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]]>We take a trip back down memory lane 40 years to 1985, when the tournament was expanded to 64 teams and Villanova upset Georgetown and prevented a repeat title. Villanova shot nearly 79 percent from the field, something that would never happen in future title games since that was the final NCAA tourney played without a shot clock.
Here are the 10 most shocking moments of the big dance over the last 40 years.
UNLV Fails To Repeat
After the defending champs from Nevada-Las Vegas defeated Arkansas down in Fayetteville in a regular season showdown, the 1990-91 UNLV team looked unbeatable. It ran into a confident Duke team in the national semifinals, however, that it walloped the year before in the 1990 title game. Duke pulled off the biggest upset of the tournament in the modern era of seeding teams, and reinforced the notion anything can happen in a one-game setting. Duke was plenty better than it was the year before and perhaps UNLV was not as good as we thought in real time. The Rebels didn’t have a real back-up point guard to Greg Anthony (who fouled out vs. Duke) and didn’t have great depth without the services of Ed O’Bannon, who didn’t sign a Letter-of-Intent locking him into UNLV and instead went to UCLA, where he didn’t play his freshman season anyway because of an ACL injury.
Anti-Duke Sentiment Reaches A Ferver Pitch
After beating UNLV in 1991 and repeating as champions in 1992 over Michigan’s FAB 5, Duke's Christian Laettner, the first player to appear in four Final Fours, became the most hated player in NCAA history and progressively that hatred for Duke built up after Laettner moved on to the NBA following the 1991-92 season. Basically, many fans didn’t like Duke because of their success and the perceived notion it got the benefit of referee calls. Never was that ani-Duke sentiment stronger than it was in 2000-2001, when Duke defeated Maryland in the semifinals and Arizona in the championship at the Metrodome in Minneapolis. All the neutral crowd there heavily booed calls that went against Maryland. It was very noticeable and almost an embarrassing moment for the NCAA Tournament. Maryland coach Gary Williams was visibly upset, and there was a few non-calls vs. point guard Jason Gardner that really hurt Arizona in the title game. That fever pitch died down after that even though it occasionally flared up, but if it would have got any worse than 2001 it could have been a major turn off for fans of March Madness.
Chris Webber’s Timeout
Michigan’s FAB 5 didn’t play great against Duke as freshmen in the 1992 NCAA title game, but the Wolverines were a much better team in 1992-93. Michigan took on North Carolina in the title game and it came down to the wire at the Louisiana Superdome. Webber, Michigan’s best player, scored on an offensive rebound put back as Michigan trialed by one with under 40 seconds to go. North Carolina’s Pat Sullivan shot free throws with 20 seconds remaining, and missed the second. Michigan didn’t have any timeouts and Webber tried to outlet the rebound, but traveled right in front of the Carolina bench and it wasn't called. Already panicking, he started dribbling towards the Michigan bench and trialing by two, called a timeout his team didn’t have. It was a crushing moment for him, FAB 5 fans and youth basketball players who looked up to the trend-setting team. That Michigan team had ton of influence, even though its back-to-back championship appearances were later vacated by the NCAA. The timeout is also a painful reminder that the FAB 5 failed to win a national title or a Big Ten title.
Tyus Edney’s Mad Dash
Remember when Ed O’Bannon, the nation’s top recruit in 1990, missed his freshman year at UCLA? That meant he was eligible for the 1994-95 season as a redshirt senior and he made the most of it. UCLA was upset by Tulsa in the 1994 tournament and O’Bannon already knew he was coming back to school and on a senior season mission. UCLA was on the ropes in the second round vs. Missouri, trailing by one point when senior point guard Tyus Edney went the length of the court in 4.8 seconds and coverted a running lay-up to give UCLA a 75-74 win over Missouri. It was one of those tourney moments where fans will always remember where they were or what they were doing when it happened. After that game, it seemed UCLA was a team of destiny and one got the feeling the Bruins were likely to win it all. They did over defending champion Arkansas with O’Bannon leading the way, 89-78. Ironically, Edney did not play in the title game because of a wrist injury and it remains UCLA only NCAA title of the past 50 years.
Bill Self Beats The Odds
Kansas winning the 2022 NCAA title over North Carolina, 72-69, was a big moment for Blue Blood basketball and also for Kansas’ head coach. If you recall, Kansas’ program was at the center of the 2017–18 basketball corruption scandal that involved many schools associated with sportswear giant Adidas, plus some other schools. The FBI was involved and announced the arrest of 10 individuals associated with the sport, including four well-known assistant coaches. Self escaped with his job in-tact, as did Arizona’s Sean Miller, and Kansas’ title in 2022 highlighted how no one person is bigger than the sport, how the train continues to roll down the track and how mundane many NCAA regulations are. Much of the public sentiment surrounding these 10 individuals was the group did not deserve federal charges, even though a majority felt there was some punishment due to breaking of NCAA regulations (although not so much law breaking). Kansas’ title highlighted two main things that came out of the curruption scandal. One, the FBI and the media never had the smoking gun that would have made the general public be concerned about what was going on behind closed doors and two, he public really doesn’t care if basketball players get compensated for their abilities or for potential Name, Image, Likeness (NIL) value.
Bo Ryan Knocks Off Big Blue Nation
In the 2014-15, Kentucky entered the Final Four riding a 38-0 record with a star-studded team filled with McDonald’s All-Americans and five-star recruits, including freshman Karl-Anthony-Townes. Wisconsin had a terrific team led by Sam Dekker, but not one expected it to beat the Wildcats. Bo Ryan’s boys pulled off the upset, 71-64, to end the Wildcats’ season at 38-1. The 38 wins is tied with the 2012 Kentucky team for the most wins in men’s DI history. Duke went on to win the fifth and final title of the Mike Krzyzewski era over Wisconsin, but the upset highlighted how having star-studded teams or the best recruiting classes in the one-and-done era didn’t always mean success in the NCAA Tournament. The 2012 title is the only one for Kentucky coach John Calipari despite having recruiting classes over the past 15 years that are unparellel in the history of the sport.
Kris Jenkins’ 3-Pointer Beats Carolina
In a terrific-played title game, Villanova defeated North Carolina, 77-74, in the 2016 final on a buzzer-beating 3-pointer by forward Kris Jenkins. Jenkins took the ball out of bounds and trailed the play and made a terrific clutch shot to give coach Jay Wright his first of two NCAA titles as coach of the Wildcats. Jenkins’ shot and the game highlighted two things. One, in the era of social media, coaches decisions are overly-criticized and over analyzed as fans and pundits pondered how the Tar Heels should have defended the play. (They didn’t pressure the inbounder Jenkins). Two, it highlighted that there was terrific basketball still being played despite the lack of star power caused by so many players with college eligibility no longer part of the playing field following Kevin Garnett opening up the prep-to-pro floodgates in 1995. The talent level has never been the same since KG's decision, but the college game remains strong, nonetheless.
Derek Anderson’s Free Throws
During the 1997 Final Four, Kentucky’s Derek Anderson shot two foul shots in the Wildcats’ semifinal victory over Minnesota. Anderson had tore his ACL in January and would be unable to play, unless there was a technical foul shot situation. Kentucky went on to lose the title game to Arizona, 84-79, in overtime. Kentucky’s 1996 team is the best one we’ve seen in the past 40 years, and perhaps if Anderson wasn’t injured Kentucky would have won three straight NCAA titles. Most of the reserves on the 1996 team made up the core of the 1998 title-winning team. The 1996 team was that deep and good, and Anderson’s free throws are a reminder Arizona is the last team in the West Region to win the NCAA title.
Danny and The Miracles
Sometimes a star can carry a team, but it wasn’t probable Kansas would win the 1988 NCAA title. The Jayhawks has the best player in the country in senior forward Danny Manning, but they were playing a juggernaut in Oklahoma, which was heavily favored to win over its Big Eight Conference rival in the title game. After all, the Sooners averaged over 102 points per game and beat Kansas by eight points twice during the regular season. All that didn’t matter in the title game, as Manning capped off a memorable six-game run with 31 points and 18 rebounds. Most fans don’t know Kansas’ other four starters, but it was a reminder that sometimes the best high school recruits eventually make all the difference in the world and recruiting is the bloodline of the sport. Manning was a three-time all-American and led Kansas to the Final Four as a sophomore in 1986. Head coach Larry Brown shrewdly hired his father, Ed Manning, to the Kansas staff while his son was a rising high school senior and it paid off. Manning’s performance is a reminder of what it takes to win at the highest level.
UConn Dominance
It’s not easy to win six games in a row. Many great coaches have never been to a NCAA Final Four, much less win the whole thing. UConn won three NCAA titles under the guidance of Hall of Fame coach Jim Calhoun. The Huskies won their fourth title under first year coach Kevin Ollie in 2014 and are now dominant under coach Danny Hurley. UConn won the 2023 title in dominant fashion, winning every game by double-digits and covering the point spread in each game. Entering this year’s Elite 8 game versus Illinois, the top seeded Huskies are 9-0 vs. the spread in the last two tournaments. How great is this UConn team? It doesn’t matter. It only has to be better than who is in front of them and so far Hurley’s bunch has been much better. Some pundits have been trying to compare this team to some of the all-time great teams or even how it may do against a NBA team. The NBA thing is laughable, as we’re not sure this year’s UConn team or last year’s would last the first weekend of an all-time seeded NCAA Tournament involving any eligible team. Teams from yesteryear just had more older, NBA-bound talent than teams of the past 20 years. As we said, that doesn’t matter as March Madness is as popular as ever. Bottom line is, UConn is that program many NCAA basketball fans think their program is.
Ronnie Flores is the national Grassroots editor of www.ebooksnet.com. He can be reached at?[email protected]. Don't forget to follow him on Twitter:?@RonMFlores
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]]>The post 2023 Final Four Betting Odds: NCAA Tournament Money Line, Spreads, and Championship Odds. appeared first on www.ebooksnet.com.
]]>UConn Huskies: -125 (Clear favorites among online betting sites)
Miami Hurricanes: +450
San Diego State Aztecs: +400
Florida Atlantic Owls: +650
UConn Huskies: +2500
Miami Hurricanes: +7500
San Diego State Aztecs: +10000
Florida Atlantic Owls: +13000
The Connecticut Huskies have not been to a final four since 2014, in which they won the NCAA National Championship against Kentucky. Connecticut has 36 tournament appearances, 6 Final Fours, and 4 Championships. They Started the tournament at +2500 and?are coming off an impressive blow-out win against The Gonzaga Bulldogs, 82-54. UConn has covered the spread, and the money line, in all four games of the NCAA Tournament. UConn respectively held Saint Mary’s and Gonzaga to under 56 points each and hit the under those games.
Strengths: The UConn Huskies rank 7th in the nation in rebounds per game, with 29.9 per game. Led by Forward Adama Sanogo, Connecticut is an excellent defensive team. The Huskies held Gonzaga to 54 points, a team that ranked 1st in points scored. In addition, they held Saint Mary’s to 55 points, and they are averaging 59.3 opponent’s points-per game in this year’s NCAA Tournament. Sanogo is a glass cleaner, who has been an unstoppable force on both ends of the ball. This team has many talents and ranks 7th in the nation with an offensive rating of 116.7. UConn is a inside team that dominates in the second half.
Weaknesses: The UConn Huskies turn the ball over a lot, including 48 times in the NCAA Tournament. Dan Hurley and the Huskies need to find a way to limit turnovers, and not allow opponents to get to the line as frequently as they do. UConn ranks 317th in the league, allowing teams to get to the line on average 15 points per game.
This is the Miami Hurricanes first ever trip to the NCAA Tournament Final Four. They entered the NCAA Tournament +7500, are coming off an 88-81 win over Texas. Led by Head Coach Jim Larranaga, the Hurricanes have covered the spread, and the money line, in all four games of the NCAA Tournament. In addition, three of their last four games have hit the Over. The Hurricanes are averaging 81.3 points-per game and are extremely efficient on the offensive end.
Strengths: The Miami Hurricanes rank 21st in the nation in points-per game, with 79.6. This is a Hurricanes team that can score efficiently from anywhere on the court. Miami ranks 42nd in three-point percentage at 36.9. Led by Guards Isaiah Wong, Jordan Miller, Nijel Pack, and Norchad Omier, the Hurricanes are top 14th in field goal percentage at 48.4. Miami is shooting an efficient 78 percent from the line, which ranks top 12 in the Nation. This is a team that can cook up beyond the three, can attack inside, and scores anywhere. It will be interesting to see how the Hurricanes matchup against the Huskies defense. On another note, this team knocked off a #1 seed Houston, and #2 seed Texas.
Weaknesses: Although Miami is an offensive powerhouse, they lack defense compared to teams like UConn and San Diego State. They have allowed an average of 70.3 points per game per opponents in the NCAA Tournament. In fact, Miami ranks 236th in the Nation in points allowed at 71.9. It’s important to say, numbers can be deceiving. The Hurricanes played hard against Drake, holding the Bulldogs to 29.2 percent shooting from the three-point. Furthermore, Miami held Indiana to 69 points scored, and 32 percent from the three, and 41.3 percent from the field.
This is the San Diego State Aztecs first ever trip to the NCAA Tournament Final Four. However, San Diego State has been kicked out of the first round of the last two NCAA Tournaments. They entered the NCAA Tournament +10000, and they are coming off an incredible win against Creighton, 57-56. In addition, the Aztecs have covered the spread, and the money line, in all four games of the NCAA Tournament.
Strengths: San Diego is a 5th seed that may have been overlooked this tournament. The Aztecs rank 25th in the nation, allowing an average of 62.9 points per game. They are a tough team physically, and are allowing an average of 57.3 opponents points per game in this years March Madness Tournament. In addition, they held Creighton, a team who’s fantastic offensively, to 63 points per game, and Alabama to 64 points per game. It’s important to note this Aztecs team knocked off the #1 seed Alabama, who was considered one of the favorites to win this year’s NCAA Tournament. San Diego State has hit the under in their last 10 games.
Weaknesses: Although the Aztecs are a physical team that plays incredible defense, they rank 183rd in points-per game at 71.5, and rank 153rd in three-point shooting at 34.7 percent. Guard Matt Bradley is the only player to average double digits in points, and they only shoot 44.1 percent from the field. They rank 86th in the Nation in rebounds and will rely heavily on their defense.
This is the Florida Atlantic Owls first ever trip to the NCAA Tournament Final Four. Their only NCAA Tournament appearance came in the 2001-2002 season, where they got kicked out in the first round. They entered the tournament with March Madness betting lines of +13000, and they are coming off an exhilarating win against Kansas State, 79-76. In addition, the Owls have covered the spread in three of their four Tournament games, and the money line in all four. It’s important to note FAU knocked off one of the top defensive teams, Tennessee, 62-55 in the Sweet 16.
Strengths: Don’t let that 9th seed fool you. FAU has shown every reason to be in the Final Four. This team can hoop, especially from, an offensive standpoint. The Owls rank 37th in the nation in points-per game at 78. In addition, they are an efficient passing team, especially with cuts. They might not be the #1 team beyond the arc, however, they hit their three-point shots when it counts. Speaking of defense, FAU ranks 45th in the nation in opponents points per game at 65.1. In addition, they are ranked 18th in opponent field goal percentage at 40.2 percent.
Weaknesses: FAU has shown to be a competitive team, with the right amount of balance on both ends of the ball. They are only team that hasn’t beaten a #1 or #2 seed, however, they doesn’t mean we should count them out. Although they have point-differential of +12.8, their biggest point differential came against Fairleigh Dickinson at 8 points. Both wins against Memphis, and Kansas State were decided by less than 5 points.
For More Betting Info & Game Predictions, Follow us at @BallislifeBets
Sara Jane is a full-time content creator, focusing on both college basketball, the NBA, NFL, and writer of www.ebooksnet.com. Don’t forget to follow her on Twitter: @GGirlSports
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]]>The post In the Paint: NCAA Cinderellas & Heavyweights, SDSU, Bronny at McDAAG, & More appeared first on www.ebooksnet.com.
]]>On Episode 158 of the Ballislife In The Paint Show, hosts Ronnie Flores, Ani Umana and Chelsea Hopkins go in on March Madness, from the incredible Cinderella stories on the men's side to the heavyweight battles on the women's side, and get some 2023 McDonald's All-American Game insight from a special guest.
The ITP crew briefly touch on how mass shootings barely register in light of the latest casualties and how guns are now children's No. 1 threat. The crew also touch upcoming pods, including the WNBA Preview, slated for April 11.
Grant Rice, the coach of Bishop Gorman (Las Vegas) and the West Coach in the McDonald's All-American Game, is the special guest with some insight on his club. Rice talks about the competitive nature of Ron Holland of Duncanville (Texas), the impact of Jared McCain of Centennial (Corona, Calif.) and how the sons of NBA players, Andrej Stojakovic of Jesuit (Carmichael, Calif.) and Bronny James of Sierra Canyon (Chatsworth, Calif.) are faring. Rice talks about James' play and fitting in with his McDonald's teammates. Should Bronny be talking to the media?
Ron and Ani break down their insights from scouts and contacts in Houston and how the East is the favorite in Tuesday night's game. Will the game action play out that way?
Speaking of Houston, the ITP crew break down the miraculous run of San Diego State to the Final Four. Chelsea, a former point guard for the Aztecs, gives his insight on the men's program and his personal take on SDSU head coach Brian Dutcher. Ron and Chelsea also talk about one of the breakout players in this year's NCAA Tournament: SDSU point guard Darrion Trammel, who was twice passed over for scholarships before heading to a JUCO before landing at Seattle University.
Ron also breaks down his other top breakout performer, Miami's Jordan Miller, a transfer from George Mason who was not well known nationally. Chelsea and Ani talk about the play of KSU's Marquis Nowell, arguably the top individual of the tourney who led K-State to the Elite 8, while Ani dishes on two more top performers: guard Jordan Hawkins of UCONN and Sir'Jabari Rice, a Texas native who spent five seasons at New Mexico St. before helping the Longhorns reach the Elite 8.
Has the NCAA men's basketball landscape changed forever with the portal and older players, or will the cycle reverse itself once again in a few years? Ani gives his insight.
The ITP crew also gives their Final Four predictions!
Chelsea breaks down the W Final Four, which is a heavyweight affair with unbeaten South Carolina going for it all. Can No. 2 seed Iowa upset the Gamecocks? In the other semi, it's No. 1 seed Virginia Tech vs. No. 3 seed LSU.
Is the Iowa-SC game the most anticipated W semifinal ever? Chelsea breaks it down plus gives insight on two more players you should know: LSU's double-double machine Angel Reese and V-Tech's Georgia Amoore.
The ITP crew offers some terrific insight on the MCDAAG and both Final Fours, so make sure to tune in to Episode 158 from start to finish!
(0:00) - Intro
(1:33) - Mass Shooting in America: Going To Happen Again!
(5:09) - Ballislife A-A Game (5/6) & Upcoming Pods
(5:35) - Chelsea’s Hot Take on SDSU Final Four Run
(8:47) - Grant Rice (West McDonald’s A-A Coach) Interview
(16:39) - More McDAAG Insight From ITP Crew
(23:42) - Bronny James at McDAAG: Fitting In & Expectations vs. Reality
(31:50) - No Mickey D's in Final Four: New Era or Cycle?
(37:40) - Are Recruiting Labels (HM, MM, LM) Relevant Anymore?
(41:33) - Chelsea’s In-Depth Insight on SDSU & Coach Dutcher
(48:42) - Final Four Predictions
(55:54) - Ron’s and Ani’s Dish on Amari Bailey & UCLA’s Injuries
(1:02:12) - ITP Crew’s Tourney Breakout Players
(1:10:18) - Chelsea’s Dish on W March Madness
(1:19:40) - BIL Podcast Network Shoout-Outs & ITP Schedule
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]]>The post Oral Roberts V. Duke: Betting Odds|NCAA Tournament Round of 64 appeared first on www.ebooksnet.com.
]]>*All lines are taken from Draft Kings*
Duke: -265
Oral Roberts: +225
Over: -110
Under: -110
Duke: -6 (-115)
Oral Roberts: + 6 (-115)
The Duke Blue Devils are without their head coach of 42 years, Mike Krzyzewski. This season was a big test for the Blue Devils, who played under first year head coach, Jon Scheyer. Scheyer was previously an assistant to Coach K from 2014-2022 and is familiar with the system and school. Duke has FIVE National Championships in school history, and is under pressure to continue the winning tradition with a new head coach. Duke has a similar record last year, and lost to UNC 81-77 in the final four. Before New Years Day, Dukes record was 11-3. Since the start of 2023, the Blue Devils finished with a second half record of 10-2, and won their last 9 games in a row. Duke had loses to high ranked teams, such as Kansas (69-64), Purdue (75-56), Miami (81-59), and Virginia (69-92 in OT). They redeemed themselves in the second half of the season, with wins against Virginia, Miami, and OSU. Lead by Freshman Center Kyle Filipowski, and Junior Guard Jeremy Roach, Duke had the 15th hardest strength in schedule, according to CBS. Duke is 4-4 against Top 25 teams this season. Duke has tournament experience, and this will be their 26th NCAA Tournament appearance in 27th Tournaments. Duke may average only 72 points, however, they are extremely efficient on the defensive end, especially in rebounding. Duke is hot at the right time and could make it far in this year’s tournament.
Could Oral Roberts be the Cinderella team we are all waiting for this season? We all remember St. Peters last year, and Oral Roberts could be THAT team. Last season, the Golden Eagles did not make it into the tourney, and this team is proving their NCAA tournament Regional Semifinal loss in 2021 was NOT an upset. According to ESPN, at least one No. 12 seed has won against a No. 5 Seed in 32 of the last 37 tournaments. In this case, it could absolutely be Oral Roberts. This team has far impressed this season, landing in the top 5 in points differential, and Blocks. Although the Golden Eagles were blown out by Houston 83-45 week 3, they did not have a single loss in their conference. To be fair, Oral Roberts had the 179th strength in schedule, and plays in a weak Summit division. Only South Dakota State and North Dakota State were the only other teams in the conference above .500. Oral Roberts doesn’t have as much experience as Duke against top 25 teams, going 0-1 this season. The Golden Eagles are coming off a 17-game win streak, and it is certainly hard to ignore that. This is a team that’s very efficient on both sides of the ball, can shoot well and thanks to their star Max Abmas and Connor Vanover, this team has offensive and defensive talents. Shout out to head coach Paul Mills, who led the Golden Eagles to their FIRST ever 30th win season.
None
Oral Roberts
None
Freshman Center Kyle Filipowski has been a pleasant surprise this season. Duke has become one of the best rebounding teams, thanks for Kyle. The center is always there for offensive rebounding, especially when Duke misses mid-range and 3-point shots. He provides that interior defense that is often a factor in these tournaments. He’s leading the team in points with 15.4 and rebounds with 9, nearly averaging a double-double. He can occasionally shoot 3’s when necessary. Kyle can also score inside the paint and make quality passes. The 7- footer was elite against Virginia for the ACC Championship. He finished the night with a double-double, which was #15 on the year for the Freshman.
Junior Jeremy Roach has been another staple of this team, averaging 13.3 points per game. He is not the biggest 3-point threat, averaging 34.1 percent from the arc. Roach has a solid free throw percentage, and shot 42 percent from field goal range this year. In the ACC Championship against Duke, Roach contributed 23 points on 7-12, and was 2-2 from the 3-point line.
Senior guard Max Abmas has been the star of this team. Not only did he shoot 44 percent from the field goal range this season, he is 7th in the nation in points per game with 22.2. He averages 4-5 rebounds a game, along with 4 assists. His 3-point percentage has been down from previous years, however, he knows how to get to the free throw line, and make quick buckets. In their last game over NDSU, he contributed 26 points on 7-15, and was 9-10 from the line. However, he was cold from beyond the arc, shooting 37.5 %. In their only game against Houston, he did struggle, shooting 1-13, 1-9 from the 3-point, with 3 points.
Senior Center Connor Vanover, has been a solid interior presence for the Golden Eagles. Oral Roberts is top five in blocks overall, and Vanover is the conference defensive player of the year. He has had more than 100 blocked shots at 7 foot 5.
? Duke is averaging 72.5 points per game, while Oral Roberts is averaging 84.2 points per game.
? Duke ranks 33rd in points allowed with 63.9 opponents per game.
? Duke ranks 21st in rebounds per game with 38.7.
? Duke ranks 33rd in point differential at +8.5
? Duke is ranked 39th in blocked shots with 4.5 per game
? Oral Roberts is ranked #5 in Points Differential at +14.1, and Blocks per game at 5.4.
? Oral Roberts ranks third in points per game with 84.2.
? Oral Roberts ranks 24th in field goal % at 47.9 %
? Duke Averages 33.6 % from the 3-point, while Oral Roberts averages 36.9 beyond the arc.
-Oral Roberts covered the spread in just TWO of their last 10 games.
-Oral Roberts has a 13-16-1 ATS this season
-Oral Roberts covered the spread last against NDSU at -11
-Duke covered the spread in six of their last 10 games. However, the spreads were all close with Virginia at -3.0, and Miami at -2.5
-Duke is a 15-19-0 ATS this season
-Duke is 14-15 as a favorite to cover the spread this season.
-Duke won the Money Line 9 out of their last 10 games
-Oral Roberts won the Money Line in all 10 of their last games.
-Oral Roberts money line has been over -1000 in 5 out of their last 10 games.
-Duke Avg +/- vs O/U Line: -3.91
-Duke Overall O/U Record: 13-20-1
-Duke 5-5 against O/U last 10 games.
-Oral Roberts hit the UNDER 8 of their last 10 games.
-Oral Roberts O/U Record: 13-17-0
-Oral Roberts Avg +/- vs O/U Line: -1.33
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]]>The post Alabama v. Texas A&M Corpus Christi: Betting Odds| NCAA Tournament Round of 64 appeared first on www.ebooksnet.com.
]]>*All lines are taken from Draft Kings*
Money Line
Alabama: -12500
Texas A&M Corpus Christi: +2500
Over/Under: 155.5
Over: -110
Under: -110
Spread:
Alabama -24 (-110)
Texas A&M Corpus Christi: +24 (-110)
Alabama
The Crimson Tide made a comeback this season, after making a first-round exit against Notre Dame last season. After finishing 19-14 last season, Alabama established themselves as the #1 team in the Nation and SEC. The Crimson Tide finished 29-5 overall and have a shot at making a deep run according to March Madness betting sites. Led by Freshman Brandon Miller, the Crimson Tide ranked #1 in strength of schedule, according to CBS, and are one of the most efficient offensive teams. Alabama had impressive wins over Houston, a top tier team, and UNC, a former #1 overall team in the nation. Alabama had 16 impressive wins in the SEC, only losing to Tennessee and Texas A&M. They also finished 7-4 against Top 25 teams. Alabama will look to win their first National Championship in the next couple of weeks. Nate Oats is an elite coach, and this team excels on both sides of the ball, including attacking the rim with their height advantage. Defensively, they’ve held opponents to under 70 points per game. They’ve had many issues off the court, and it’s only a matter of time how it will affect them in games.
Texas A&M Corpus Christi
The Islanders are looking to advance against Alabama after their First Four exist last year. The Islanders found success again this season, finishing 24-10 overall, which is one more win than the previous season. Before January 26th, the Islanders finished just 12-9. Since then, they went on a tear, winning 7 in a row, and winning 11 of their next 12 games. They had 14 wins in the Southland Conference and had key wins against Alcorn State (#1 in SWAC), and twice against Northwestern State. Lead by Trevian Tennyson and Isaac Mushila, the Islanders finished as one of the top teams at the free throw line. Although they were in the bottom 300 in terms of strength of schedule, the Islanders impressed with their 3-point shooting and offense. Jalen Jackson led the Islanders to a gutsy 75-71 First Four win over Southeast Missouri State with 22 points. They struggled against SEMO, shooting less than 30 percent beyond the arc and field goal percentage. However, they went 27-35 from the free throw line, which led them to the First Four win and into the NCAA Tournament. If they are without Senior Guard, Terrion Murdix, it may be very difficult to keep up with Alabama.
Alabama
None
Texas A&M Corpus Christi
Terrion Murdix (G)
Alabama
Freshman Forward Brandon Miller has been waiting for this moment his entire career. He is arguably Alabama’s top player and one of the best in the country. He averaged 19.6 points per game, and 8.3 rebounds, nearly averaging a double-double this year. Not only is he 6’9”, but Miller has also shot a solid 45 percent from field goal rang, and 40 percent from beyond the arc. Although Alabama lost to Gonzaga 100-90 on 12/17, Miller had an impressive game. He finished with 36 points, on 12-22. Miller shot 54.5 percent from the three on 6-11. In addition, he finished with 6 rebounds. He is an all-around athlete that can finish at the rim, strike from beyond the three, and could lead this team to the Final Four.
Freshman Noah Clowney has been another staple of this team, averaging 10.1 points per game and 8 rebounds, tied for 88th in the nation. He nearly has a 50-field percentage. In addition, Junior guard Mark Sears has stepped up nicely, also averaging double digits in points with 12.5.
Texas A&M Corpus Christi
Senior guard Trevian Tennyson has proven he can do it all for his team. He’s a threat beyond the arc, hitting 40 percent of his 3-point shots this season. He’s a player that’s improved both in minutes played, field goal, and three-point percentage.
The Islanders have been without Senior Guard, Terrion Murdix, who has an injured Knee. If he is out against the Crimson Tide, they will be missing a player who shoots 54 percent from the field, averaging double digits in points, and over 4 assists.
? Alabama is averaging 82.2 points per game, while Texas A&M CC is averaging 80.4 points per game.
? Alabama led the entire nation in Rebounds per game at 44.4, just above UAB.
? Alabama averages 44.4 rebounds per game, while Texas A&M CC is averaging 36.9 rebounds per game.
? Texas A&M CC averaged 36.8 % from 3-point, while Alabama averaged 33.8 % from 3-point.
? Alabama is ranked # 8th in point differential, at +13.6
? Texas A&M Corpus Christi ranks 17th in the Nation with 80.2 PPG
? Texas A&M Corpus Christi ranks 47th in point differential at +7.6
? SPREAD: Alabama -24
-Alabama covered the spread in three of their last five games. This included a -9.5 and -8.0 spread against Missouri and Mississippi State.
-Alabama is 19-14-1 this season to cover the spread.
-Alabama highest spread point will be against Texas A&M CC at -24.0
-Texas A&M CC covered the spread in three of their last 10 games.
-Texas A&M CC is 18-12-0 ATS
-Texas A&M CC is 7-3 ATS in the last 10 games.
? MONEY LINE: Alabama
-Alabama won the Money line 8 out of their last 10 games
-Adding Alabama money line at -12500 would not add a significant value to any parlay. High risk low reward situation.
-In their last 10 games, Alabama has won the money line very high at -1932 against UGA and -1682 vs. South Carolina
-Texas A&M CC won the money line in 9 out of their last 10 games.
? OVER/UNDER- OVER
Alabama has a record of 15-18-1 versus the over/under. They hit the UNDER in 6 of their last 10 games, and last 4 games straight.
Texas A&M CC has a 18-12 record versus over/under. They hit the under 6 out of their last ten games.
Alabama Avg +/- vs O/U Line: +3.23
Texas A&M CC Avg +/- vs O/U Line: + 0.24
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]]>The post In the Paint | March Madness Hot Takes, State Champs, Guns (Again), & More appeared first on www.ebooksnet.com.
]]>On Episode 157 of the Ballislife In The Paint Show, hosts Ronnie Flores and Chelsea Hopkins go in on the latest high school and NBA news and give their hot takes on the upcoming NCAA Tournament.
Ron and Chelsea talk about the latest gun incident (surprise) involving Shawn Kemp and Ja Morant's rehab stint away from the Memphis Grizzlies. Is this the first step to a total re-make for Ja?
The ITP crew also talk about the issue of NBA load management and how guidelines could be put in place for player awards through the CBA.
Ron also breaks down the CIF state championships and the atmosphere of the California state tournament. Is there going to be change in order to make it more appeasing to the average fan? Ron also talks about how the CIF and UIL (Texas) state tournament affect the latest FAB 50 rankings.
Chelsea also gives her hot takes on the women's NCAA Tournament. Can anyone challenge South Carolina? Who are the favorites to reach the Final Four? Chelsea also breaks down players to watch.
Both Ron and Chelsea give their team and players to watch in the wide-open men's NCAA Tournament? It truly will be March Madness this season!
The ITP crew offers some terrific insight on all levels of the game and both genders, so make sure to tune in to Episode 157 from start to finish!
(0:00) - Intro
(1:16) - Gun Incident with Shawn Kemp... WTH!
(3:52) - Ja Morant in Rehab: Will He Turn the Corner?
(10:49) - New NBA CBA Will Address Load Management
(13:28) - NBA MVP Debate: A Racial Thing or Flawed Process?
(17:11) - Life of Pro: Preparing for Adjustment or Staying in Moment
(19:45) - Ballislife Podcast Network Shout-Outs
(20:04) - Ron’s CIF Championships Hot Takes
(27:21) - Ron’s FAB 50 Update
(28:24) - Ron’s UIL Final Four Break Down
(35:15) - Chelsea’s Women’s NCAA Tourney Breakdown!
(49:09) - Hot Take on Men’s NCAA Tournament!
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]]>The post UNC vs Michigan Was a BATTLE at Jumpman Invitational!! appeared first on www.ebooksnet.com.
]]>The post UNC vs Michigan Was a BATTLE at Jumpman Invitational!! appeared first on www.ebooksnet.com.
]]>The post ITP 109: Gonzaga vs. UCLA Reaction and HSBB Updates! appeared first on www.ebooksnet.com.
]]>The guys also discuss the preseason Mr. Basketball USA voting. Dereck Lively II of Westtown School sits atop the first ballots for the Player of the Year award, but which players are on his heels? How is this race shaping up compared to past years? Is there a surefire wire-to-wire winner for the 2021-22 award?
Ron and Dev then break down the high school basketball games they watched to begin the season. FAB 50 No. 9 Sierra Canyon went undefeated at the Montgomery Tip-Off in San Diego and No. 14 Corona Centennial won two games against quality opponents in the Battlezone Showcase. Which teams have Ron and Dev seen that could make their way into the regional or national rankings? Which players had standout performances to begin the season? Hit the play button above to listen to In The Paint 109!
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