Saturday, 03/08/25

Today's Conference Tournament Games

March 08, 2025

Table of Contents

Big Sky Tournament - 1st Round Preview

1.) #10 Sacramento State vs. #9 Weber State - 7:30 PM ET (ESPN+)

The No. 10 seed Sacramento State Hornets (7-24, 3-15 Big Sky) face the No. 9 seed Weber State Wildcats (11-21, 5-13 Big Sky) in a Big Sky Tournament first-round elimination game at Idaho Central Arena in Boise, ID. Weber State swept the regular-season series, winning 78-65 on January 25 on the road and 64-56 on February 20 at home, outscoring Sacramento State by 21 points total. The Hornets limp in after a 72-64 loss to Idaho on March 3, with Jacob Holt posting 18 points, while Weber State closed with an 85-74 defeat to Northern Colorado on March 3, led by Blaise Threatt’s 22 points. Sacramento State’s Holt (16.2 PPG) anchors their offense, while Weber State’s Threatt (20.1 PPG) drives the Wildcats in this postseason opener.

Betting Insights: Weber State opens at -3.5 (-110), with a moneyline of -178, while Sacramento State sits at +3.5 (-110) and +146. The over/under is 133.5. Weber State’s 12-16 ATS record this season edges Sacramento State’s 11-16-1, with the Wildcats going 2-0 ATS vs. the Hornets this year and 9-9 ATS in Big Sky play. Sacramento State’s 11-13-1 ATS as 3.5+ point underdogs and 9-6 ATS on the road/neutral sites show some fight, though they’re 3-10 ATS at home. Scoring’s been low—games hit 143 and 120 this season—with Weber State at 13/30 overs and Sacramento State at 15/30, and recent trends (five of Weber State’s last six unders) leaning down.

Best Bet: Under 133.5 (-110). Weber State’s sweep and Threatt’s scoring edge favor them, but the under’s my honest best. Sacramento State’s 66.1 PPG (346th nationally) and Weber State’s 71.8 PPG allowed align with a Hornets defense giving up 70.1 PPG—season games averaged 131.5, just under this line. Slow paces (Weber State 66.8, Sacramento State 67.2 possessions) and Weber’s 5-1 under run make this the strongest play—Holt and Threatt keep it competitive, but points stay scarce.

2.) #8 Eastern Washington vs. #7 Northern Arizona - 9:30 PM ET (ESPN+)

The No. 8 seed Eastern Washington Eagles (10-21, 6-12 Big Sky) face the No. 7 seed Northern Arizona Lumberjacks (17-14, 8-10 Big Sky) in a Big Sky Tournament first-round elimination game at Idaho Central Arena in Boise, ID. Northern Arizona won their lone regular-season meeting this year, 70-61, on January 23 in Cheney, outscoring Eastern Washington by nine points. The Eagles enter after a 74-64 loss to Montana on March 3, with Nic McClain scoring 19 points, while Northern Arizona comes off an 82-76 defeat to Portland State on March 3, led by Trent McLaughlin’s 22 points. Eastern Washington’s Andrew Cook (14.8 PPG) drives their attack, while Northern Arizona’s McLaughlin (18.5 PPG) powers the Lumberjacks in this postseason opener.

Betting Insights: Northern Arizona opens at -3.5 (-110), with a moneyline of -168, while Eastern Washington sits at +3.5 (-110) and +139. The over/under is 144.5. Northern Arizona’s 15-14 ATS record this season edges Eastern Washington’s 14-15-1, with the Lumberjacks going 1-0 ATS vs. the Eagles this year and 10-8 ATS in Big Sky play. Eastern Washington’s 11-11 ATS as underdogs and 4-6 ATS in their last 10 show resilience, though they’re 4-12 straight-up on the road/neutral sites. Scoring’s been moderate—the January game hit 131 points—with Northern Arizona at 15/30 overs and Eastern Washington at 16/30, and recent trends (three of Northern Arizona’s last four overs) leaning up.

Best Bet: Northern Arizona -3.5 (-110). Eastern Washington’s grit keeps them scrappy, but Northern Arizona’s 70-61 win in January and McLaughlin’s scoring punch give them the upper hand. The Lumberjacks’ 47.2% FG tops Eastern Washington’s 44.8%, and their 10-8 Big Sky ATS record outshines the Eagles’ 6-12 conference mark—NAU pulls away to a 74-68 win, covering by 6.

Big South Tournament - Semifinal Preview

1.) 4 Radford vs. #1 High Point - 12:00 PM ET (ESPN+)#

The No. 4 seed Radford Highlanders (20-12, 9-7 Big South) face the No. 1 seed High Point Panthers (27-5, 14-2 Big South) in a Big South Tournament semifinal elimination game at Freedom Hall Civic Center in Johnson City, TN. High Point swept the regular-season series, winning 76-58 on January 2 on the road and 78-75 on February 5 at home, outscoring Radford by 21 points total. Radford advanced with a 74-69 overtime win over Presbyterian in the quarterfinals yesterday, led by Jarvis Moss’s 16 points, while High Point enters their tournament opener after a bye, coming off an 88-66 rout of South Carolina Upstate on February 26, paced by Trae Benham’s 17 points. Radford’s David Early (15.0 PPG) drives their attack, while High Point’s Kezza Giffa (14.6 PPG) powers the Panthers in this postseason showdown.

Betting Insights:High Point opens at -9.5 (-110), with a moneyline of -410, while Radford sits at +9.5 (-110) and +315. The over/under is 140.5. High Point’s 15-14-1 ATS record edges Radford’s 16-14, with the Panthers going 2-0 ATS vs. the Highlanders this year and 10-6 ATS in Big South play. Radford’s 8-10 ATS as underdogs and yesterday’s 5-point cover as 4.5-point favorites show resilience, though they’re 1-5 ATS in their last six neutral-site games. Scoring varies—games hit 134 and 153 this season—with High Point at 14/30 overs and Radford at 13/31, and recent trends (five of High Point’s last six day games under) leaning low .

Best Bet: High Point -9.5 (-110). Radford’s overtime battle yesterday keeps them scrappy, but High Point’s 2-0 sweep and 11-game win streak take over. The Panthers’ 82.4 PPG (19th nationally) and 49.4% FG overwhelm Radford’s 73.2 PPG allowed, while Giffa’s edge exploits a fatigued Highlanders squad—my honest best is High Point covering.

2.) #2 UNC Asheville vs. #3 Winthrop - 2:30 PM ET (ESPN+)

The No. 2 seed UNC Asheville Bulldogs (21-10, 11-5 Big South) face the No. 3 seed Winthrop Eagles (21-10, 11-5 Big South) in a Big South Tournament semifinal elimination game at Freedom Hall Civic Center in Johnson City, TN. UNC Asheville won their lone regular-season meeting this year, 93-84, on January 18 at home, outscoring Winthrop by nine points—Winthrop had won the previous matchup 103-90 on March 1, 2024, splitting their last two games. The Bulldogs advanced with a 72-65 win over Charleston Southern in the quarterfinals yesterday, led by Jordan Marsh’s 19 points, while Winthrop comes off an 85-74 victory over Longwood yesterday, powered by Bryce Baker’s 24 points. UNC Asheville’s Marsh (18.9 PPG) drives their offense, while Winthrop’s Kelton Talford (15.9 PPG) anchors the Eagles in this postseason showdown.

Betting Insights: Winthrop opens at -1.5 (-110), with a moneyline of -126, while UNC Asheville sits at +1.5 (-110) and +105. The over/under is 166.5. Winthrop’s 16-13 ATS record edges UNC Asheville’s 18-13, with each team going 1-1 ATS in their head-to-head matchups this year—Winthrop at 10-7 ATS and UNC Asheville at 9-7 ATS in Big South play. UNC Asheville’s 10-10 ATS as underdogs and yesterday’s 7-point cover as 6.5-point favorites show grit, while Winthrop’s 8-3 ATS in their last 11 boost their case. Scoring’s been high—games hit 193 and 177 this season—with Winthrop at 18-11 overs and UNC Asheville at 15-31, and recent trends (six of Winthrop’s last seven overs) pushing the total up.

Best Bet: Winthrop -1.5 (-110). Winthrop’s 85-74 win yesterday showcases their momentum, while UNC Asheville’s 72-65 grinder hints at fatigue. The Eagles’ 85.0 PPG (5th nationally) and Talford’s inside game edge out the Bulldogs’ 70.4 PPG-allowed defense—my honest best is Winthrop covering in an 85-82 victory.

CAA Tournament - 2nd Round Preview

1.) #9 Elon vs. #8 Drexel - 12:00 PM ET (FloHoops)

The No. 9 seed Elon Phoenix (17-14, 8-10 CAA) face the No. 8 seed Drexel Dragons (17-14, 9-9 CAA) in a CAA Tournament second-round elimination game at St. Elizabeths East Entertainment and Sports Arena in Washington, D.C. Elon won their only regular-season meeting this year, 65-54, on January 16 in Philadelphia, outscoring Drexel by 11 points. Both teams enter their tournament opener after byes, with the Phoenix coming off a 71-66 loss to Stony Brook on March 1, led by TK Simpkins’s 23 points, and Drexel following a 59-52 loss to William & Mary on March 1, paced by Kobe MaGee’s 15 points. Elon’s Simpkins (16.2 PPG) powers their offense, while Drexel’s MaGee (13.7 PPG) anchors the Dragons in this postseason clash.

Betting Insights: Drexel opens at -1.5 (-110), with a moneyline of -125, while Elon sits at +1.5 (-110) and +104. The over/under is 129.5. Drexel’s 18-11-1 ATS record this season outpaces Elon’s 17-13, with Elon going 1-0 ATS vs. the Dragons this year and Drexel at 10-8 ATS in CAA play. Elon’s 12-11 ATS as underdogs and 7-5 ATS as 1.5+ point dogs show resilience, while Drexel’s 8-8 ATS as favorites and 6-5-1 ATS when scoring over 69.1 points balance the scales. Scoring’s been low—the January game hit 119 points—with Drexel at 15/30 overs and Elon at 13/30, and recent trends (four of Drexel’s last five unders) leaning down.

Best Bet: Under 129.5 (-110). Elon’s 65-54 win in January showcased their 40.2%-allowing defense stifling Drexel’s 69.5 PPG offense, and with both teams rested, slow paces (Elon 69.3, Drexel 66.8 possessions) keep this tight. Simpkins and MaGee will score, but the under’s my honest best with their 119-point precedent and defensive edges.

2.) #12 Delaware vs. #5 Campbell - 2:30 PM ET (FloHoops)

The No. 12 seed Delaware Blue Hens (13-19, 5-13 CAA) face the No. 5 seed Campbell Fighting Camels (15-16, 10-8 CAA) in a CAA Tournament second-round elimination game at St. Elizabeths East Entertainment and Sports Arena in Washington, D.C. Campbell won their lone regular-season meeting this year, 96-91, on February 15 in Newark, outscoring Delaware by five points. The Blue Hens advanced with an 80-76 upset over Stony Brook in the first round yesterday, led by John Camden’s 21 points, while Campbell enters their tournament opener after a bye, coming off a 75-65 loss to Northeastern on March 1, with Laurynas Vaistaras posting 18 points. Delaware’s Camden (16.6 PPG) powers their attack, while Campbell’s Jasin Sinani (15.8 PPG) drives the Fighting Camels in this postseason battle.

Betting Insights: Campbell opens at -2.5 (-110), with a moneyline of -142, while Delaware sits at +2.5 (-110) and +120. The over/under is 145.5. Campbell’s 15-14 ATS record edges Delaware’s 14-17-1, with the Fighting Camels going 1-0 ATS vs. the Blue Hens this year and 11-7 ATS in CAA play. Delaware’s 12-13-1 ATS as underdogs and yesterday’s 4-point cover as 5-point dogs show resilience, though they’re 6-13 straight-up on the road/neutral sites. Scoring’s been high—the February game hit 187 points—with Campbell at 15/30 overs and Delaware at 16-31, and recent trends (four of Campbell’s last five overs) leaning up.

Best Bet: Over 145.5 (-110). Delaware’s 80-76 win yesterday and Campbell’s 96-91 victory in February—averaging 93.5 points combined—highlight their scoring potential. The Blue Hens’ 78.7 PPG allowed meets Campbell’s 73.2 PPG offense, and with Campbell rested and Delaware riding momentum, Camden and Sinani should keep this above the total—my honest best is the over.

3.) #10 Hampton vs. #7 Northeastern - 6:00 PM ET (FloHoops)

The No. 10 seed Hampton Pirates (16-15, 8-10 CAA) face the No. 7 seed Northeastern Huskies (17-14, 9-9 CAA) in a CAA Tournament second-round elimination game at St. Elizabeths East Entertainment and Sports Arena in Washington, D.C. The season series split on the road, with Northeastern winning 78-69 on January 30 in Hampton and Hampton taking an 84-75 victory on February 8 in Boston, decided by a one-point margin favoring Hampton overall. The Pirates enter their tournament opener after a bye, coming off an 81-71 win over William & Mary on March 1, led by Noah Farrakhan’s 22 points, while Northeastern, also after a bye, closed with a 75-65 loss to Campbell on March 1, paced by Rashad King’s 18 points. Hampton’s Farrakhan (17.8 PPG) drives their attack, while Northeastern’s King (18.4 PPG) powers the Huskies in this postseason showdown.

Betting Insights: Northeastern opens at -1.5 (-110), with a moneyline of -130, while Hampton sits at +1.5 (-110) and +108. The over/under is 135.5. Northeastern’s 12-17-1 ATS record trails Hampton’s 15-13, with each team going 1-1 ATS in their head-to-head matchups this year—Northeastern at 8-10 ATS and Hampton at 11-7 ATS in CAA play. Hampton’s 12-11 ATS as underdogs and 6-4 ATS in their last 10 boost their case, while Northeastern’s 7-10 ATS as favorites and 5-5 ATS in their last 10 show balance. Scoring’s been moderate—games hit 147 and 159 this season—with Northeastern at 17-13 overs and Hampton at 14-14, and recent trends (four of Northeastern’s last five overs) leaning up.

Best Bet: Hampton +1.5 (-110). Northeastern’s King keeps it tight, but Hampton’s 84-75 road win in February and Farrakhan’s scoring punch against a Huskies defense allowing 70.1 PPG give them the edge. The Pirates’ 11-7 CAA ATS record and 47.2% FG outpace Northeastern’s 8-10 ATS in conference—Hampton covers in a 70-68 thriller.

4.) #11 Hofstra vs. #6 Monmouth - 8:30 PM ET (FloHoops)

The No. 11 seed Hofstra Pride (15-17, 6-12 CAA) face the No. 6 seed Monmouth Hawks (12-19, 10-8 CAA) in a CAA Tournament second-round elimination game at St. Elizabeths East Entertainment and Sports Arena in Washington, D.C. Hofstra won their lone regular-season meeting this year, 75-67, on January 23 at home, outscoring Monmouth by eight points—Monmouth had won the previous matchup 74-61 on February 20, 2024, splitting their last two games. The Pride advanced with a 75-58 win over North Carolina A&T in the first round yesterday, led by Jean Aranguren’s 18 points, while Monmouth enters their tournament opener after a bye, coming off a 79-68 loss to Towson on March 1, with Abdi Bashir Jr. scoring 20 points. Hofstra’s Aranguren (14.6 PPG) drives their offense, while Monmouth’s Bashir Jr. (20.1 PPG) powers the Hawks in this postseason clash.

Betting Insights: Hofstra opens at -3.5 (-110), with a moneyline of -168, while Monmouth sits at +3.5 (-110) and +139. The over/under is 130.5. Hofstra’s 11-19-1 ATS record this season trails Monmouth’s 15-15, with the Pride going 1-0 ATS vs. the Hawks this year and 7-12 ATS in CAA play. Monmouth’s 12-11 ATS as underdogs and 6-4 ATS in their last 10 show resilience, while Hofstra’s 5-11 ATS as favorites and 2-8 ATS in their last 10 temper expectations. Scoring’s been low—the January game hit 142 points—with Hofstra at 15-16 overs and Monmouth at 14-16, and recent trends (four of Hofstra’s last five unders) leaning down.

Best Bet: Hofstra -3.5 (-110). Monmouth’s Bashir Jr. keeps it close, but Hofstra’s 75-58 win yesterday and 75-67 victory in January showcase their edge. The Pride’s 42.8% FG and Aranguren’s scoring outmatch Monmouth’s 75.7 PPG allowed, while momentum trumps a rested Hawks squad—expect a 70-64 Hofstra win, covering by 6.

Missouri Valley Tournament - Semifinal Preview

1.) #4 Belmont vs. #1 Drake - 3:30 PM ET (CBSSN)

The No. 4 seed Belmont Bruins (22-10, 13-7 MVC) face the No. 1 seed Drake Bulldogs (28-3, 17-3 MVC) in an MVC Tournament semifinal elimination game at the Enterprise Center in St. Louis, MO. Drake won their most recent regular-season meeting, 84-69, on February 21 at home, but Belmont took a 95-71 victory on December 29 in Nashville, splitting the series with a nine-point margin favoring Belmont overall. The Bruins advanced with a 76-63 win over Illinois State in the quarterfinals yesterday, led by Tyler Lundblade’s 14 points, while Drake moved on with a 70-53 rout of Southern Illinois yesterday, paced by Isaia Howard’s career-high 21 points off the bench. Belmont’s Malik Dia (16.8 PPG) drives their offense, while Drake’s Tucker DeVries (21.3 PPG) powers the Bulldogs in this postseason showdown.

Betting Insights: Drake opens at -7.5 (-110), with a moneyline of -300, while Belmont sits at +7.5 (-110) and +240. The over/under is 133.5. Drake’s 16-14-1 ATS record this season edges Belmont’s 17-15-1, with each team going 1-1 ATS in their head-to-head matchups this year—Drake at 11-11 ATS and Belmont at 13-9 ATS in MVC play. Belmont’s 10-11 ATS as underdogs and yesterday’s 13-point cover as 6-point favorites show fight, while Drake’s 13-11 ATS as favorites and 6-1 ATS in their last seven reinforce their edge. Scoring’s been moderate—games hit 153 and 166 this season—with Drake at 16-15 overs and Belmont at 14-18, and recent trends (MVC Tournament unders 8-1 this year per X posts) leaning down.

Best Bet: Under 133.5 (-110). Belmont’s 76-63 win and Drake’s 70-53 defensive clinic yesterday highlight their strengths—Drake’s top-20 defense (63.8 PPG allowed) and Belmont’s 70.0 PPG allowed. Dia and DeVries will score, but slow paces (Drake 66.8, Belmont 67.5 possessions) and the MVC’s 8-1 under trend in this tournament make the under my honest best.

2.) #11 Valparaiso vs. #2 Bradley - 5:00 PM ET (CBSSN)

The No. 11 seed Valparaiso Beacons (14-18, 6-14 MVC) face the No. 2 seed Bradley Braves (25-7, 15-5 MVC) in an MVC Tournament semifinal elimination game at the Enterprise Center in St. Louis, MO. Bradley won their most recent regular-season meeting, 76-65, on February 26 in Valparaiso, but the Beacons took a 75-74 victory on December 29 at home, splitting the series with Bradley holding a two-point edge overall. Valparaiso pulled off a stunning 64-63 upset over No. 3 Northern Iowa in the quarterfinals yesterday, led by All Wright’s 25 points, while Bradley advanced with a 70-62 win over Murray State, powered by Duke Deen’s 19 points. Valparaiso’s Wright (17.4 PPG) drives their attack, while Bradley’s Darius Hannah (12.1 PPG) anchors the Braves in this postseason showdown.

Betting Insights: Bradley opens at -8.5 (-110), with a moneyline of -375, while Valparaiso sits at +8.5 (-110) and +280. The over/under is 138.5. Bradley’s 16-14-1 ATS record this season edges Valparaiso’s 17-15-1, with each team going 1-1 ATS in their head-to-head matchups this year—Bradley at 12-9 ATS and Valparaiso at 10-11 ATS in MVC play. Valparaiso’s 11-11 ATS as underdogs and yesterday’s 1-point cover as 11-point dogs show resilience, while Bradley’s 10-9 ATS as favorites and 5-1 ATS in their last six boost their case. Scoring’s been mixed—games hit 150 and 141 this season—with Bradley at 16-15 overs and Valparaiso at 14-18, with recent games trending lower (yesterday’s totals: 127 and 132).

Best Bet: Under 138.5 (-110). Valparaiso’s 64-63 nail-biter and Bradley’s 70-62 win yesterday highlight their defensive grit—Bradley’s 69.0 PPG allowed and Valparaiso’s 75.3 PPG allowed face offenses averaging 76.1 and 72.0 PPG. Wright and Hannah will keep it competitive, but slow paces (Bradley 67.2, Valparaiso 67.5 possessions) and tight tournament play make the under my honest best bet

NEC Tournament - Semifinal Preview

1.) #3 St. Francis (PA) vs. #2 Long Island - 12:00 PM ET (ESPN+)

The No. 3 seed St. Francis (PA) Red Flash (14-17, 8-8 NEC) face the No. 2 seed Long Island University Sharks (18-12, 11-5 NEC) in an NEC Tournament semifinal elimination game at Steinberg Wellness Center in Brooklyn, NY. LIU won their most recent regular-season meeting, 64-51, on January 18 in Brooklyn, but St. Francis (PA) took a 74-64 victory on January 24 at home, splitting the series with LIU holding a three-point edge overall. The Red Flash advanced with a 58-55 win over No. 6 Wagner in the quarterfinals on Wednesday, led by Bobby Rosenberger III’s 16 points, while LIU beat No. 7 Chicago State 68-57 on Wednesday, paced by Malachi Davis’s 19 points. St. Francis (PA)’s Rosenberger III (15.2 PPG) drives their attack, while LIU’s Davis (17.9 PPG) powers the Sharks in this postseason clash.

Betting Insights: LIU opens at -5.5 (-110), with a moneyline of -245, while St. Francis (PA) sits at +5.5 (-110) and +198. The over/under is 129.5. LIU’s 18-11 ATS record this season outpaces St. Francis (PA)’s 12-16-1, with each team going 1-1 ATS in their head-to-head matchups this year—LIU at 11-5 ATS and St. Francis (PA) at 8-8 ATS in NEC play. St. Francis (PA)’s 10-11-1 ATS as underdogs and Wednesday’s 3-point cover as 3.5-point favorites show fight, while LIU’s 10-8 ATS as favorites and nine-game win streak reinforce their edge. Scoring’s been low—games hit 115 and 138 this season—with LIU at 14/29 overs and St. Francis (PA) at 14/29, and recent tournament games staying under (113 and 125 on Wednesday).

Best Bet: LIU -5.5 (-110). St. Francis (PA)’s 58-55 grinder over Wagner shows toughness, but LIU’s 68-57 win against Chicago State and nine-game streak—including a 64-51 blowout of the Red Flash—highlight their control. The Sharks’ 44.8% FG and Davis’s scoring outclass St. Francis (PA)’s 73.8 PPG allowed, while LIU’s home court seals it—expect a 68-61 LIU win, covering by 7.

2.) #4 Fairleigh Dickinson vs. #1 Central Connecticut - 2:00 PM ET (ESPN+)

The No. 4 seed Fairleigh Dickinson Knights (13-19, 8-8 NEC) face the No. 1 seed Central Connecticut State Blue Devils (24-6, 14-2 NEC) in an NEC Tournament semifinal elimination game at Detrick Gymnasium in New Britain, CT. CCSU swept the regular-season series, winning 87-66 on February 6 at home and 74-64 on January 25 in Teaneck, outscoring FDU by 31 points total. The Knights advanced with a 71-56 win over No. 5 Stonehill in the quarterfinals on Wednesday, led by Terrence Brown’s 23 points, while CCSU beat No. 8 Le Moyne 86-67 on Wednesday, paced by Jordan Jones’s 19 points. FDU’s Brown (20.6 PPG) drives their offense, while CCSU’s Jones (13.9 PPG) powers the Blue Devils in this postseason clash.

Betting Insights: CCSU opens at -9.5 (-110), with a moneyline of -450, while FDU sits at +9.5 (-110) and +340. The over/under is 139.5. CCSU’s 20-11 ATS record this season outpaces FDU’s 13-18-1, with the Blue Devils going 2-0 ATS vs. the Knights this year and 11-5 ATS in NEC play. FDU’s 11-12-1 ATS as underdogs and Wednesday’s 15-point cover as 3-point favorites show resilience, while CCSU’s 12-8 ATS as favorites and 12-game win streak reinforce their dominance. Scoring’s varied—regular-season games hit 153 and 138, with Wednesday’s totals at 127 and 153—with CCSU at 15/31 overs and FDU at 15/32.

Best Bet: CCSU -9.5 (-110). FDU’s 71-56 win over Stonehill showcases Brown’s scoring, but CCSU’s 86-67 rout of Le Moyne and 2-0 sweep—including a 21-point thrashing—prove their edge. The Blue Devils’ 47.2% FG and Jones’s consistency overpower FDU’s 74.9 PPG allowed, while CCSU’s home court and streak make this my honest best—expect the Blue Devils to cover.

OVC Tournament - Final Preview

1.) #2 SIUE vs. #1 Southeast Missouri - 9:00 PM ET (ESPNU)

The No. 2 seed SIUE Cougars (21-11, 13-7 OVC) face the No. 1 seed Southeast Missouri State Redhawks (21-11, 15-5 OVC) in the OVC Tournament championship game at the Ford Center in Evansville, IN, with an NCAA Tournament berth on the line. SEMO swept the regular-season series, winning 80-64 on December 21, 2024, in Cape Girardeau and 82-66 on February 27 in Edwardsville, outscoring SIUE by 32 points total. The Cougars advanced with a 71-69 semifinal win over No. 3 Tennessee State yesterday, led by Ray’Sean Taylor’s 24 points, while SEMO beat No. 4 Little Rock 78-59 in their semifinal yesterday, paced by Rob Martin’s 21 points. SIUE’s Taylor (19.2 PPG) drives their offense, while SEMO’s Martin (15.6 PPG) powers the Redhawks in this postseason finale.

Betting Insights: SEMO opens at -2.5 (-110), with a moneyline of -142, while SIUE sits at +2.5 (-110) and +120. The over/under is 134.5. SEMO’s 18-12-1 ATS record this season edges SIUE’s 16-13-1, with the Redhawks going 2-0 ATS vs. the Cougars this year and 13-7 ATS in OVC play. SIUE’s 11-11 ATS as underdogs and yesterday’s 2-point cover as 2-point dogs show fight, while SEMO’s 11-8 ATS as favorites and 11-1 straight-up run before their regular-season finale boost their edge. Scoring’s been moderate—regular-season games hit 144 and 148, with yesterday’s totals at 140 and 137—SEMO at 15/31 overs and SIUE at 15/30.

Best Bet: SEMO -2.5 (-110). SIUE’s 71-69 grinder against Tennessee State and Taylor’s 24 points keep them scrappy, but SEMO’s 78-59 dismantling of Little Rock and 2-0 regular season sweep by 16-point averages overpower. The Redhawks’ 45.8% FG and Martin’s scoring outmatch SIUE’s 74.8 PPG allowed—expect a 72-67 SEMO win, covering by 5.

SoCon Tournament - Quarterfinal Preview

1.) #8 VMI vs. #1 UNC Greensboro - 2:30 PM ET (ESPN+)

The No. 8 seed VMI Keydets (14-18, 7-11 SoCon) face the No. 1 seed UNC Greensboro Spartans (20-11, 13-5 SoCon) in a Southern Conference Tournament quarterfinal elimination game at Harrah’s Cherokee Center in Asheville, NC. UNC Greensboro swept the regular-season series, winning 60-57 on January 25 in Lexington and 80-54 on February 12 at home, outscoring VMI by 29 points total. The Keydets advanced with an 84-67 win over No. 9 The Citadel in the first round yesterday, led by Rickey Bradley Jr.’s 19 points, while the Spartans enter their tournament opener after a bye, coming off an 81-49 rout of Wofford on March 1, paced by Kenyon Giles’s 16 points. VMI’s Bradley Jr. (15.9 PPG) drives their attack, while UNC Greensboro’s Giles (15.7 PPG) powers the Spartans in this postseason showdown.

Betting Insights: UNC Greensboro opens at -10.5 (-110), with a moneyline of -500, while VMI sits at +10.5 (-110) and +375. The over/under is 136.5. UNC Greensboro’s 14-5 ATS record this season outpaces VMI’s 18-9-1, with the Spartans going 2-0 ATS vs. the Keydets this year and 10-2 ATS in SoCon play. VMI’s 14-8-1 ATS as underdogs and yesterday’s 17-point cover as 2-point favorites show resilience, though they’re 1-5 ATS in their last six neutral-site games. Scoring’s been mixed—regular-season games hit 117 and 134, with yesterday’s 151 total for VMI—UNC Greensboro at 12/19 overs and VMI at 15/29, tempered by UNC Greensboro’s defensive stands (49 and 54 points allowed recently).

Best Bet: UNC Greensboro -10.5 (-110). VMI’s 84-67 win over The Citadel and Bradley Jr.’s scoring keep them competitive, but UNC Greensboro’s 2-0 sweep—including a 26-point blowout—and top-20 defense (63.8 PPG allowed) overpower a Keydets team on short rest. The Spartans’ 44.4% FG and Giles’s consistency outclass VMI’s 73.7 PPG allowed—my honest best is UNC Greensboro covering, leveraging their rest and dominance.

2.) #6 Wofford vs. #3 East Tennessee State - 6:00 PM ET (ESPN+)

The No. 6 seed Wofford Terriers (16-15, 10-8 SoCon) face the No. 3 seed East Tennessee State Buccaneers (19-12, 12-6 SoCon) in a Southern Conference Tournament quarterfinal elimination game at Harrah’s Cherokee Center in Asheville, NC. The teams split the regular-season series, with Wofford winning 81-78 on January 4 at ETSU and the Buccaneers taking a 73-68 victory on February 22 in Spartanburg, decided by a two-point margin favoring ETSU overall. The Terriers advanced with a 74-64 win over No. 11 Mercer in the first round yesterday, led by Corey Tripp’s 18 points, while ETSU enters their tournament opener after a bye, coming off a 65-62 loss to Samford on March 1, paced by Quimari Peterson’s 19 points. Wofford’s Tripp (14.3 PPG) drives their attack, while ETSU’s Peterson (19.5 PPG) powers the Buccaneers in this postseason clash.

Betting Insights: ETSU opens at -1.5 (-110), with a moneyline of -134, while Wofford sits at +1.5 (-110) and +114. The over/under is 137.5. Wofford’s 12-18 ATS record this season trails ETSU’s 14-14, with each team going 1-1 ATS in their head-to-head matchups—Wofford at 8-10 ATS and ETSU at 10-8 ATS in SoCon play. Wofford’s 6-6 ATS as underdogs and yesterday’s 10-point cover as 1-point favorites show fight, while ETSU’s 9-9 ATS as favorites and 7-3 straight-up in their last 10 boost their edge. Scoring’s been moderate—regular-season games hit 159 and 141, with yesterday’s 138 total for Wofford—Wofford at 20/30 overs and ETSU at 15/29, with recent trends favoring unders for ETSU (64.8 PPG allowed in last 10).

Best Bet: Wofford +1.5 (-110). ETSU’s rest and Peterson’s scoring give them a slight edge, but Wofford’s 74-64 win yesterday and 81-78 upset in Johnson City show their grit. The Terriers’ 35.1 RPG (39th nationally) and Tripp’s clutch play match ETSU’s 34.1 RPG, while Wofford’s momentum offsets ETSU’s 42.4% FG from their last 10—my honest best is Wofford covering in a tight battle.

3.) #5 Furman vs. #4 Samford - 8:30 PM ET (ESPN+)

The No. 5 seed Furman Paladins (23-8, 11-7 SoCon) face the No. 4 seed Samford Bulldogs (22-9, 12-6 SoCon) in a Southern Conference Tournament quarterfinal elimination game at Harrah’s Cherokee Center in Asheville, NC. Furman swept the regular-season series, winning 72-70 on January 29 at home and 80-72 on February 19 in Birmingham, outscoring Samford by 10 points total. The Paladins enter their tournament opener after a bye, coming off an 85-72 loss to Chattanooga on March 1, led by Pjay Smith Jr.’s 22 points, while Samford advanced with a 70-57 win over No. 9 Mercer in the quarterfinals yesterday, paced by Rylan James’s 15 points. Furman’s Smith Jr. (16.6 PPG) drives their offense, while Samford’s Jaden Brownell (14.6 PPG) powers the Bulldogs in this postseason rematch.

Betting Insights: Samford opens at -2.5 (-110), with a moneyline of -142, while Furman sits at +2.5 (-110) and +120. The over/under is 153.5. Furman’s 14-15 ATS record this season trails Samford’s 16-13, with the Paladins going 2-0 ATS vs. the Bulldogs this year—Furman at 8-10 ATS and Samford at 10-8 ATS in SoCon play. Furman’s 8-11 ATS as underdogs and 5-1 ATS in their last six neutral-site games show grit, while Samford’s 11-10 ATS as favorites and yesterday’s 13-point cover as 10-point favorites boost their case. Scoring’s been high—regular-season games hit 142 and 152, with yesterday’s 127 total for Samford—Furman at 17/30 overs and Samford at 15/30, with recent trends favoring overs for both.

Best Bet: Furman +2.5 (-110). Samford’s 70-57 win yesterday and Brownell’s scoring keep them rolling, but Furman’s 2-0 sweep—including a road win—and rest advantage tip the scales. The Paladins’ 45.6% FG and Smith Jr.’s 35.2% from three outmatch Samford’s 73.8 PPG allowed, while Furman’s 5-1 ATS on neutral sites edges Samford’s momentum—expect a 76-74 Furman win, covering the spread.

Summit League Tournament - Semifinal Preview

1.) #5 South Dakota vs. #1 Omaha - 8:00 PM ET (CBSSN)

The No. 5 seed South Dakota Coyotes (19-13, 9-7 Summit) face the

No. 1 seed Omaha Mavericks (20-12, 13-3 Summit) in a Summit League Tournament semifinal elimination game at the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center in Sioux Falls, SD. The teams split the regular-season series: South Dakota won 91-87 on January 29, 2025, at home, and Omaha took a 93-85 victory on February 22, 2025, in Omaha, with South Dakota holding a two-point edge overall (178-176). The Coyotes advanced with an 84-76 upset over No. 4 Kansas City in the quarterfinals yesterday, led by Quandre Bullock’s 31 points, while Omaha beat No. 8 North Dakota State 87-66 yesterday, paced by Tony Osburn’s 22 points. South Dakota’s Bullock (18.5 PPG) drives their attack, while Omaha’s Osburn (17.8 PPG) powers the Mavericks in this postseason clash.

Betting Insights: Omaha opens at -4.5 (-110), with a moneyline of -198, while South Dakota sits at +4.5 (-110) and +164. The over/under is 165.5. Omaha’s 17-12-1 ATS record this season outpaces South Dakota’s 15-15-1, with each team going 1-1 ATS vs. the other this year and Omaha at 12-5 ATS in Summit play. South Dakota’s 13-11-1 ATS as underdogs and yesterday’s 8-point cover as 2.5-point dogs show resilience, while Omaha’s 12-8 ATS as favorites and nine-game win streak boost their edge. Scoring’s been high—regular-season games hit 178 and 178, with yesterday’s totals at 160 and 153—Omaha at 15/30 overs and South Dakota at 15/31.

Best Bet: Omaha -4.5 (-110). South Dakota’s 84-76 upset over Kansas City and Bullock’s 31-point outburst make them dangerous, but Omaha’s 87-66 rout of NDSU and home-like edge in Sioux Falls tip the scales. The Mavericks’ 47.8% FG and Osburn’s scoring outpace South Dakota’s 78.9 PPG allowed, while Omaha’s current form trumps the Coyotes’ split-series grit—my honest best is the Mavericks covering.

2.) #6 North Dakota vs. #2 St. Thomas - 10:30 PM ET (CBSSN)

The No. 6 seed North Dakota Fighting Hawks (12-20, 5-11 Summit) face the No. 2 seed St. Thomas Tommies (23-9, 12-4 Summit) in a Summit League Tournament semifinal elimination game at the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center in Sioux Falls, SD. St. Thomas swept the regular-season series, winning 88-80 on January 4, 2025, at home and 86-71 on February 27, 2025, in Grand Forks, outscoring North Dakota by 23 points total. The Fighting Hawks advanced with a 74-64 upset over No. 3 South Dakota State in the quarterfinals yesterday, led by Treysen Eaglestaff’s 20 points, while St. Thomas beat No. 7 Denver 88-73 yesterday, paced by Miles Barnstable’s 25 points. North Dakota’s Eaglestaff (19.3 PPG) drives their offense, while St. Thomas’s Barnstable (14.8 PPG) powers the Tommies in this postseason clash.

Betting Insights: St. Thomas opens at -7.5 (-108), with a moneyline of -310, while North Dakota sits at +7.5 (-112) and +245. The over/under is 157.5. St. Thomas’s 16-15 ATS record this season edges North Dakota’s 15-16, with the Tommies going 2-0 ATS vs. the Fighting Hawks this year and 9-8 ATS in Summit play. North Dakota’s 14-12 ATS as underdogs and yesterday’s 10-point cover as 5.5-point dogs show resilience, while St. Thomas’s 6-5 ATS as 7.5+ point favorites and top-10 offensive field goal percentage (49.5%) boost their case. Scoring’s been high—regular-season games hit 168 and 157, with yesterday’s totals at 138 and 161—St. Thomas at 17/31 overs and North Dakota at 15/31.

Best Bet: St. Thomas -7.5 (-108). North Dakota’s 74-64 upset over SDSU and Eaglestaff’s scoring keep them scrappy, but St. Thomas’s 88-73 rout of Denver and 2-0 sweep—including a 15-point road win—overpower. The Tommies’ 108.6 points per 100 possessions (3rd nationally) and Barnstable’s efficiency outmatch North Dakota’s 99.2 points allowed per 100 possessions, while St. Thomas’s rest advantage over a back-to-back Hawks squad seals it—expect an 85-75 St. Thomas win, covering by 10.

Sun Belt Conference Tournament - Quarterfinal Preview

1.) #5 Marshall vs. #4 Arkansas State - 6:30 PM ET (ESPN+)

The No. 5 seed Marshall Thundering Herd (20-12, 12-6 Sun Belt) face the No. 4 seed Arkansas State Red Wolves (22-9, 13-5 Sun Belt) in a Sun Belt Conference Tournament quarterfinal elimination game at the Pensacola Bay Center in Pensacola, FL. Marshall won their only regular-season meeting this year, 77-72, on February 5 at home, overcoming a double-digit deficit with Nate Martin’s 18 points and 14 rebounds. The Thundering Herd advanced with a 79-76 win over No. 12 Georgia State in the fourth round yesterday, led by Dezayne Mingo’s 19 points, while Arkansas State enters their tournament opener after a bye, coming off a 94-67 rout of UL Monroe on February 28, paced by Taryn Todd’s 15 points. Marshall’s Obinna Anochili-Killen (14.0 PPG) drives their attack, while Arkansas State’s Todd (15.0 PPG) powers the Red Wolves in this postseason rematch.

Betting Insights: Arkansas State opens at -8.5 (-110), with a moneyline of -375, while Marshall sits at +8.5 (-110) and +285. The over/under is 149.5. Arkansas State’s 18-11-1 ATS record edges Marshall’s 17-14, with Marshall going 1-0 ATS vs. the Red Wolves this year—Arkansas State at 11-7 ATS and Marshall at 11-8 ATS in Sun Belt play. Marshall’s 12-11 ATS as underdogs and yesterday’s 3-point cover as 1.5-point favorites show resilience, while Arkansas State’s 11-8 ATS as favorites and 11-3 ATS in their last 14 conference games boost their case. Scoring’s been moderate—the February game hit 149, with yesterday’s 155 total for Marshall—Arkansas State at 15/30 overs and Marshall at 15/31.

Best Bet: Marshall +8.5 (-110). Arkansas State’s -8.5 reflects their 94-67 finale and rest advantage, but Marshall’s 77-72 comeback win in February and 79-76 grinder yesterday keep this close. The Thundering Herd’s 47 rebounds vs. Georgia State challenge Arkansas State’s 38.4 RPG, and Anochili-Killen’s versatility matches Todd’s output—my honest best is Marshall covering, as the spread feels inflated given their head-to-head fight.

2.) #10 Old Dominion vs. #3 Troy - 9:00 PM ET (ESPN+)

The No. 10 seed Old Dominion Monarchs (15-19, 11-10 Sun Belt) face the No. 3 seed Troy Trojans (20-10, 13-5 Sun Belt) in a Sun Belt Conference Tournament quarterfinal elimination game at the Pensacola Bay Center in Pensacola, FL. This marks the first meeting between the two this season—Old Dominion didn’t face Troy during the regular season due to the Sun Belt’s scheduling, but they’ve won four straight entering this matchup. The Monarchs advanced with a 61-56 win over No. 6 Appalachian State in the fourth round yesterday, led by Sean Durugordon’s 21 points and 10 rebounds, while Troy enters their tournament opener after a bye, coming off a 76-71 loss to South Alabama on February 28, paced by Tayton Conerway’s 14 points. Old Dominion’s Durugordon (15.7 PPG, 8.9 RPG) drives their attack, while Troy’s Conerway (13.6 PPG, 3.0 SPG) powers the Trojans in this postseason showdown.

Betting Insights: Troy opens at -11.5 (-110), with a moneyline of -650, while Old Dominion sits at +11.5 (-110) and +450. The over/under is 130.5. Troy’s 17-10 ATS record this season outpaces Old Dominion’s 16-15, with the Trojans at 11-7 ATS in Sun Belt play and 6-1 ATS when favored by 10.5 or more. Old Dominion’s 8-10 ATS as underdogs and yesterday’s 5-point cover as 2-point dogs show resilience, bolstered by a 4-0 ATS run in their last four, though they’re 2-3 ATS as 10.5+ point underdogs. Scoring leans low—Old Dominion averages 68.6 PPG over their last 10, Troy 73.2 PPG—with Troy at 16/27 overs and Old Dominion at 21/31, and yesterday’s 117 total for Old Dominion trending under this line.

Best Bet: Old Dominion +11.5 (-110). Troy’s -11.5 reflects their bye and Conerway’s disruptive play, but Old Dominion’s 61-56 defensive stand yesterday and four-game win streak—including upsets over Louisiana and App State—keep this tight. Durugordon’s 44.8% FG and 34.2 RPG edge challenge Troy’s 43.6% FG, while the Monarchs’ momentum offsets fatigue—my honest best is Old Dominion covering the wider spread.

WCC Tournament - 1st Round Preview

1.) #9 Pepperdine vs. #2 Oregon State - 9:00 PM ET (ESPN+)

The No. 9 seed Pepperdine Waves (11-21, 4-14 WCC) face the No. 2 seed Oregon State Beavers (20-11, 10-8 WCC) in a West Coast Conference Tournament quarterfinal elimination game at Orleans Arena in Las Vegas, NV. Oregon State swept the regular-season series, winning 83-63 on January 23 at home and 84-78 on February 20 in Malibu, outscoring Pepperdine by 26 points total. The Waves advanced with an 85-72 comeback win over No. 8 Portland in the third round yesterday—erasing a 14-point deficit with a 46-point surge in the final 12 minutes—led by Moe Odum’s 31 points and 11 assists, while Oregon State enters their tournament opener after a bye, coming off a 79-65 win over Pacific on February 26, paced by Michael Rataj’s 17 points. Pepperdine’s Odum (12.6 PPG, 7.4 APG) drives their attack, while Oregon State’s Rataj (17.1 PPG, 7.4 RPG) powers the Beavers in this postseason clash.

Betting Insights: Oregon State opens at -11.5 (-110), with a moneyline of -650, while Pepperdine sits at +11.5 (-110) and +450. The over/under is 146.5. Oregon State’s 19-11 ATS record this season outpaces Pepperdine’s 14-17, with the Beavers going 2-0 ATS vs. the Waves this year and 11-6 ATS in WCC play. Pepperdine’s 11-14 ATS as underdogs and yesterday’s 13-point cover as 1.5-point dogs show fight, though they’re 3-10 ATS in their last 13 as 10+ point underdogs per posts on X. Scoring’s been varied—regular-season games hit 146 and 162, with yesterday’s 157 total for Pepperdine—Oregon State at 18/28 overs and Pepperdine at 14/28, with recent trends favoring overs (Pepperdine 5-2 in last seven).

Best Bet: Oregon State -11.5 (-110). Pepperdine’s 85-72 rally yesterday and Odum’s heroics are impressive, but Oregon State’s 2-0 sweep—including a 20-point blowout—and rest advantage overpower a Waves team playing back-to-back. The Beavers’ 48.5% FG (24th nationally) and Rataj’s scoring outmatch Pepperdine’s 77.0 PPG allowed, while Oregon State’s 19-11 ATS record edges Pepperdine’s fatigue—my honest best is the Beavers covering.

2.) #7 LMU vs. #6 Washington State - 11:30 PM ET (ESPN+)

The No. 7 seed Loyola Marymount Lions (17-14, 8-10 WCC) face the No. 6 seed Washington State Cougars (18-13, 8-10 WCC) in a West Coast Conference Tournament third-round elimination game at Orleans Arena in Las Vegas, NV. Washington State won their lone regular-season meeting this year, 73-59, on December 30, 2024, in Spokane, outscoring LMU by 14 points behind Nate Calmese’s 20 points. The Lions advanced with a 100-74 blowout over No. 11 San Diego in the second round yesterday, led by Will Johnston’s 27 points and eight assists, while the Cougars enter their tournament opener after a bye, coming off a 90-83 win over Pepperdine on February 26, paced by Ethan Price’s 15 points. LMU’s Johnston (11.8 PPG, 3.0 APG) drives their offense, while Washington State’s Calmese (15.3 PPG) powers the Cougars in this postseason showdown.

Betting Insights: Washington State opens at -1.5 (-110), with a moneyline of -125, while LMU sits at +1.5 (-110) and +104. The over/under is 149.5. Washington State’s 15-16 ATS record this season edges LMU’s 14-16, with the Cougars going 1-0 ATS vs. the Lions this year and 7-11 ATS in WCC play. LMU’s 7-8 ATS as 1.5+ point underdogs and yesterday’s 26-point cover as 8.5-point favorites show resilience, while Washington State’s 11-7 ATS as favorites and 8-6 ATS at home (though neutral here) balance the scales. Scoring’s been high—December’s game hit 132, with yesterday’s 174 total for LMU—Washington State at 20/31 overs and LMU at 14/30, with recent trends (LMU 5-2 overs in last seven) pushing up.

Best Bet: Over 149.5 (-110). LMU’s 100-74 explosion yesterday and Washington State’s 90-83 win last outing signal offense—LMU’s 63.2% FG yesterday meets Washington State’s 78.5 PPG (66th nationally). The Cougars’ 97.1 points allowed per 100 possessions (284th per KenPom) and LMU’s pace (68.2 possessions) exploit each other’s defenses, while Johnston and Calmese should trade buckets—my honest best is the over, expecting a high-scoring affair.