The playoffs are filled with pressure-packed moments. It's where legacies are solidified, reputat...

<p>The playoffs are filled with pressure-packed moments. It's where legacies are solidified, reputations are tarnished, and jobs are on the line. Here are the 10 people across the NBA under the most pressure entering the postseason, ranked in ascending order.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="PRESSURE COOKER: GORDON" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-VNL2Q" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/VNL2Q/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" 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>The pressure isn't on Gordon; it's on his hamstrings. Although he isn't Denver's best player, his health may decide the team's fate. The 30-year-old missed over half the season with a lingering hamstring injury, the same issue that limited him in Game 7 of the Nuggets' second-round loss to the Thunder last year. Denver scores 10 more points per 100 possessions when Gordon is on the floor, and its 21st-ranked defense jumps to fifth.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="PRESSURE COOKER: FOX" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-9Lc0v" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/9Lc0v/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" 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>A player making a top-40 salary is expected to perform like one in the playoffs. Fox is averaging the fewest points and minutes of his career, though that's more about his role than a sign of regression. He's taken a back seat to the Spurs' young talent, but San Antonio will rely on the former Clutch Player of the Year for late-game offensive creation. Fox is the only one of the Spurs' top seven scorers with playoff experience.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="PRESSURE COOKER: BROWN" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-q8QMv" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/q8QMv/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" 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>The only substantial change from last year's Knicks team is on the sideline, where Brown replaced Tom Thibodeau, who led New York to its first conference finals since 2000. One of the criticisms surrounding Thibs was his reluctance to adjust the starting lineup, even as it posted a minus-6.2 net rating in the playoffs. Brown has also refused to tinker with the lineup despite its regular-season net rating being worse than last year's.</p><p>New York possesses the talent and tools to win the East, which is why it brought in a new voice. Thibodeau's group defeated the Celtics in the second round last season; Brown will be expected to do the same. Brown's seat won't be warm after his first campaign, but the spotlight will shift in his direction if the Knicks fall short of the conference finals.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="PRESSURE COOKER: DURANT" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-m8vXT" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/m8vXT/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" 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>Durant has won just two playoff series since leaving Golden State in 2019. While he's dealt with difficult team circumstances in Brooklyn and Phoenix, he's often created the drama and disconnect that tends to follow him. Houston's top scorer may not be the reason for a playoff exit, especially with the team not having a true point guard, but he was brought in to fix the Rockets' clutch offense. Instead, it has slipped from 18th to 20th. Each early exit is another missed opportunity to strengthen his legacy.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="PRESSURE COOKER: ALTMAN" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-yZawP" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/yZawP/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" 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>Considering the Cavaliers have the NBA's largest payroll, a fourth straight season for this group without a conference finals appearance won't cut it. Altman, the team's president of basketball operations, likely wouldn't be ousted, but he would face pressure to institute major changes.</p><p>Donovan Mitchell isn't primarily to blame for Cleveland's playoff shortcomings. After this year's midseason backcourt shake-up, a frontcourt trade involving Jarrett Allen or Evan Mobley (likely the former) could be next, particularly if the Cavs are once again physically outmatched, as they have been in previous postseasons.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="PRESSURE COOKER: CADE" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-hZDji" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/hZDji/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" 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>Cunningham has reached a new tier after leading the Pistons to 60 wins and the East's top seed. Now, he faces enormous responsibility. Cunningham's playoff debut against the Knicks last year was uneven. Although he averaged 25 points in the six-game series, he shot 42% from the field and 18% from three. While that performance can largely be attributed to a lack of experience, the 24-year-old will be expected to deliver this time around. The East is wide open, and Cunningham is relied upon for offensive creation more than any other star in the conference.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="PRESSURE COOKER: UDOKA" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Pipmf" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Pipmf/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" 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>Udoka has yet to win a playoff series through his first two seasons in Houston. He's built a tough identity grounded in defense and rebounding. However, he's not an offensive wizard, as evidenced by the Rockets' dysfunctional late-game offense.</p><p>Udoka's management of Reed Sheppard is particularly puzzling; he often benches the Kentucky product, one of the team's best shooters, in clutch situations. He also played the 37-year-old Durant the fourth-most minutes in the league. With the Rockets being a heavy favorite against the depleted Lakers, anything short of a first-round win could result in organizational changes.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="PRESSURE COOKER: BANCHERO" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-9EeLE" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/9EeLE/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" 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>The Magic took the crown for the most disappointing season. While injuries contributed to their demise, the Banchero-Franz Wagner pairing simply hasn't worked. Assuming there's an early exit ahead, the duo will have failed to win a playoff series in four seasons together, making an offseason split possible. Who's worth keeping is debatable, but the numbers are telling: For the second straight season, Orlando has a negative net rating with Banchero on the court and a positive one when he sits.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="PRESSURE COOKER: HARDEN" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-aqZFm" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/aqZFm/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" 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>What was the Cavaliers' solution to their backcourt problems? Trading Darius Garland for Harden, the most notorious playoff no-show of his era. Harden represents an upgrade and is no longer the centerpiece he was in Houston, but he's played alongside other superstars in Philadelphia and Los Angeles. Here's what happened in those situations.</p><ul>
<li>
<strong>2025:</strong> Scored 11 and seven points, respectively, in Games 5 and 7 of the first round for the Clippers, with fewer than 10 shots each game.</li>
<li>
<strong>2024:</strong> Tallied 23 total points in the final two games of L.A.'s first-round series while shooting 25% from the field</li>
<li>
<strong>2023:</strong> With Philly up 3-2 over Boston in the East semis, Harden scored a combined 22 points in Games 6 and 7 on 26% shooting</li>
<li>
<strong>2022:</strong> Put up 14 points in Game 5 and 11 in an elimination Game 6 for the 76ers in the East semis</li>
</ul><p>Harden's a former MVP and one of the greatest scorers ever, but his legacy is haunted by dreadful playoff performances. This postseason offers another chance at redemption with a clear path to his first conference finals since 2018.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="PRESSURE COOKER: KAT" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-mJCt0" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/mJCt0/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" 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>When Knicks owner James Dolan declared, "Getting to the Finals, we absolutely have to do," in January, it signaled that major personnel changes are likely imminent if that benchmark isn't reached, especially with Giannis Antetokounmpo potentially being available this summer.</p><p>Towns usually receives the brunt of the criticism when New York unravels. Fair or not, he's polarizing, and his playoff volatility fuels it. The six-time All-Star played well as a scorer last postseason, but questionable defense, boneheaded turnovers, inexplicable fouls, and passivity in key moments have marred his decade-plus run in the NBA.</p><p>This postseason is a proving ground for Towns to showcase his consistency and maturity. The Knicks' championship hopes, and his future in New York, depend on it.</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>

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Playoff pressure index: 10 NBA figures with most to prove

With the NBA playoffs tipping off Saturday, let's preview the action by looking at the four true ...

<p>With the NBA playoffs tipping off Saturday, let's preview the action by looking at the four true contenders in each conference. Below, we outlined how each can win the NBA Finals and what will prevent them from lifting the Larry O'Brien Trophy.</p><p>Jump to: <a href="#Western">Western Conference</a></p><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3499308">Eastern Conference contenders odds</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>To win east odds</th>
<th>to win Finals odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Celtics</td>
<td>+155</td>
<td>+525</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cavs</td>
<td>+325</td>
<td>+1200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Pistons</td>
<td>+450</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Knicks</td>
<td> +475</td>
<td>+2000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p><strong>🏀 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3499308">Bet on the NBA playoffs with theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Pistons PR" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-2snc3" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/2snc3/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="90" 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><strong>How they'll win:</strong></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>Defense. </strong>The Thunder laid the blueprint, capturing the title last season with their league-best defense despite shooting 33.8% from three. Meanwhile, the Pistons rank 17th in three-point percentage at 35% this campaign, but they own the NBA's second-best defense. Any deep Detroit run will rely on unrelenting defense, unmatched toughness, and Cade Cunningham's heroics.</p><p><strong>Why they won't:</strong></p><p><strong>Shooting woes. </strong>The Pistons deploy two non-shooters in almost every lineup, notably Jalen Duren and Ausar Thompson. Opponents capitalize by barely guarding non-shooting wings on the perimeter, which hurts Detroit's spacing and allows defenses to load up on Cunningham's drives, forcing contested shots.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Celtics PR" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-FvhlE" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/FvhlE/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="90" 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><strong>How they'll win:</strong></p><p><strong>Best duo.</strong> The Celtics boast a top-four offense and defense and will have a coaching advantage in every series. However, their biggest strength lies in the league's best duo: Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum. Brown has played at an MVP level all season and remained the top option even after Tatum returned from injury in March. When the two stars are locked in, Boston is nearly unstoppable.</p><p><strong>Why they won't:</strong></p><p><strong>Settling. </strong>Despite Boston's surprising success in 2025-26, this version of the team still falls short of last year's squad that blew two 20-point leads to the Knicks in the postseason. The Celtics are prone to hunting mismatches and settling for contested jumpers instead of getting downhill late in playoff games. If that trend continues, they risk another early exit.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Knicks PR" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-S09vv" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/S09vv/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="90" 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><strong>How they'll win:</strong></p><p><strong>Clutch offense.</strong> Every champion needs a reliable late-game creator and shotmaker, and Jalen Brunson has been as good as anyone in that role over the last three seasons. Thanks to Brunson, the Knicks own the league's best fourth-quarter net rating and third-best clutch net rating.</p><p><strong>Why they won't:</strong></p><p><strong>Starting lineup issues.</strong> The Knicks' lineup of Brunson, Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, Josh Hart, and Karl-Anthony Towns struggled last playoffs, posting a minus-6.2 net rating. Their performance together this regular season was even worse. Opposing defenses have neutralized the Brunson-Towns pick-and-roll by sticking an athletic wing on Towns and switching the action while daring Hart to shoot. Like his predecessor, Mike Brown has been reluctant to make a change.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Cavaliers PR" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-hY1PC" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/hY1PC/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="90" 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><strong>How they'll win:</strong></p><p><strong>The big four clicks.</strong> In 92 minutes together, James Harden, Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen are outscoring opponents by 26.7 points per 100 possessions and posting a 119.5 offensive rating, which would rank third-best in the NBA. Harden typically combusts in the playoffs, but he clearly elevates the frontcourt and complements Mitchell, who consistently delivers in the postseason.</p><p><strong>Why they won't: </strong></p><p><strong>Defense. </strong>Cleveland's defense, ranked 15th in the league, remains a liability on the perimeter. Additionally, the Cavs struggle to stop opposing guards from penetrating the paint every postseason, while their frontcourt gets routinely bullied by bigs.</p><h3><a id="Western" href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3499308" name="Western">Western Conference contenders odds</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Odds to win West</th>
<th>Odds to win Finals</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Thunder</td>
<td>-150</td>
<td>+115</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Spurs</td>
<td>+290</td>
<td>+480</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nuggets</td>
<td>+600</td>
<td>+900</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rockets</td>
<td>+2000</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p><strong>🏀 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3499308">Bet on the NBA playoffs with theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Thunder PR" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-xYfW6" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/xYfW6/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="90" 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><strong>How they'll win: </strong></p><p><strong>Defense. </strong></p><p>The Thunder's league-best defense powered last year's title run, especially as the offense and shooting crumbled in certain playoff moments. Oklahoma City's defensive rating is virtually identical to last season's, and the unit will again serve as the foundation of any repeat bid.</p><p><strong>Why they won't: </strong></p><p><strong>Secondary scoring.</strong> Jalen Williams played only 33 games this season and never consistently found his rhythm, while Chet Holmgren's inconsistent offensive production was frustrating at times. The Thunder shot 33% from three during last year's playoff run, the fourth-worst mark among playoff teams. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander needs dependable scoring support from his teammates.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Spurs PR" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-CWdlW" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/CWdlW/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="90" 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><strong>How they'll win:</strong></p><p><strong>Meeting the moment.</strong> San Antonio has the profile of a champion: They're the only team to rank top three in offense and defense, boast a top-five player in Victor Wembanyama, and have built a perfectly constructed roster around him. The Spurs also beat the defending champion Thunder in four of five regular-season matchups this campaign. Still, can a fast-paced team handle the physicality and intensity of a two-month postseason, when more possessions are played in the half-court?</p><p><strong>Why they won't:</strong></p><p><strong>Lack of experience. </strong>No team in modern NBA history has won a title with this little playoff experience, with six of the Spurs' top seven scorers having never appeared in a postseason game. Although Wembanyama and his supporting cast are ahead of schedule, they need playoff reps before climbing the mountaintop.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Nuggets PR" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-WqHpB" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/WqHpB/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="90" 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><strong>How they'll win:</strong></p><p><strong>Nikola Jokic.</strong> Few players in NBA history possess the ability to single-handedly carry a team to a title, but Jokic is certainly one of them. He not only raises his own game, but he also elevates the talent around him. Denver owns the league's top offense because of Jokic's brilliance, and he'll be the best player in any series.</p><p><strong>Why they won't: </strong></p><p><strong>Defense, health. </strong>The Nuggets' 21st-ranked defense isn't championship caliber, as only two teams in NBA history have won titles with below-average defenses, according to Basketball Reference's league-adjusted stats. However, Aaron Gordon's and Peyton Watson's extended absences have skewed the numbers. Gordon, who missed more than half the season due to a hamstring injury, makes a significant impact. When he's on the court, Denver is 10 points better per 100 possessions, and its defensive rating would rank in the top five.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Rockets PR" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-gCTvJ" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/gCTvJ/4/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="90" 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><strong>How they'll win: </strong></p><p><strong>Size. </strong>Even without Steven Adams for half the season, the Rockets finished as the league's best offensive rebounding squad, grabbing nearly 39% of its misses. Many of their best offensive possessions come from second chances, creating a cleaner look against a scrambled defense. Houston is dysfunctional, but its only realistic path to the Finals is utilizing its size to dominate opponents on the interior and create extra shots through offensive rebounding.</p><p><strong>Why they won't: </strong></p><p><strong>Clutch offense.</strong> The Rockets' eighth-best offense plummets to 20th-best in clutch situations. Without a true point guard, Houston often relies on Kevin Durant, Amen Thompson, and Alperen Sengun to generate late-game offense. As defensive pressure intensifies in the postseason, Houston's fourth-quarter woes will likely become more prevalent.</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/35251728/related

NBA contenders: 1 reason why each favorite will - and won't - win the title

The Spurs are the 2-seed in the West and have the second-best odds to win both the conference and...

<p>The Spurs are the 2-seed in the West and have the second-best odds to win both the conference and the NBA Finals. They've also received the most money to win the championship on <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3518688">theScore Bet</a>. However, Spurs believers are ignoring an NBA principle that has existed since the league's inception: Experience is one of the most valuable commodities in the playoffs.</p><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3518688">NBA 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>Thunder</td>
<td>+115</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Spurs</td>
<td>+480</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Celtics</td>
<td>+525</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nuggets</td>
<td>+900</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cavaliers</td>
<td>+1200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Pistons</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Knicks</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Timberwolves</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rockets</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p>👉 <strong><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3518688">Who will win the NBA Finals? Bet it with theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><p>Seven Spurs players average double figures in scoring, but six of them have never appeared in a playoff game. De'Aaron Fox is the lone exception, and he's played in just a single playoff series.</p><p>No team in modern NBA history has won a title without most of its core having competed in prior postseasons. Since 1980, only the 2008 Celtics, 2020 Lakers, and 2022 Warriors went from missing the playoffs the previous season to winning the championship. However, Paul Pierce, LeBron James, and Steph Curry - the three Finals MVPs from those teams - all had extensive playoff history, as did their supporting casts.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>More apt comparisons include the 1995 Magic, who lost in the Finals, and the 2015 Warriors, who won the title; both teams fell in the first round the year before they embarked on surprising runs. A Spurs championship - even a Western Conference title - would defy NBA precedent.</p><p>The 2024 Thunder bear the strongest resemblance to this youthful Spurs squad. After Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Co. earned the West's top seed, their inexperience showed in a pair of crucial second-round games against the Mavericks. Although Oklahoma City bowed out in the conference semifinals, the experience it gained paid dividends the next year, when the team became the second youngest in NBA history to capture a championship.</p><p>The Thunder proved that young teams can win, but even they needed <em>some</em> playoff experience before lifting the Larry O'Brien Trophy.</p><p>After missing the playoffs last season, Mitch Johnson's group has won the most games in the NBA since the calendar flipped to 2026. If San Antonio continues on a similar trajectory to Oklahoma City, though, an early playoff exit may await.</p><p>The obvious counterpoint is that precedent can be tossed out the window when an alien steps on the court. Victor Wembanyama, who's averaging 25 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 3.1 assists, already has a case as the most impactful defender ever. His unique combination of size and agility commands attention from opposing defenses. And at the other end of the court, he doesn't allow any clean looks at the rim, forcing opponents to make more U-turns than a lost driver without directions.</p><p>The problem is that Wembanyama plays less than 30 minutes per game. The number of minutes stars play typically rises during the postseason, and the playoffs are a war of attrition. Can the 7-foot-4 big man handle an expanded workload coupled with heightened physicality and intensity over two months? Without proof, it's hard to believe so.</p><p>The Nuggets' starters, whom the Spurs will likely face in the second round, have played in a combined 322 playoff games, 315 more than San Antonio's starters. Denver has also reached the mountaintop before, in 2023. And the Thunder, who will almost surely glide to the Western Conference finals, are the reigning champions. The Spurs' road to the Finals is far from easy.</p><p>While San Antonio defeated Oklahoma City in four of five regular-season meetings, regular-season success doesn't always translate to the playoffs. Last year, the Celtics swept the season series against the Knicks before losing to them in six games in the conference semifinals. Considering the gap in experience, along with potential schematic and personnel advantages, Denver (+600) and OKC (-150) are better bets to win the West.</p><p>San Antonio masterfully constructed a roster around Wembanyama that features skillful guards, catch-and-shoot wings, and strong depth. The only item it's missing is playoff experience. Until they go through the trials and tribulations other champions have, the Spurs will wait their turn.</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/35237880/related

Can popular Spurs overcome lack of playoff experience?

The Rookie of the Year race between Cooper Flagg and Kon Knueppel is nearing a photo finish. Both...

<p>The Rookie of the Year race between <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/171822" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/171822">Cooper Flagg</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/171826" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/171826">Kon Knueppel</a> is nearing a photo finish. Both players have an excellent case to win the award, leaving voters with a difficult decision to make.</p><p>The betting odds on <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3517862">theScore Bet</a> have reflected the chaos. Last week, Knueppel was on track to secure the honor as a -300 favorite after the publishing of <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/48380547/nba-mvp-award-straw-poll-sga-wemby-luka-jokic-lead-final-2025-26-update">ESPN's straw poll</a>, which indicated that the majority of voters were leaning toward choosing the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/12" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/12">Hornets</a> wing.</p><p>Then, Flagg became the youngest player in NBA history to score 50 points in a game, finishing with 51 in a loss to the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/14" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/14">Magic</a>. Two nights later, he recorded a 45-point outing against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/18" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/18">Lakers</a>, his fourth 40-point game of the season. The incredible stretch flipped the odds in Flagg's favor, making him a -275 favorite while pushing Knueppel to +190. The former Duke teammates have traded places atop the oddsboard throughout the season.</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%2Fnba&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3517862">Knueppel or Flagg? Bet on Rookie of the Year and other NBA awards with theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><p>In most years, either player would be a unanimous Rookie of the Year selection. Instead, the friends are pitted against each other, and there may not be an outright winner.</p><p>Flagg and Knueppel could be honored as co-winners if there's a tie in voting, which has happened four times in NBA history. The most recent example occurred when Elton Brand and Steve Francis each received 50 votes at the conclusion of the 1999-2000 campaign.</p><p>Given the historic seasons from this year's contenders, that outcome would be a fitting way to reward both future All-Stars. In that case, bettors of each candidate would earn half of their potential winnings.</p><p>Flagg, who's averaging 21 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 4.6 assists, is undoubtedly the better overall player. However, the scoring of his counterpart, who's producing 18.7 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game, is coming with unbelievable efficiency; Knueppel is posting a 63.7% true shooting percentage. In February, he surpassed the rookie record for 3-pointers in a season, and he currently leads the league with 268 made threes while shooting 42.9% from distance, the eighth-best mark among players who have attempted at least 150 3-pointers.</p><p>No rookie has ever finished a season as the league leader in triples, but Knueppel is set to become the first. He isn't strictly a catch-and-shoot player either; the 20-year-old consistently drills threes off the dribble and on the move when coming off various actions.</p><p>Although Flagg has only made 29% of his threes, he's a prolific scorer in his own right. The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/21" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/21">Mavericks</a>' budding star has the ability to glide downhill, operate in the mid-range, and forcefully get to his spots, making him nearly unguardable. He's also a more impactful playmaker, rebounder, and defender.</p><p>Knueppel supporters will point to his advantage in two other areas: availability and team success. He's played 11 more games than Flagg, but that isn't a significant gap. Knueppel surged ahead in the race when Flagg missed nearly three weeks from mid-February to early March. The former No. 1 pick has largely stayed on the court since returning, despite the Mavericks angling for a better draft position.</p><p>Dallas is tied for the sixth-worst record in the league. Meanwhile, Knueppel is a crucial reason why the Hornets own the league's best net rating since Jan. 1. Regardless, team success rarely factors into Rookie of the Year voting. Most winners come from poor teams that don't make the playoffs.</p><p>There's no wrong choice between the two candidates. Flagg has showcased a higher ceiling, but Knueppel has put together what's arguably a more impressive season. In the end, a pair of trophies may be handed out.</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/35178263/related

NBA Rookie of the Year race: Flagg or Knueppel?

Michigan won its first national championship since 1989 on Monday night and brought the Big Ten i...

<p>Michigan won its first national championship since 1989 on Monday night and brought the Big Ten its first title since 2000. As the maize and blue confetti fell inside Lucas Oil Stadium, the transfer portal opened, signaling the official start of the college basketball offseason.</p><p>With more than 1,000 players entering the portal, rosters turn over completely every year. It's nearly impossible to identify which teams will be elite when the season rolls around in November.</p><p>As coaches scramble to build out their rosters and compete for the top transfers, we don't know who will suit up for each school. But coaches, the cultures they've built, and their programs' resources are typically solid predictors of next season's contenders.</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=3516276">2027 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>+750</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michigan</td>
<td>+900</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Arizona</td>
<td>+1300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Florida</td>
<td>+1400</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Houston</td>
<td>+1500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michigan State</td>
<td>+1500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Arkansas</td>
<td>+1600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kansas</td>
<td>+1600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UConn</td>
<td>+2000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Illinois</td>
<td>+2000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>North Carolina</td>
<td>+2000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Gonzaga</td>
<td>+2500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Iowa State</td>
<td>+2800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kentucky</td>
<td>+2800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Texas Tech</td>
<td>+2800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Vanderbilt</td>
<td>+3000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>St. John's</td>
<td>+3300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Alabama</td>
<td>+3300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Virginia</td>
<td>+3300</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=3516276">Bet on next season's national champion with theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><p>Following back-to-back embarrassing collapses in the Final Four and Elite Eight, Duke is back as the title favorite. That has more to do with the program's consistent excellence than the current state of its roster. While the Blue Devils own the nation's best recruiting class, it's increasingly difficult to win with freshmen. Michigan just became the first national champion with a starting lineup composed entirely of transfers. Duke has many crucial players leaving for the NBA, but they should attract some coveted transfers.</p><p>While Big Ten Player of the Year Yaxel Lendeborg will depart for the NBA, Michigan landed five-star prospect Brandon McCoy Jr. and should return key pieces from its championship run, including Morez Johnson Jr., Aday Mara, and Elliot Cadeau. Regardless of the personnel, Dusty May has built a winning culture in Ann Arbor.</p><p>Arizona, Florida, and Houston have proven they own the resources and infrastructure to consistently be among the nation's top teams. </p><p>Tom Izzo declared in March that he wasn't retiring, and he's returning to one of his deepest and best Michigan State teams in a while. Assuming Jeremy Fears Jr. stays in East Lansing, the Spartans have the guard play and frontcourt to contend.</p><p>Considering Dan Hurley just took UConn to three national title games in four seasons, the Huskies are surprisingly low on the oddsboard. While Alex Karaban, Braylon Mullins, and Tarris Reed Jr. - three integral pieces of this year's squad - are all likely gone, only a fool would question Hurley's ability to attract talent.</p><p>Gonzaga, Kansas, Arkansas, and St. John's all employ Hall of Fame coaches, which means their programs always have a chance.</p><p>North Carolina could slide up or down the board depending on how former Nuggets coach Michael Malone assembles his first-ever college roster. Malone will have the necessary money to retain and acquire players, and he has the personality of a successful coach. The next few weeks of recruiting will be crucial in determining whether Malone will restore glory to North Carolina in Year 1.</p><p>Programs like Kentucky and Texas Tech have plenty of funds to pay players. However, Kentucky showed this season that a team is more important than talent, especially when the highest-paid players don't contribute to winning basketball.</p><p>While it's too early to read into next season's title odds, we have a solid sense of which teams have the resources required to recruit enough winning players. Coaches and cultures are better bets than depth charts and dollar signs.</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/35155384/related

2027 national title odds: Duke edges Michigan as early favorite

From 68 to two. After three thrilling weeks of March Madness, a national champion will be crowned...

<p>From 68 to two. After three thrilling weeks of March Madness, a national champion will be crowned Monday night. While the Final Four didn't live up to the hype, this should be an incredible championship game between two heavyweights. Michigan is searching for its first national title since 1989, while UConn could become the first team since 1975 to win three championships in four years. Let's get to our spread, total, and player prop picks.</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=3516092">Will Michigan or UConn win the title? 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/796827/Game_Picks-Yellow.jpg?ts=1754581983" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796827/Game_Picks-Yellow.jpg?ts=1754581983 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796827/Game_Picks-Yellow.jpg?ts=1754581983 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796827/Game_Picks-Yellow.jpg?ts=1754581983 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796827/Game_Picks-Yellow.jpg?ts=1754581983 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796827/Game_Picks-Yellow.jpg?ts=1754581983 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><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)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-VH0VG" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/VH0VG/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="118" 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=38e5b96b-7359-4d8d-8e87-ce4896ebad6e&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=3516092">Pick: Michigan -6.5</a>
</h3><p>How could anyone bet against Dan Hurley? He's 11-0 against the spread in the Sweet 16 and later rounds and 18-1 overall in the NCAA Tournament across the last four seasons. The man doesn't lose in March, which makes this spread somewhat puzzling. But the Wolverines being 6.5-point favorites in spite of that tells us everything. Michigan is one of the most dominant teams in college basketball history, and one game remains before its coronation.</p><p>After annihilating Arizona - another team that's analytically considered one of the best teams ever - it's clear that Michigan's talent is far superior to everyone else's. UConn has limited other teams with elite offenses, such as Duke and Illinois, but the Wolverines' depth is their greatest strength. They include everyone offensively, plus they can score in the post and from beyond the arc. The Huskies don't have enough size to contain Michigan's offensive rebounding or interior presence.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>If the Wildcats struggled in that department, then any team facing the Wolverines will. It's hard to trust UConn's offensive creators, many of whom have performed inconsistently on that side of the ball, to score enough in this matchup. Hurley's game plan will keep things close, but eventually Michigan will pull away and hoist the trophy. <em>- Oshtry</em></p><h3>🏀 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=c9698ac9-49e4-4039-b38c-1f1e32a88ff2&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=3516092">Pick: Over 145.5 points</a>
</h3><p>UConn likes to play at a snail's pace, yet the Huskies are among the top 50 teams in points per game, and they've scored at least 70 in 15 of their last 18 contests. The game total has gone over in 11 of those 18 outings.</p><p>Michigan, meanwhile, is scoring at a level never seen in college basketball. The Wolverines, who are No. 4 in KenPom's offensive efficiency metric, have eclipsed 90 points in every tournament game, averaging 94.4 points over their five contests. The game total has hit over in each of them.</p><p>It's often said that playing in a football stadium can affect shooting, but both of these teams shot over 36% from distance in their respective Final Four matchups. With Solo Ball and Yaxel Lendeborg off the availability report, there's too much talent in this game to bet the under. -<em> Deeg</em></p><blockquote><p><strong>👉 <a href="http://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=3516092">Bet on the national championship with the theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796847/player_props-Yellow.jpg?ts=1754583017" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796847/player_props-Yellow.jpg?ts=1754583017 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796847/player_props-Yellow.jpg?ts=1754583017 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796847/player_props-Yellow.jpg?ts=1754583017 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796847/player_props-Yellow.jpg?ts=1754583017 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796847/player_props-Yellow.jpg?ts=1754583017 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=66fc7992-40cd-464c-b600-279f03e61022&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=41&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=21&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab%2Fevent%2Fe3123015-9e61-4552-b69d-550f77b1f936&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3516092">Pick: Aday Mara over 13.5 points</a>
</h3><p>The 7-foot-3 center is coming off a monster performance against Arizona in which he scored a season-high 26 points against one of the best interior defenses in the country.</p><p>Michigan utilized Mara in pick-and-rolls all night, and I imagine the Wolverines will once again take advantage of his size. Point guard Elliot Cadeau was nearly unstoppable when driving the lane and throwing lobs to Mara on Saturday. Those actions will likely be a key part of the team's offense early in this contest.</p><p>UConn ranks 232nd in the nation in fouls per game, so Mara should have plenty of opportunities at the free-throw line Monday. The big man has eclipsed 13.5 points in six of his last eight games, and I expect him to have solid offensive production versus the Huskies.<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>

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National championship bets: Can UConn keep it close vs. Michigan?

Michigan opened as a 7.5-point favorite over UConn on theScore Bet in Monday's national title gam...

<p>Michigan opened as a 7.5-point favorite over UConn 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=3513856">theScore Bet</a> in Monday's national title game. The projected line was 5.5, but Michigan's dominance over Arizona in the semifinal game bumped the spread up.</p><p>Arizona vs. Michigan was promoted as one of the best Final Four matchups ever - and for good reason. The Wolverines and Wildcats are two of the best teams ever, according to <a href="https://kenpom.com/">KenPom's metrics</a>.</p><p>But Michigan's 91-73 smackdown proved how lethal this group is. Its 18-point win is tied for the largest in a tournament game between No. 1 seeds since 1979, per ESPN. Michigan has won all five of its tournament games by at least 13 points. The Wolverines could win their first national championship since 1989 and become the first Big Ten team to win since 2000.</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=3513856">Will Michigan or UConn win the title? Bet it with theScore Bet</a></strong></p></blockquote><p>Michigan's victory didn't come without hiccups. Big Ten Player of the Year Yaxel Lendeborg suffered a left MCL sprain and ankle injury in the first half. He returned in the latter half but was clearly hobbled. He declared he won't miss the title game, but his impact could be limited. With a hampered Lendeborg only playing 14 minutes, Aday Mara had his best game of the season, totaling 26 points and nine rebounds.</p><p>Meanwhile, UConn is also chasing history. It could become the third program ever - and first since 1975 - to win three titles in four years. The Huskies limited the nation's best offense in Illinois to 62 points in the semifinal. While UConn doesn't have the talent or depth that Michigan has, Hurley, who hasn't lost a tournament game with UConn in the Sweet 16 or later rounds, will surely develop a game plan to create a compelling final.</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/35130378/related

Michigan opens as 7.5-point favorite over UConn in national title game

If Braylon Mullins' game-winner to complete UConn's improbable comeback over Duke didn't excite y...

<p>If Braylon Mullins' game-winner to complete UConn's improbable comeback over Duke didn't excite you enough, then this should: Both Final Four spreads are expected to close under two points for the first time in over 60 years, setting up unbelievable theater Saturday night.</p><p>UConn and Illinois will kick off the festivities in Indianapolis, while Arizona versus Michigan has the potential to be one of the best tournament games of all time. Michigan and Arizona respectively own the third- and fourth-highest KenPom ratings ever, creating a thrilling matchup with a trip to Monday's title game on the line. We've got you covered with a spread pick from each game and player props.</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=3513261">Who's earning a spot in the title game? 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/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><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)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Twh67" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Twh67/1/" 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=64b298e4-09f9-4cc4-9d53-61b2a152b8ec&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=3513261">Pick: UConn +1.5</a>
</h3><p>I'm done betting against Dan Hurley, who's undefeated against the spread in the Sweet 16 and onward. UConn's win in the Elite Eight demonstrated how much it wears opponents down over 40 minutes. After escaping Michigan State and Duke last weekend, the Huskies have a favorable matchup against Illinois.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Not to take away anything from Illinois' run, but its last three wins came against VCU, Houston, and Iowa. That's not quite the gauntlet UConn has gone through. The Fighting Illini possess the nation's best offense, but the Huskies own a top-10 defensive unit. This game will come down to whether Illinois can successfully limit UConn's offensive attack, which I'm skeptical of.</p><p>The Illini have mostly faced offenses - in conference play and the NCAA Tournament - that rely on guard creation and ball screens. But that's not how UConn operates. The Huskies' constant movement and off-ball screening make them incredibly difficult to guard, even though they don't have as much talent as previous squads. Illinois' personnel, mostly because of its size, isn't equipped to guard UConn's offense away from the ball. In a coin-flip game like this, it's also worth looking at the coaching matchup to find an edge. Hurley is in his third Final Four in four seasons and is undoubtedly the best coach in the sport. With nearly a week to prepare, he'll likely outcoach Brad Underwood, who's making his first Final Four appearance. <em>- Oshtry</em></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) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-gxCmp" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/gxCmp/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=148ff037-a919-47f6-8b59-ec2e10ebf701&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=3513261">Pick: Michigan -1.5</a>
</h3><p>These are the top two teams in KenPom's net rating metric this season, and they're both among the top five highest-rated teams in KenPom's history. So, this contest isn't just the game of the year; it's a historically good matchup that doesn't come around often.</p><p>The biggest advantage in this game lies with Michigan, which is comfortable shooting from distance. Arizona, meanwhile, sits 338th in 3-point attempts per contest. The Wolverines have arguably the best defensive frontcourt in the country, averaging 6.1 blocks per game - the second-highest mark among D-I teams. It will be tough for the Wildcats to score inside, where they usually dominate. I foresee Michigan forcing them to play an unfamiliar style.</p><p>The Wolverines are shooting an insane 45% from deep throughout the tournament, and I think that's where Saturday's game will be won. I'll pick Michigan to cover this small spread and head to the national championship. <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=3513261">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/796841/player_props-Blue.jpg?ts=1754582787" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796841/player_props-Blue.jpg?ts=1754582787 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796841/player_props-Blue.jpg?ts=1754582787 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796841/player_props-Blue.jpg?ts=1754582787 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796841/player_props-Blue.jpg?ts=1754582787 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796841/player_props-Blue.jpg?ts=1754582787 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><h3>🏀 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=aa49f095-7d28-4e19-b66e-7aed68761736&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=43&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=23&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab%2Fevent%2F13700454-2496-42ad-82e1-38b2d1971f00&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3513261">Pick: Alex Karaban over 12.5 points (-115)</a>
</h3><p>Alex Karaban's five-point outing in the Elite Eight almost sent UConn home, but that was a blip in what's otherwise been a solid tournament for the senior. Karaban scored at least 17 points in each of the first three tourney games. Even when he struggled against Duke, the volume existed, as he finished 2-of-10 from the field and 1-of-6 from three.</p><p>I'd expect Karaban's efficiency to improve versus Illinois, given the advantageous matchup. The Huskies will use off-ball actions to drag the Illini bigs away from the basket and create mismatches for Karaban. Illinois prioritizes cutting off drives, often surrendering catch-and-shoot threes, so Karaban should have plenty of looks from deep. I trust the nearly 38% 3-point shooter to have a bounce-back game. <em>- Oshtry</em></p><h3>🏀 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=a836c3ef-1415-4933-a990-75bdf4276312&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=47&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=20&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab%2Fevent%2Fba826cfb-c3cf-4296-8c3d-985f43ddce26&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3513261">Pick: Brayden Burries over 2.5 made threes (+135)</a>
</h3><p>Brayden Burries is the only Wildcat who's made at least 50 threes this season. At this point, everyone knows Arizona can't shoot and rarely even attempts threes. It would much rather bully opponents in the paint and on the offensive glass. Although Michigan has a stronger front line than most, the Wildcats' approach won't change. The Wolverines are likely to sell out to protect the rim by packing the paint, sitting in gaps, and doubling in the post.</p><p>Burries will be guarded consistently because he's a 40% 3-point shooter. However, opportunities will be there for Arizona's sharpshooter, who has drilled at least three 3-pointers in three of the Wildcats' four tournament games. <em>- Oshtry</em></p><h3>🏀 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=e5d3c89c-8d8f-4772-b9bd-68883c0f411e&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=43&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=23&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab%2Fevent%2F13700454-2496-42ad-82e1-38b2d1971f00&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3513261">Pick: David Mirkovic over 12.5 points (-115)</a>
</h3><p>Since mid-January, Mirkovic has averaged 14.9 points per game, and the freshman will cause fits for UConn's half-court defense Saturday. He can score going downhill and light up opposing defenses from deep. Mirkovic has been a massive part of Illinois' pick-and-roll offense of late, meaning he'll have the ball in his hands often versus the Huskies.</p><p>He tallied eight points against UConn in November but played just 18 minutes, his fewest in a game this year. Mirkovic has exceeded 12.5 points in eight of his last 13 contests. I think there's a ton of value here, as this number feels too low. <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>

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Final Four picks: Who will advance to national championship?

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NBA MVP Rankings: Red-hot Luka makes late charge

When the 76ers earned a thrilling win over the Hornets on Saturday night, it didn't just signal t...

<p>When the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/4" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/4">76ers</a> earned a thrilling win over the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/12" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/12">Hornets</a> on Saturday night, it didn't just signal to the Eastern Conference that Philadelphia is a threat when healthy; it strengthened the Sixers' position in the crammed play-in picture, where six teams separated by 3.5 games are fighting for four playoff spots.</p><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/8" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/8">Pistons</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/1" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/1">Celtics</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/3" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/3">Knicks</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/7" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/7">Cavaliers</a> are virtually locked into the top four seeds, but the bottom of the conference is an entangled mess as less than two weeks remain in the regular season.</p><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/14" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/14">Magic</a> and Hornets are the only teams with less than a 50% chance of making the postseason, though the other four are far from secure.</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%2Fnba&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3511032">Eastern Conference play-in picture</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Record entering Monday</th>
<th>Odds to make/miss playoffs</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>5. Raptors</td>
<td>42-32</td>
<td>-3000/+900</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6. Hawks</td>
<td> 42-33</td>
<td>-650/+380</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7. Sixers</td>
<td>41-33</td>
<td>-750/+425</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8. Magic</td>
<td>39-35</td>
<td>+105/-135</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9. Heat</td>
<td>39-36</td>
<td>-105/-125</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10. Hornets</td>
<td>39-36</td>
<td>+105/-135</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p>🏀 <strong><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3511032">Bet on teams' playoff chances and other NBA futures on theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3511032">5. Raptors</a></h3><p>After a surprising 29-19 start, the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/5" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/5">Raptors</a> have since gone 13-13 and are fighting to avoid the play-in. While the other play-in potentials are currently looking up at them in the standings, Toronto still has the Pistons, Celtics, Knicks, and two pivotal contests against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/13" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/13">Heat</a> on the schedule. Without offensive star power, the Raptors have relied on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96044" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96044">Scottie Barnes</a>' versatility, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44931" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44931">Brandon Ingram</a>'s scoring, and impressive depth from the league's 10th-best bench.</p><p>They own the tiebreaker over the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/11" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/11">Hawks</a> and Magic and must win one game versus the Heat to secure the tiebreaker over Miami. An epic collapse is the only thing that would prevent Toronto from missing the postseason.</p><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3511032">6. Hawks</a></h3><p>NBA fans have probably read that the Hawks are the league's hottest team. While it's true they've won 15 of their last 17 games, a closer look reveals that a remarkably easy schedule helped them surge up the standings. Thirteen of those victories came against teams not currently in the playoff picture, and the other two were against the decimated Sixers and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96056" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96056">Cade Cunningham</a>-less Pistons.</p><p>Beyond <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96072" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96072">Jalen Johnson</a>'s emergence as an All-NBA-level player, Atlanta's improved defense - the seventh-best unit over the last two months - has carried it past the other play-in candidates.</p><p>But with matchups against the Celtics, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/2" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/2">Nets</a>, Knicks, Magic, Heat, and two against the Cavaliers left, Atlanta could fall into the play-in, where its seasons have ended the last two years. However, the Hawks own the tiebreaker over the Sixers after sweeping them during the regular season.</p><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3511032">7. Sixers</a></h3><p>No one spreads false hope like the 76ers, who have overcome extended absences from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/1889" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/1889">Paul George</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93855" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93855">Tyrese Maxey</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31932" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/31932">Joel Embiid</a> to move to seventh in the East, one game out of fifth place.</p><p>Their four best players - Embiid, Maxey, George, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/171809" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/171809">VJ Edgecombe</a> - have only played 17 games and 300 minutes together. Here's the good news: When those four do take the court, along with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37666" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37666">Kelly Oubre</a>, the Sixers outscore opponents by 6.3 points per 100 possessions, which would be tied for the NBA's fifth-best net rating. When equipped with the Embiid-Maxey empty-side pick-and-roll, plus floor-spacing and secondary creation from George, Edgecombe, and Oubre, Philly is as talented as any team in the East.</p><p>The bad news is that NBA history has taught us it's nearly impossible to make a playoff run without having a significant number of reps and sustained chemistry. Saturday's win over the Hornets was the first time Embiid, George, and Maxey played together since Jan. 29. Among Philly's final eight opponents are the Heat, Wizards, Pacers, Bucks, and Pistons. The Sixers should escape the play-in, but jumping to the fifth seed is important, as they'll want to meet the Cavs rather than the Knicks in the opening round.</p><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3511032">8. Magic</a></h3><p>Jamahl Mosley has a better chance of being fired before the season ends than he does leading the bleeding Magic to the playoffs. Orlando has lost seven of its last eight games and is coming off its worst offensive performance of the season in a loss to Toronto on Sunday. The Magic committed 28 turnovers in that outing, the second most by a team this season.</p><p>While floundering offenses have been par for the course with this Orlando core, its defense has shockingly crashed. After owning the league's second-best defense last season, the Magic are outside the top 15 this campaign. Missing the playoffs after being picked by many pundits to win the East would be a disastrous outcome.</p><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3511032">9. Heat</a></h3><p>The play-in tournament, otherwise known as the Miami Heat invitational, will likely feature the Heat for the fourth consecutive season. They've made the postseason through the play-in each of the last three seasons. In a win-and-in scenario, Erik Spoelstra's game-planning and coaching brilliance typically provides Miami with an edge.</p><p>While the Heat have lost seven of their last nine since going to ridiculous efforts to help <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53731" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53731">Bam Adebayo</a> reach 83 points (maybe the basketball gods are punishing them), they have enough talent between Adebayo, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69689" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/69689">Tyler Herro</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/12144" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/12144">Norman Powell</a> to sneak into the playoffs.</p><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3511032">10. Hornets</a></h3><p>The Hornets own the league's best net rating (10.5) and fourth-best record (28-14) since Jan. 1. But they're still in 10th place and three games out of the sixth seed because of a 9-20 start to the season. With seven games remaining, including three against the top three teams in the East, the hole is likely too big for Charlotte to climb out of. However, it could move into the ideal seven-eight matchup to avoid a single-elimination scenario.</p><p>Charlotte's starting lineup of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93879" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93879">LaMelo Ball</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110250" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110250">Brandon Miller</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/171826" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/171826">Kon Knueppel</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53740" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53740">Miles Bridges</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102774" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102774">Moussa Diabate</a> has posted a 27.7 net rating in 438 minutes together, by far the best mark in the NBA among five-man lineups that have played at least 150 minutes. The Hornets will be the best team in the play-in tournament, but experience matters in these settings, and none of their starters have played a single playoff minute in their careers.</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/35064601/related

NBA East playoff race: Can Raptors, Sixers avoid play-in?

And then there were eight. Although this NCAA Tournament has already produced more games decided ...

<p>And then there were 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 - and we should see more in these intriguing quarterfinal matchups. We've got you covered with a pick for all four Elite Eight contests.</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=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3508964">Sunday'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) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-KRj1Q" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/KRj1Q/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=a4ff06a1-d6b9-4cb6-b895-90750cb65431&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=3508964">Pick: Tennessee +7.5</a>
</h3><p>Michigan has rolled through the tournament without facing much adversity, but it'll likely encounter its first roadblock here.</p><p>Tennessee matches up well against a Wolverines squad that thrives on the glass. The Volunteers rank third in total rebounding and first in offensive boards per game. We saw this play out against Iowa State as Tennessee posted an absurd plus-21 rebounding advantage. Forward Felix Okpara - a key cog in the ninth-ranked defense in KenPom's efficiency metric - is an elite shot-blocker and interior defender who can give Michigan's bigs fits.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Michigan likes to play fast, but Tennessee can throw a wrench into that game plan - the team ranks 245th in tempo. That's huge for underdogs covering a spread. The Volunteers have also been great at keeping games close over the last couple of months, as they haven't lost by more than seven points in 20 straight contests. I like Tennessee to give the 1-seed Wolverines a fight on Sunday afternoon. <em> - Deeg</em></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) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-zeMRZ" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/zeMRZ/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=e16dbd9a-1c55-40c7-8b87-a4be7a8e6d18&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=3508964">Pick: Duke -4.5</a>
</h3><p>It's hard to ignore Dan Hurley's 9-0 record against the spread with UConn in the Sweet 16 or later. But that streak must end at some point, and it will end against Duke. The Blue Devils might've faced their toughest test of the tournament in Friday's physical outing against a well-coached St. John's group.</p><p>Duke has struggled recently against frontcourt size and teams that pressure Cameron Boozer away from the rim. St. John's had the personnel to challenge Duke's offense. Instead, the Blue Devils only attempted 14 threes and dominated inside. If the Red Storm couldn't stop Duke, nobody can. While the Huskies were impressive against Michigan State, they don't have the frontcourt to stop Duke. Plus, Duke shot 16 more free throws than St. John's. The Blue Devils own real estate at the free-throw line this tournament, and that spells trouble for a Huskies team that's 227th in the nation in foul rate.</p><p>Finally, Duke is healthy at the right time. Patrick Ngongba II returned earlier this tournament, and Caleb Foster came back for the Sweet 16 after missing the last three weeks. Foster scored 11 points in 19 minutes. At full strength, Duke - which has lost one game since Jan. 1 - is unstoppable. <em>- Oshtry</em></p><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 -5.5</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 they 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><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 because Illinois' elite offense had 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 the Illini's 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 Duke's run end vs. UConn?

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>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34961098/related

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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Sam Oshtry

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