#14 Troy vs #3 Kentucky NCAAB Pick: Can The Sun Belt Make Noise? (Mar 21)

• Troy secured a 78-72 victory over Arkansas State in the Sun Belt title game.
• Kentucky suffered an 82-68 loss vs Alabama.
• The last meeting between these schools was on Nov. 20, 2017. Kentucky won 70-62

The #14 seed Troy Trojans are set to face the #3 seed Kentucky Wildcats in the first round of the NCAA Tournament on Mar. 21, at Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Troy enters the tournament with momentum, having clinched the Sun Belt Conference title, while Kentucky looks to rebound from a recent setback in the SEC Tournament. Both teams aim to advance in the Midwest Region, with Kentucky favored but Troy poised to challenge.

The Trojans Want To Represent The Sun Belt

The Trojans have been on an impressive run, boasting a 23-10 overall record and capturing the Sun Belt Conference title. Their recent 94-81 victory over Arkansas State showcased their offensive capabilities, with standout performances from key players.

Tayton Conerway has been instrumental, averaging 19 points, six rebounds, four assists, and three steals per game over the last month.

Forward Thomas Dowd has been a force in the paint, averaging 13 points and nine rebounds per game in the same span. To secure an upset against Kentucky, Troy will need to maintain their defensive intensity and capitalize on their offensive opportunities.

The Wildcats Need To Rebound

Kentucky enters the tournament with a 22-11 record, having faced challenges in the latter part of the season, including a 99-70 loss to Alabama in the SEC Tournament semifinals.

The Wildcats have undergone significant roster changes, with new head coach Mark Pope assembling a team primarily through the transfer portal.

This strategy has yielded a cohesive unit that has secured a No. 3 seed in the tournament. Despite their offensive prowess, averaging 78.5 points per game, Kentucky has struggled defensively, allowing opponents to exploit gaps. The potential return of guard Lamont Butler could bolster their defensive lineup, providing much-needed stability.

Troy Trojans vs Kentucky Wildcats Pick

Kentucky is favored by 11.5 points in this matchup, with the over/under set at 152.5 points. While the Wildcats possess a higher seed and a roster filled with talent, their defensive inconsistencies present an opportunity for Troy. The Trojans’ recent form and offensive capabilities suggest they could exploit Kentucky’s defensive lapses. Expect a competitive game where Troy has the potential to cover the spread, making this a matchup to watch closely.