Published Mar 19, 2:45pm ET by
Gabriel Kozlow - Betting Preview Analyst and Sports Writer
Last updated Mar 19, 2:45pm ET
Updated Mar 19, 2:45pm ET
The UCLA Bruins face a tough challenge against the UCF Knights, as they are currently missing a few key players due to injury. The game should be a close battle and will be played at Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia.
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| UCLA BRUINS | -245 |
| UCF KNIGHTS | +200 |
Despite posting a 26-11 overall record, UCF has lost four of its last five games, including a Big 12 quarterfinal loss to Arizona. Still, the Knights have proven they can compete with top opponents, picking up wins over Texas Tech, Kansas, and BYU this season.
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UCF is one of the top teams in the nation in second-chance points, thanks in large part to leading rebounder Jamichael Stillwell. He averages 8.0 rebounds per game and stands out with 3.2 offensive rebounds per game, creating extra scoring opportunities. Rebounding will be a major focus for UCF, as the Knights currently hold a five-rebound-per-game advantage over UCLA.
The UCLA Bruins have had an interesting season, but it can still be viewed as a successful one with solid March Madness odds. Their outlook would be even stronger, but recent injuries to several key players have affected their tournament prospects. Despite those concerns, Tyler Bilodeau and Donovan Dent are expected to return for the first-round matchup.
Bilodeau has been the team’s leading scorer, averaging 17.6 points per game while shooting 51.8% from the field. Dent has led the team in playmaking with 7.6 assists per game and just 1.9 turnovers per game. Both players are extremely important to UCLA, so the Bruins will be hoping they are ready to return.
The Bruins enter this game as 5.5-point favorites, after opening at -6.5. The over/under is set at 152.5, with UCLA at -245 on the moneyline and UCF at +200.
UCLA has appeared in March Madness more than 50 times and owns 11 national championships. UCF has made five tournament appearances, with its best run coming in 2019, when it reached the Round of 32. Despite some injury concerns, we are taking UCLA to advance to the next round.
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Pick
UCLA Bruins (-245)
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