huskies have gone ice-cold from deep in recent weeks, while the Bruins boast an offense that ranks 20th in 3-point percentage. There's also a significant gap between them at the charity stripe, as UConn is 217th in free-throw percentage, and UCLA is 36th. With this game projected to be close, how each team fares at the line could determine the outcome. <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=3504761">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/827001/Survivor_Picks-red.jpg?ts=1773841808" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827001/Survivor_Picks-red.jpg?ts=1773841808 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827001/Survivor_Picks-red.jpg?ts=1773841808 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827001/Survivor_Picks-red.jpg?ts=1773841808 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827001/Survivor_Picks-red.jpg?ts=1773841808 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827001/Survivor_Picks-red.jpg?ts=1773841808 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><h3>Deeg: Florida</h3><p>We've reached the point of the pool when you have to start thinking about using No. 1 seeds. With <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1141" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1141">Vanderbilt</a> possibly meeting Florida in the Sweet 16, it may be smart to take the Gators now, considering the Commodores rolled them in the SEC Tournament a week ago. (Update: Nebraska had something to say about that.)</p><p>Florida's physical squad presents an unfavorable matchup for Iowa. The Gators are a double-digit favorite, and it would be a massive upset if they don't deliver a victory. I expect a comfortable win for Todd Golden's squad.</p><h3>Oshtry: Iowa State</h3><p>There aren't many viable survivor options Sunday. It's important to save the 1-seeds - and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/872" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/872">Purdue</a> - for later rounds, or else you'll have no viable options if you make it to the Elite Eight. I don't trust <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/501" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/501">Iowa State</a> to advance much further than the Sweet 16. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/103709" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/103709">Joshua Jefferson</a>'s status worries me, but the Cyclones are a 5.5-point favorite, and they have the experienced veterans and great coaching to escape <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/531" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/531">Kentucky</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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March Madness Round of 32: Best bets, survivor picks for Sunday

By the end of Friday night, we'll have gotten through all 32 games in the Round of 64. Then it'll...

<p>By the end of Friday night, we'll have gotten through all 32 games in the Round of 64. Then it'll be time to take a shower, grab a bite, check in with your family, and get back to the couch for the Round of 32 this weekend. Let's get to our picks, underdogs, and survivor plays for Saturday.</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=3504054">Bet on the NCAA tournament with theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796821/Game_Picks-Blue.jpg?ts=1754581734" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796821/Game_Picks-Blue.jpg?ts=1754581734 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796821/Game_Picks-Blue.jpg?ts=1754581734 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796821/Game_Picks-Blue.jpg?ts=1754581734 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796821/Game_Picks-Blue.jpg?ts=1754581734 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796821/Game_Picks-Blue.jpg?ts=1754581734 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=f1d98cca-ea58-4875-bd1c-282f61b8a503&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=3504054">No. 3 Michigan State (-3.5) over No. 6 Louisville</a>
</h3><p>Louisville escaped South Florida in the opener, but Michigan State is a different beast. The Spartans' top-15 defense will prevent Louisville from getting hot from deep. The Cardinals attempt the nation's fourth-most threes. I can't trust a team that relies so heavily on 3-pointers and rarely scores at the rim, especially against a physically imposing defense. Not to mention Mikel Brown Jr., Louisville's best player, sat in the opener and hasn't played since the end of February. Meanwhile, Michigan State has won six of its last eight games. Jeremy Fears Jr. has a case as the best floor general in the sport. He won't let the Spartans slip up in the Round of 32. <em>- Sam Oshtry</em></p><h3>🏀 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=070068b4-35bb-4dfe-a708-48571cdd7470&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=3504054">No. 5 Vanderbilt (-1.5) over No. 4 Nebraska</a>
</h3><p>This is a nice buy-low spot for the Commodores after McNeese State gave them a scare in the first round. Vanderbilt ended the season by making a run to the SEC Tournament final and boasts one of the best guards in the country in Tyler Tanner. The sophomore star ranked fifth in the country in steals this season and should give the Cornhuskers fits on the perimeter.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Nebraska is a much better matchup for Vanderbilt than the physical Cowboys, and the Cornhuskers are coming off the emotional high of the program's first-ever March Madness victory. It's unlikely the Huskers will repeat Thursday's shooting performance against a Vanderbilt team that's 31st in KenPom's defensive rating, and the Commodores are 5-1 against the spread in their last six games. Give me Vanderbilt to book a ticket to the Sweet 16 and cover this small spread. <em>- Brenden Deeg</em></p><h3>🏀 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=3e5ca1c1-f832-43ad-ab47-41d802b53015&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=3504054">No. 11 Texas (+6.5) over No. 3 Gonzaga</a>
</h3><p>I'll jump on the Texas bandwagon for the second round. The Longhorns are coming off an impressive win over AJ Dybantsa and BYU, and I love them to keep it rolling in this matchup.</p><p>Gonzaga ranks 298th in 3-point attempts per game, and Texas' defensive weakness is getting lit up from deep, so the Bulldogs aren't exactly poised to take advantage. The Longhorns' 7-foot center, Matas Vokietaitis, is coming off a 26-point, 16-rebound performance, and he could cause problems for a Zags defense that can't match his size. Gonzaga didn't look good in the opening round and will once again likely be without one of its best players in Braden Huff. The Longhorns should be able to keep this one close or pull off the upset. <em>- Deeg</em></p><h3>🏀 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=4265997a-e9f6-4b55-b2c5-160d8ee80109&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=3504054">No. 9 Saint Louis (+12.5) over No. 1 Michigan</a>
</h3><p>Michigan's size might be too much for Saint Louis to overcome, but this spread is too high for a Saint Louis offense that can keep pace with any team in the country. The Wolverines struggled against 16-seed Howard, their Round of 64 opponent, leading by just four points at halftime before pulling away in the second half.</p><p>That continues a troubling trend for Michigan, which has looked beatable over the last few weeks and lost some depth when L.J. Cason suffered a season-ending injury. Michigan star Yaxel Lendeborg is dealing with a lingering injury and only attempted five shots in the tournament opener. Meanwhile, Saint Louis decimated Georgia by 25 in the opening round. <em>- Oshtry</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=3504054">Bet on the NCAA tournament with theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827004/Underdogs-Blue.jpg?ts=1773841815" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827004/Underdogs-Blue.jpg?ts=1773841815 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827004/Underdogs-Blue.jpg?ts=1773841815 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827004/Underdogs-Blue.jpg?ts=1773841815 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827004/Underdogs-Blue.jpg?ts=1773841815 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827004/Underdogs-Blue.jpg?ts=1773841815 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=6c539448-19f1-4e89-91c1-8f698a52e70a&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=3504054">No. 9 TCU (+500) over No. 1 Duke</a>
</h3><p>Duke became the first 1-seed to trail a 16-seed by double digits at halftime. While that was concerning, it might have just been early tournament nerves for a team that relies on a few freshmen. Picking TCU to upset Duke has less to do with the Blue Devils choking and more to do with TCU being wildly underrated. The Horned Frogs' balanced scoring attack, led by playmaking big David Punch, complements their physical, tenacious defense. They attack the offensive glass, rarely turn it over, and get to the free-throw line: a winning formula to control the possession battle and pull off an upset.</p><p>Siena laid the blueprint for limiting Duke and freshman Cameron Boozer - despite scoring 22 points, he looked uncomfortable and was inefficient. Siena's ball pressure and physicality bothered Duke, and TCU is equipped to replicate it. Two of Duke's top four leading scorers - Caleb Foster and Patrick Ngongba - missed the tourney opener and are likely out again. The Blue Devils' depth might not be strong enough to overcome an intimidating TCU group. <em>- Oshtry</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=3504054">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/827002/Survivor_Picks-blue.jpg?ts=1773841814" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827002/Survivor_Picks-blue.jpg?ts=1773841814 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827002/Survivor_Picks-blue.jpg?ts=1773841814 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827002/Survivor_Picks-blue.jpg?ts=1773841814 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827002/Survivor_Picks-blue.jpg?ts=1773841814 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/827002/Survivor_Picks-blue.jpg?ts=1773841814 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><h3>Oshtry - Michigan State</h3><p>We made it past the opening round. Now, let's get to the Sweet 16 safely. For all the reasons previously laid out, Michigan State should easily defeat Louisville. But why use a Spartans team that I'm so high on in the Round of 32? Because they're in a difficult region, and I wouldn't touch them the rest of the way. They'll likely play UConn in the Sweet 16 and then Duke, Kansas, or St. John's in the Elite Eight. Michigan State will be an underdog in most of those scenarios, so let's use it now.</p><h3>Deeg - Illinois </h3><p>This is a great spot to pick a 3-seed before using some of the top teams in the tournament. Illinois rolled in its first game against Penn and boasts one of the most lethal offenses in the country. The Fighting Illini rank first in KenPom's offensive rating metric, and VCU doesn't have the defensive talent to match up. While the Rams are a solid squad, the Fighting Illini are double-digit favorites and should take care of business Saturday night.</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 of 32: Best bets, survivor picks for Saturday

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 the NCAA tourney with 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=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><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><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><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><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=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><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 the NCAA tourney with 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=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><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><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 the NCAA tourney with 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 the NCAA tourney with 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 the NCAA tourney 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 the NCAA tourney 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 the NCAA tournament with 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>

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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 the NCAA tournament with 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>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34705707/related

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>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34696296/related

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>

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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

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Sam Oshtry

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Brenden Deeg

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