The appeal of March Madness is the unpredictability, upsets, and possibility of an unknown school...

<p>The appeal of March Madness is the unpredictability, upsets, and possibility of an unknown school embarking on a magical run. That hasn't been the case this year. There isn't a single mid-major school in this year's Sweet 16, which instead features teams from only four major conferences (SEC, Big Ten, Big 12, and ACC) for the first time in NCAA Tournament history.</p><p>Entering the postseason, at least one top-four seed had lost in the opening round in 15 of the past 16 tournaments. All 16 top-four seeds advanced to the Round of 32 this year. St. John's was the only 2-seed to lose in the second round when No. 10 Arkansas ended the Johnnies' season. Arkansas is the only team lower than a 6-seed in the Sweet 16, meaning there's a good chance the Final Four doesn't feature a 7-seed or higher for just the second time in 12 years.</p><p>Bettors hoping for underdog upsets have been left disappointed. Had a bettor made a wager to win $100 on every favorite's moneyline in the first two rounds, you would have profited roughly $930. If you had used the same strategy last year, you would have lost roughly $250 (even though 40 favorites covered the spread last season, tied for the most in a tournament since at least 1985, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/espn/betting/story/_/id/44294942/betting-men-ncaa-tournament-key-trends-march-madness-wagering">ESPN</a>).</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>St. John's, a 6.5-point favorite over Arkansas, was the largest moneyline upset from the weekend. Favorites went 37-11 straight up in the first two rounds and 27-21 against the spread. </p><p>NIL has led to college basketball's rich becoming richer and shrunk the sport's high-level talent distribution. The best players have no incentive to attend, or stay at, a mid-major if high-major programs can pay them substantially more. The results have led to a different kind of tournament, where upsets and Cinderella runs are even more improbable and the top teams create thrilling matchups later on.</p><p>While upsets are popular during March Madness, bettors still tend to side with favorites. This created a successful weekend for bettors, particularly on Sunday, and a disappointing one for sportsbooks.</p><p>"The first three days were somewhat a split decision, with some results good for the public while some were in our favor," said Adrian Horton, head of North American trading at theScore Bet/ESPN Bet. "Sunday was a different story with favorites holding serve across the board. With a lot of favorites covering and almost all winning outright, it was a good day for bettors, especially those with moneyline parlays."</p><p>Although the national title favorites shortened their odds as the field was cut from 64 to 16 over the last four days, the schools atop the oddsboard remain unchanged. </p><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>Duke</td>
<td>+225</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Florida</td>
<td>+310</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Houston</td>
<td>+500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Auburn</td>
<td>+550</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Alabama</td>
<td>+1600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tennessee</td>
<td>+1600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michigan State</td>
<td>+2000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Texas Tech</td>
<td>+2000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Maryland</td>
<td>+3300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Arizona</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kentucky</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ole Miss</td>
<td>+6000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Purdue</td>
<td>+6000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>BYU</td>
<td>+6600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Arkansas</td>
<td>+7500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michigan</td>
<td>+7500</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/329" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/329">Duke</a> has won 29 of its last 30 contests and dominated its first two tournament games, winning by an average margin of 33.5. The Blue Devils remain the favorites to cut down the nets and are the most considerable favorite to advance to the Elite Eight - 8.5 points over <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/69" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/69">Arizona</a> on Thursday.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/380" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/380">Florida</a> has the second-best odds after a resilient Round of 32 win over two-time defending champion <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/280" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/280">UConn</a>. However, the Gators have the longest odds to advance to the Elite Eight among 1-seeds as 6.5-point favorites over <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/627" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/627">Maryland</a>. The four 1-seeds have the best odds to win the title, with a drastic drop-off from 1-seed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/86" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/86">Auburn</a> (+550) to 2-seed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/41" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/41">Alabama</a> (+1600). Auburn and Houston are huge favorites over Michigan and Purdue, respectively.</p><p>Thirteen of the past 17 champions were 1-seeds, so oddsmakers are rightfully assuming one of those four teams will celebrate in San Antonio.</p><p>Sportsbooks are rooting against Duke, which is a widespread choice among bettors. The Blue Devils have garnered 27% of the money wagered and 22% of the bets to win the title. Florida is the second-most popular team with 21% of the money and 18% of the bets.</p><p>As the tournament landscape changes and favorites reign supreme early, everyone might have to recalibrate how to approach the first few rounds. But the one thing that shouldn't change: One of the top seeds will eventually cut down the nets in April.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

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Where are the upsets? Favorites dominate March Madness' opening rounds

It's a weekend loaded with hoops, and one day remains before a pause in the action. This year's t...

<p>It's a weekend loaded with hoops, and one day remains before a pause in the action. This year's tournament has featured fewer upsets than usual, but high quality basketball is still on display.</p><p>With eight games Sunday to close the Round of 32, here are three picks we're rolling with.</p><h3>No. 7 Saint Mary's +5.5 vs. No. 2 Alabama </h3><p>This matchup features two contrasting styles. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/41" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/41">Alabama</a> plays with the fastest tempo among tournament teams and jacks up threes frequently, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/915" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/915">Saint Mary's</a> plays with the third-slowest pace and isn't a high-volume 3-point-shooting team. The Gaels score in the paint and dominate the offensive glass for second-chance opportunities. Alabama also has the highest-scoring offense in the tournament, while Saint Mary's allows the third-fewest points per game among tourney teams.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Something has to give. Saint Mary's slow pace should limit the possessions, favoring a low-scoring matchup and potential upset. Alabama will try to speed the game up, but that's a difficult task given the Gaels' style.</p><p>The Crimson Tide struggled in their opening-round game against No. 15 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/896" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/896">Robert Morris</a> before pulling away in the final minutes. If they come out stumbling against Saint Mary's, they'll go home earlier than expected.</p><h3>No. 4 Maryland -7.5 vs. No. 12 Colorado State </h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/627" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/627">Maryland</a> has a great path to the Sweet 16 for a No. 4 seed, including a Round of 32 showdown against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/264" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/264">Colorado State</a>. </p><p>The Terps have the highest-scoring starting five in the country, and although the bench has been an issue, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/110723" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/110723">DeShawn Harris-Smith</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/86119" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/86119">Jordan Geronimo</a> have been productive reserves. They also have a balanced scoring attack, a daunting frontcourt, dependable guards, and one of the best defenses in the country. Even if shots aren't falling, Maryland can grind out results by shutting down the opposing team's offense, as it did when it beat <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/427" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/427">Grand Canyon</a> by 32 in the opening round.</p><p>Maryland has been on the wrong end of some unlucky breaks in close contests, but this one shouldn't be close. The discrepancy between Maryland's starting lineup and Colorado State's is as large as the Atlantic Ocean.</p><h3>No. 6 Illinois -1.5 vs. No. 3 Kentucky</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/483" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/483">Illinois</a> is finally healthy and playing its best basketball of the season at the perfect time. The Fighting Illini won five of their last six games, including a comfortable win over <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1252" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1252">Xavier</a> in the Round of 64.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/531" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/531">Kentucky</a>'s offensive firepower is enough to carry it deep into the tourney, but the Wildcats' inconsistency has been an issue the last few months. Their problems are on the defensive end, where they surrender 77.9 points per game, the second most of any tournament team. Illinois, meanwhile, has averaged over 90 points per game in its last five wins. </p><p>The Fighting Illini will score easily against Kentucky and advance to the Sweet 16 as a lower-seeded favorite.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

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March Madness bets: Sunday's Round of 32 picks

College basketball fans and bettors have some time to breathe between the Round of 64 and the Rou...

<p>College basketball fans and bettors have some time to breathe between the Round of 64 and the Round of 32. The chaos slows for a moment before starting up again, so let's dive into our favorite plays for Saturday's Round of 32.</p><h3>No. 12 McNeese State +5.5 over No. 4 Purdue</h3><p>People were skeptical of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/644" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/644">McNeese State</a>'s tournament chances after it was revealed that head coach Will Wade is expected to leave for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/762" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/762">NC State</a>. But Wade's team showed up with infectious energy, racing out to a 31-13 halftime lead over <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/250" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/250">Clemson</a>.</p><p>McNeese State's Cinderella run can extend to the Sweet 16 with a favorable matchup over <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/872" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/872">Purdue</a>. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/459" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/459">High Point</a> didn't have the offensive firepower to take advantage of Purdue's leaky defense - which ranks outside the top 150 in defensive efficiency since Feb. 1 - in the opening round. But the Cowboys have the weapons to score with the Boilermakers. The former shot 50% from the free-throw line and 21% from three against Clemson and still scored 69 points. And McNeese State has the athletes to contain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/102884" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/102884">Braden Smith</a> and Purdue's backcourt. I'll pick the Cowboys to keep it close and potentially pull off another upset.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>No. 11 Drake +7.5 over No. 3 Texas Tech</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/325" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/325">Drake</a>'s game plan worked to perfection against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/684" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/684">Missouri</a>. Drake plays with the slowest tempo in the country and grinds teams down defensively. The Bulldogs want to limit possessions, which usually helps underdogs pull off upsets. </p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1079" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1079">Texas Tech</a> is a formidable opponent and will try to speed up play, but it let <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/764" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/764">UNC Wilmington</a> hang around in the opening contest and won't have an answer for Drake's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/163707" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/163707">Bennett Stirtz</a>. Drake's fairytale run isn't ending in the Round of 32.</p><h3>No. 9 Creighton +9.5 over No. 1 Auburn</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/287" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/287">Creighton</a> has the defensive personnel to slow down <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/86" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/86">Auburn</a>'s attack. The Tigers have had solid shooting outings but like to get downhill and dominate inside, while the Bluejays play a drop coverage against pick-and-rolls, allowing big man<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/85101" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/85101"> Ryan Kalkbrenner</a> to sit in the paint and protect the rim. Auburn must move Kalkbrenner away from the basket to secure a win. The Bluejays will pull off the upset if the Tigers try to win from three.</p><p>Creighton is as well coached as any team in the tournament and has experienced players in Kalkbrenner and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/89116" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/89116">Steven Ashworth</a>, who complement each other offensively as a paint presence and an elite shooter. I have the Bluejays in my Final Four, so I'm definitely rolling with them catching 9.5 points.</p><h3>No. 8 Gonzaga +5.5 over No. 1 Houston</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/421" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/421">Gonzaga</a> annihilated <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/413" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/413">Georgia</a> in the Round of 64, and there's a case that the Bulldogs are criminally under-seeded. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/471" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/471">Houston</a> has won 27 of its last 28 games and appears immune to upsets, but it drew a difficult Round of 32 matchup.</p><p>Houston starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/76186" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/76186">J'Wan Roberts</a> returned from an ankle injury in the opening game after missing the last two contests. He played 20 minutes in a blowout win, but Houston needs him at full strength to defeat Gonzaga. Although the Cougars have the second-best defense in the country, the Bulldogs' efficient offense averages the second-most points per game among tournament teams by dominating in the paint. Gonzaga frequently earns trips to the free-throw line and rarely turns the ball over, a formula that often leads to upsets. I don't believe the Bulldogs will win outright, but it should be a close game.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

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March Madness bets: Drake among 4 underdogs to back on Saturday

Ready to do it again on Friday? We have you covered for the second day of the Round of 64. Let's ...

<p>Ready to do it again on Friday? We have you covered for the second day of the Round of 64. Let's dive into our best bets for Friday's slate.</p><h3>No. 14 Lipscomb +14.5 vs. No. 3 Iowa State (1:30 p.m. ET)</h3><p>A double-digit underdog will cover - and win outright - in the opening round. We just need to identify the right one. Betting against an injured group that has struggled over the last few weeks is the way to go. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/501" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/501">Iowa State</a> guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/96005" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/96005">Keshon Gilbert</a>, the Cyclones' leader in assists and second-leading scorer, is out for the tournament. They've lost four of their last seven games.</p><p>Iowa State might have enough depth to withstand his injury in the opening round, but <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/576" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/576">Lipscomb</a> rarely turns the ball over and plays at a slow pace, which should limit the total possessions. If Lipscomb races to an early lead with its relatively efficient offense, it'll be hard for Iowa State to recover.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>No. 12 Colorado State -1.5 vs. No. 5 Memphis (2 p.m. ET)</h3><p>This line says everything. No. 12 seeds are rarely favored over No. 5 seeds. Mountain West squads have a poor track record in the NCAA Tournament, but they typically play power conference teams. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/647" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/647">Memphis</a> only suffered two losses in a weak AAC. </p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/264" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/264">Colorado State </a>has won 10 straight games entering the Big Dance. Meanwhile, Memphis' <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/95656" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/95656">Tyrese Hunter </a>is out and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/92605" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/92605">Dante Harris</a>' injury status remains unclear. This should be a close game based on the line, and I'll roll with Colorado State's top-five free-throw percentage among tournament teams.</p><h3>No. 11 North Carolina -1.5 vs. No. 6 Ole Miss (4:05 p.m. ET)</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/756" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/756">North Carolina</a> has no business being in the NCAA Tournament based on its resume, but it could make a run in the Big Dance.</p><p>The Tar Heels boat-raced <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/923" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/923">San Diego State</a> in the First Four game, earning a date with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/680" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/680">Ole Miss</a>. North Carolina has played better over the last month despite only earning one Quad 1 win in a weak ACC, winning nine of its past 11 games. Meanwhile, Ole Miss has lost five of its past eight. North Carolina is favored for a reason despite being the lower seed. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/87454" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/87454">RJ Davis</a> is talented enough to lead the Tar Heels on a run.</p><h3>No. 6 Illinois -3.5 vs. No. 11 Xavier (9:45 p.m. ET)</h3><p>Since Jan. 8, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/483" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/483">Illinois</a> has implemented seven different starting lineups due to various injuries and illnesses. That lack of continuity produced a 4-7 stretch. However, the Fighting Illini are healthy and closed the regular season with four straight wins. Illinois has the talent edge over <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1252" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1252">Xavier</a>, which snuck into the dance as one of the final at-large bids and outlasted Texas in the First Four game.</p><h3>No. 12 Liberty +6.5 vs. No. 5 Oregon (10:10 p.m. ET)</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/569" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/569">Liberty</a> has the formula to play spoiler with a reliable shooting group and a gritty defense. The Flames connect on 39.5% of their threes, the nation's fifth-best mark. They also hold teams to 28% shooting from beyond the arc, the third-lowest opponent 3-point percentage in the tournament.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/823" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/823">Oregon</a>'s shooting isn't dependable. If Liberty gets hot from long range, it'll pull off the upset. This game will come down to shooting and defending the three, which gives the Flames the edge.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

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March Madness bets: Friday's Round of 64 picks

It's time to play hooky from work, sit on the couch, and enjoy the madness.   There are 16 games ...

<p>It's time to play hooky from work, sit on the couch, and enjoy the madness. </p><p>There are 16 games Thursday, and while betting on all of them might seem fun now, you'll likely regret that decision by the time your head hits the pillow at the end of the day. But don't worry - we're here to sort through the games and give our favorite bets for Thursday's slate.</p><p>First, here's our preview content to get you ready for the madness:</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><ul>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3241968" href="https://thescore.com/news/3241968">Seven trends to follow</a></li>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3241959" href="https://thescore.com/news/3241959">East Region preview</a></li>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3244796" href="https://thescore.com/news/3244796">West Region preview</a></li>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3245427" href="https://thescore.com/news/3245427">South Region preview</a></li>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3245572" href="https://thescore.com/news/3245572">Midwest Region preview</a></li>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3245567" href="https://thescore.com/news/3245567">Potential first-round upsets</a></li>
</ul><p>Now, onto the bets.</p><h3>Creighton +2.5 vs. Louisville (12:15 p.m. ET)</h3><p>Few duos in the tournament are more trustworthy than <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/287" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/287">Creighton</a> guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/89116" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/89116">Steven Ashworth</a> and big man <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/85101" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/85101">Ryan Kalkbrenner</a>, who complement each other perfectly with the former's shooting and the latter's paint presence. Creighton's other starters aren't as consistent, but Louisville is overvalued in this spot. While the Cardinals will benefit from a home crowd in Lexington, Kentucky, their impressive record is misleading due to a weak ACC.</p><p>Creighton has tournament experience and is as well coached as any team in the field.</p><h3>High Point +7.5 vs. Purdue, Over 152.5 (12:40 p.m. ET)</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/872" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/872">Purdue</a> has the 155th-worst defense in the country since Feb. 1, according to <a href="https://barttorvik.com/?year=2025&amp;sort=AdjDE&amp;hteam=&amp;t2value=&amp;conlimit=All&amp;state=All&amp;begin=20250201&amp;end=20250501&amp;top=0&amp;revquad=0&amp;quad=5&amp;venue=All&amp;type=All&amp;mingames=0#">Bart Torvik</a>. It allows opponents to shoot 56% from 2-point range, the worst mark of any tournament team. High Point's defense, meanwhile, struggles against pick-and-roll-heavy guards like <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/102884" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/102884">Braden Smith</a>. This should be a high-scoring affair, and High Point's offense can keep pace with Purdue's.</p><p>The Boilermakers, who lost six of their last nine games, will return to their notorious March shortcomings after appearing in last year's national championship.</p><h3>Arkansas +4.5 vs. Kansas (7:10 p.m. ET)</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/524" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/524">Kansas</a> entered the season as one of the national title favorites and has been a mess for most of the campaign. The Jayhawks went 4-5 in their last nine games, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/86939" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/86939">Hunter Dickinson</a>'s talent hasn't led to nearly as much winning as expected. He stumbles out of double teams and doesn't get much help from his teammates. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/96515" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/96515">Zeke Mayo</a> is the only other player averaging double figures.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/71" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/71">Arkansas</a> has had its issues this season, but it won five of its last seven contests. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/161991" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/161991">Boogie Fland</a> is also back in the lineup, and John Calipari will bring him off the bench and likely limit his workload. This is ultimately a matchup between two powerhouse coaches - Calipari and Bill Self - whose teams both had disappointing seasons.</p><p>Kansas will be sent home and its fans will say good riddance to the Dickinson experience.</p><h3>Drake +6.5 vs Missouri, Under 131.5 (7:35 p.m. ET)</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/325" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/325">Drake</a> averages the fewest possessions per game in the country, and its purposefully slow tempo increases its chances of an upset. The lower the score, the tighter the game will be. Drake's defense holds opponents to 58.4 points per game, the best scoring defense of any tournament team.</p><p>The Bulldogs successfully force turnovers, crash the offensive glass, and get to the free-throw line - three areas that often lead to upsets in the Big Dance. They also have the third-best free throw rate among tournament teams, the third-best opponent turnover rate, and the seventh-best offensive rebounding rate. </p><p>We're again fading a team that's trending in the wrong direction heading into the postseason, as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/684" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/684">Missouri</a> lost five of its last seven games.</p><h3>UC San Diego +2.5 vs. Michigan (10 p.m. ET)</h3><p>Instead of fading a team that's spiraling, let's fade a squad coming off an impressive Big Ten Tournament title. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/659" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/659">Michigan</a> played four games in four days from last Thursday to Sunday and was then stuck with a Thursday game in Denver. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/188" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/188">UC San Diego</a>, meanwhile, has benefitted from extra rest.</p><p>UC San Diego could have trouble with Michigan's size, but the Wolverines have struggled with turnovers all season. They have the third-worst turnover rate among tournament teams, while UC San Diego has the best opponent turnover rate and scores the most points off turnovers.</p><p>We often see teams enjoy successful conference tournament runs and then stumble in the tournament. Michigan will be the latest example.</p><h3>Yale +7.5 vs. Texas A&amp;M (7:25 p.m. ET)</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1070" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1070">Texas A&amp;M</a> is the nation's best offensive rebounding team. It creates extra possessions by crashing the glass. Nearly 23% of their points come from second-chance opportunities, the highest percentage in the tournament field. </p><p>But <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1254" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1254">Yale</a> has the personnel to neutralize Texas A&amp;M's strength with a physical frontcourt and strong defensive rebounders. It's also one of the tournament's best 3-point shooting teams, while Texas A&amp;M can't shoot from deep.</p><p>This is a bad matchup for the Aggies.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

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March Madness bets: Thursday's opening-round picks

It's time for everyone's favorite part of preparing for the NCAA Tournament: picking upsets. The ...

<p>It's time for everyone's favorite part of preparing for the NCAA Tournament: picking upsets. The lower seeds shocking the world is why the Madness moniker follows March. Without upsets, this tournament wouldn't be so enthralling. They also lead to profitable bets if you fire on the right underdogs.</p><p>In this article, we're targeting the bracket-busting upsets that can lead to big money if you nail these moneyline underdogs. And this feature doesn't include upsets like UC San Diego, Creighton, or Arkansas. Although those teams are underdogs, those point spreads are fewer than five points. We'll save those for our best Thursday and Friday bets.</p><h3>No. 13 High Point +7.5 (+290) over No. 4 Purdue</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/872" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/872">Purdue</a> has lost six of its last nine games, almost entirely because of its horrific defense. The Boilermakers allow opponents to shoot 56% from 2-point range, the worst mark of any tournament team. Their perimeter defense is also non-existent, which <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/459" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/459">High Point</a> will exploit with shifty guards who can get into the lane.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Panthers have won 14 consecutive contests, the nation's second-longest winning streak. However, they played only one top-100 opponent all season. They struggle against pick-and-roll heavy guards like <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/102884" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/102884">Braden Smith</a>, so this will likely be a high-scoring contest. High Point is a respectable shooting team and should score at will against Purdue, which has trended downward over the last month.</p><h3>No. 11 Drake +6.5 (+220) over No. 6 Missouri</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/325" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/325">Drake</a> has tested the theory that Division II players can compete at the Division I level. The Bulldogs' squad consists of many former Divison II hoopers who have proven they were ready to compete against elevated competition.</p><p>Drake plays a deliberately slow brand of basketball, setting up its offense almost entirely in the halfcourt. The group averages the fewest possessions per game in the country. Fewer possessions usually lead to a lower score and a better chance of an upset.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/163702" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/163702">Mitch Mascari </a>is one of the tournament's best 3-point shooters and plays nearly the entire game (38.5 minutes per game). <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/684" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/684">Missouri</a>'s defense can't fall asleep when locating Mascari.</p><p>The Bulldogs' formula revolves around slowing the game down, getting to the free-throw line, crashing the offensive glass, and forcing turnovers. They have the third-best opponent turnover rate among tournament teams and the seventh-best offensive rebounding rate. Lower-seeded programs often use that recipe to pull off upsets.</p><p>Drake's slow pace helps hold opponents to 58.4 points per game, the best scoring defense of any tournament program. The Bulldogs have the formula to upset Missouri, which lost five of its last seven contests.</p><h3>No. 12 Liberty +7.5 (+260) over No. 5 Oregon</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/569" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/569">Liberty</a> is the nation's fifth-best 3-point shooting squad, drilling 39.5% of its threes. A mid-major with as many prolific shooters as the Flames is primed to play spoiler and potentially go on a Cinderella run. They also defend at a high level, allowing 62.9 points per game and holding teams to 28% 3-point shooting, the third-best mark in the tournament.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/823" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/823">Oregon</a> is already a below-average shooting team and doesn't have enough offensive weapons to keep up if Liberty gets hot from three. The Flames' weakness is often mediocre rebounding, but the Ducks aren't a strong rebounding group either. Oregon had an impressive season in its first year in the Big Ten, but its run will end in the Round of 64.</p><h3>No. 13 Yale +7.5 (+270) over No. 4 Texas A&amp;M</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1070" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1070">Texas A&amp;M</a> is one of the worst 3-point shooting teams in the tournament, yet its offense survives because of its dominant offensive rebounding. The Aggies clean up 40% of their misses, the best offensive rebounding rate in the country. Nearly 23% of their points come from second-chance opportunities, the highest percentage in the tournament field.</p><p>That strength is why <a href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1254">Yale</a> is a brutal matchup for Texas A&amp;M. The Bulldogs are a physical squad that'll neutralize the Aggies' advantage on the glass. Yale has the tournament's eighth-best opponent offensive rebounding rate. It's also one of the best 3-point shooting teams in the tourney but struggles to defend the three. Still, Texas A&amp;M doesn't have the shooters to take advantage.</p><p>Mid-majors rarely pull off upsets two years in a row - No. 13 Yale defeated No. 4 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/86" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/86">Auburn</a> last year - but the Bulldogs were dealt the perfect opponent in what will be a physical showdown.</p><h3>No. 14 Lipscomb +14.5 (+900) over No. 3 Iowa State</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/501" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/501">Iowa State</a> is limping into the Big Dance. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/96005" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/96005">Keshon Gilbert</a> is out for the tournament, a major blow to the Cyclones' backcourt. Although they've played without Gilbert a few times this season, he's a key part of their offensive operation as the assist leader. Iowa State had the makings of a national title contender when it was at full strength early this season, but it lost four of its last seven games.</p><p>For those wondering, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/576" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/576">Lipscomb</a> is a small private school in Tennessee. It won 25 contests as a member of the Atlantic Sun.</p><p>Iowa State's defense leads to offense, forcing turnovers and scoring in transition. However, Lipscomb rarely turns the ball over. It typically doesn't play the type of athletes on Iowa State, but this is March. The Bisons will play like they have nothing to lose while all the pressure is on the Cyclones. The point spread indicates this is an unlikely upset, but why not be on the right side of history?</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

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Targeting 5 opening-round upsets to kick off the madness

We've covered the East, West, and South regions. Now, we're diving into the fourth and final regi...

<p><span style="margin:0px; padding:0px; text-align:left">We've covered the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3241959" href="https://thescore.com/news/3241959">East</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3244796" href="https://thescore.com/news/3244796">West</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3245427" href="https://thescore.com/news/3245427">South</a> regions. Now, we're diving into the fourth and final region in the bracket: the Midwest. Is <a target="_blank" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/471">Houston</a> destined to make the Final Four, or can another team prevent the Cougars from heading to San Antonio?</span></p><h3>Midwest Region 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>Houston</td>
<td>+120</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tennessee</td>
<td>+350</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Gonzaga</td>
<td>+900</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kentucky</td>
<td>+900</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Illinois</td>
<td>+1100</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Purdue</td>
<td>+1300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Clemson</td>
<td>+1400</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UCLA</td>
<td>+2200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Georgia</td>
<td>+8000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>McNeese State</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Texas</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Utah State</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Xavier</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em>Odds via theScore Bet. No odds longer than 100-1 listed.</em></p><h3>Midwest Region Winner: Houston +120</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/471" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/471">Houston</a> is the only No. 1 seed with plus odds to advance to the Final Four. Let's pounce on the oddsmakers' mistake. All of the recent champions had exceptional guard play and veteran-led groups. The Cougars check both boxes, with<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/84316" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/84316"> L.J. Cryer</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/103134" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/103134">Emanuel Sharp</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/103081" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/103081">Milos Uzan</a> averaging at least 11 points. Houston needs forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/76186" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/76186">J'Wan Roberts </a>back, but he's expected to return for the tournament.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Cougars have been mostly immune to upsets, winning 26 of their last 27 games in one of the best conferences in the country. That shouldn't change against inferior opponents in the Big Dance. Houston has the nation's second-best defense and the 10th-best offense. This team has the makings of a national championship group. While a potential Round of 32 matchup against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/421" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/421">Gonzaga</a> won't be easy, this region is relatively light on contenders.</p><h3>Long-shot pick: Clemson +1400</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/250" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/250">Clemson</a> is one of seven teams with top-25 offensive and defensive efficiency ratings, per <a href="https://kenpom.com/index.php">KenPom</a>. It won 15 of its last 17 games, which includes a win over <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/329" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/329">Duke</a>. Leading scorer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/76739" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/76739">Chase Hunter</a> is a reliable guard who can create for himself in late-game situations as a 41% 3-point shooter. And he's surrounded by dependable shooting and frontcourt depth.</p><p>With eight players averaging at least 10 minutes, Clemson has the bodies to stay fresh. The Tigers open with a first-round contest against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/644" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/644">McNeese State</a>, a solid mid-major program led by a great coach in Will Wade. If they escape the Cowboys, they play the winner of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/872" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/872">Purdue</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/459" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/459">High Point</a>. Clemson will likely have to beat Houston to make a serious run. It's hard to imagine the Cougars losing, but Clemson has the personnel to give them a fight.</p><h3>Best opening-round bet</h3><p><strong>High Point +7.5 vs. Purdue</strong></p><p>Aside from a trip to the national title game with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121683" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121683">Zach Edey</a> last year, Purdue coach Matt Painter doesn't have the best track record in the NCAA Tournament. The Boilermakers displayed their vulnerability down the season's stretch, losing six of their final nine games.</p><p>The concerns are almost entirely on the defensive end. Purdue's leaky perimeter defense allows opponents to get in the lane and shoot 56% from 2-point range, the worst mark of all tournament teams. High Point's defense isn't particularly dangerous either, so All-American guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/102884" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/102884">Braden Smith</a> could go nuclear. However, the Panthers' offense will score enough to hang around and potentially pull off the upset over the 4-seed.</p><h3>Region future bets</h3><p><strong>Illinois to make the Sweet 16 (+120)</strong></p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/483" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/483">Illinois</a> had a rough season relative to expectations, but that wasn't entirely its fault. Due to various injuries and illnesses, it implemented seven different starting lineups since Jan. 8, leading to a 4-7 stretch. However, Illinois closed the regular season with four straight wins before a blowout loss to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/627" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/627">Maryland</a> in the Big Ten Tournament.</p><p>The Fighting Illini have been healthy and playing better over the last few weeks. They'll play the winner of the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1252" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1252">Xavier</a>-<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1069" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1069">Texas</a> play-in matchup and then take on a vulnerable <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/531" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/531">Kentucky</a> team that has offensive firepower but has struggled to string together wins over the last couple of months.</p><p><strong>Clemson to make Sweet 16 (+120)</strong></p><p>I was surprised to see Clemson at plus-money for all the reasons previously explained. It's a 7.5-point favorite over McNeese State and would be favored over High Point if it pulled off the upset over Purdue. The Tigers have matchup advantages all over the floor if they face the Boilermakers in the Round of 32.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/30661211/related

Midwest Region betting preview: Houston or the field? 

After sorting through the East and West regions, it's time to focus on the South Region. We're pr...

<p>After sorting through the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3241959" href="https://thescore.com/news/3241959">East</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3244796" href="https://thescore.com/news/3244796">West</a> regions, it's time to focus on the South Region. We're predicting chaos in the South while eyeing some long shots worth wagering on.</p><h3>South Region 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>Auburn</td>
<td>-110</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michigan State</td>
<td>+475</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Iowa State</td>
<td>+600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Texas A&amp;M</td>
<td>+1400</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michigan</td>
<td>+2000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Louisville</td>
<td>+2200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ole Miss</td>
<td>+2200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Marquette</td>
<td>+2500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>North Carolina</td>
<td>+2800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Creighton</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UC San Diego</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em>*Odds longer than 50-1 not listed</em></p><h3>South Region winner: Michigan State +475</h3><p>There's almost always one chaotic region that produces a lower-seeded Final Four team. This has the potential to do that. My long-shot pick below is my Final Four pick in brackets, but we'll still consider it a long shot because the odds are lengthy.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/86" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/86">Auburn</a> is rightfully the favorite with its experience and talent, but it trended downward over the last week, losing three of its final four games.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/660" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/660"> Michigan State</a> won the Big Ten regular season title with its depth and balanced scoring attack. This Spartans group is a classic Tom Izzo-coached squad, relying on defense and rebounding to win games. Michigan State has solid guard play, a necessity in the tournament, and clutch shotmaking that could catapult it to the Final Four. Izzo is a proven winner in March. He's the last Big Ten coach to win a national title and could make a run at it again 25 years later.</p><h3>Long shot pick: Creighton +4000</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/287" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/287">Creighton</a> has incredibly long odds because it's an underdog in its opening game against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/589" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/589">Louisville</a>, which will benefit from a partisan crowd in Lexington, Kentucky. However, Creighton is the better team with experienced tournament players.</p><p>If it escapes Louisville, Creighton has a good chance to be the first team to knock off a No. 1 seed. The Bluejays play a drop coverage in the pick-and-roll and protect the rim effectively with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/85101" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/85101">Ryan Kalkbrenner</a>. They will force Auburn to rely on outside shooting, where the Tigers are inconsistent. Creighton coach Greg McDermott is one of the best in the country and knows what it takes to win in March. This under-seeded Creighton team has the personnel and experience to advance far.</p><h3>Best opening-round bet</h3><p><strong>UC San Diego +2.5 vs. Michigan</strong></p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/188" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/188">UC San Diego </a>opened as a 4.5-point underdog and bettors pounced on the Tritons. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/659" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/659">Michigan</a> won the Big Ten Tournament title Sunday, which involved playing four games in four days. The Wolverines traveled from Indianapolis back to Michigan, then to Denver to get ready for a Thursday game. Meanwhile, San Diego has had more rest over the past week.</p><p>Michigan's late-season downfall (before its Big Ten Tournament run) was largely because of turnovers. The Wolverines have the third-worst turnover rate among tournament teams, and UC San Diego is the perfect team to exploit that. The Tritons lead the field in opponent turnover rate and points off turnovers. UC San Diego 's defense should shut down Michigan.</p><h3>Region future bets</h3><p><strong>UC San Diego to reach the Sweet 16 (+360)</strong></p><p>When UC San Diego defeats Michigan outright - it's only +125 on the moneyline - it will have to beat either <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1070" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1070">Texas A&amp;M</a> or <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1254" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1254">Yale</a> in the Round of 32, two winnable matchups. Yale is a popular upset pick after it stunned Auburn last year. Texas A&amp;M is a tough group that dominates the offensive glass, but UC San Diego is gritty defensively, too. It would only be a slight underdog against Texas A&amp;M and should be favored over Yale. </p><p>This is a price to take advantage of after UC San Diego rolled through the Big West en route to 30 wins and a 15-game winning streak entering the tournament. </p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

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South Region betting preview: Why Creighton can cause chaos

While the East Region feels chalky with the favorites expected to advance far, the West Region is...

<p>While the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3241959" href="https://thescore.com/news/3241959">East Region</a> feels chalky with the favorites expected to advance far, the West Region is the opposite. This group has many legitimate national title contenders and incredible coaching personalities, including Dan Hurley, John Calipari, Bill Self, and Rick Pitino. While we can try to predict what will happen, drama and excitement are the only certainties.</p><h3>West Region 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>Florida</td>
<td>-110</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Texas Tech</td>
<td>+500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>St. John's</td>
<td>+550</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Maryland</td>
<td>+850</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kansas</td>
<td>+1500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Missouri</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UConn</td>
<td>+2500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Colorado State</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Arkansas</td>
<td>+8000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Oklahoma</td>
<td>+8000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Memphis</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Drake</td>
<td>+15000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em>*Odds longer than 150-1 not listed</em></p><h3>East region winner: St. John's +550</h3><p>If this were just a bracket, I'd take <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/380" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/380">Florida</a>. But I don't see any value in the Gators at -110. This isn't getting <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/329" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/329">Duke</a> at a short price with an easy path. Florida is the best team in the West Region but will have to go through a gauntlet to reach the Final Four.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1011" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1011">St. John's</a> is where the value lies. The Johnnies have the best defensive efficiency rating in the country. They prevent offenses from getting into their actions or generating quality looks. St. John's problem is often abysmal 3-point shooting, which explains why oddsmakers discredit them. However, Pitino has gone far in the tournament with defensive-oriented teams who struggle to shoot.</p><p>The Johnnies score the second-most second-chance points among tournament teams and seventh-most paint points. Their gritty, physical brand of basketball wears down opponents for 40 minutes.</p><h3>Long-shot pick: Maryland +850</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/627" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/627">Maryland</a> has the highest-scoring starting five in the country, but its game isn't unbalanced; the Terps also have the sixth-best defense. Maryland finished second in the Big Ten and ended the regular season winning eight of its last nine contests. Its lone loss over that span came when <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/660" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/660">Michigan State</a> drilled a half-court heave at the buzzer.</p><p>The Terps have the necessary guard play and frontcourt prowess with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/121822" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/121822">Derik Queen</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/95513" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/95513">Julian Reese</a> to knock off Florida in a potential Sweet 16 showdown. Maryland's bench production is some of the worst in the country, but rotations are tightened in postseason basketball.</p><p>KenPom ranks Maryland as the nation's 12th-best team, which makes the Terps worth a Final Four ticket at this price.</p><h3>Best opening-round bet</h3><p><strong>No. 12 Colorado State -2.5 vs. No. 5 Memphis</strong></p><p>The line says everything. No. 12 seeds are rarely favored over No. 5 seeds, but <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/647" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/647">Memphis</a> is not a strong 5-seed. The Tigers have an impressive nonconference resume but have looked merely average in a weak AAC.</p><p>Mountain West teams don't have a good record in the NCAA Tournament, but that's because they usually face power conference teams. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/264" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/264">Colorado State</a> earned its bid by winning the Mountain West Tournament and is rewarded with playing another mid-major. If this game is close late, the Rams' top-five free-throw percentage among tournament teams will carry them to a win.</p><h3>Region future bets</h3><p><strong>Texas Tech to make the Elite Eight +170</strong></p><p>As good as St. John's is defensively, its offensive concerns and tournament inexperience could hurt in a potential Sweet 16 matchup against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1079" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1079">Texas Tech</a>, which is ranked ahead of the Johnnies on KenPom. The Red Raiders have the country's sixth-best offense and a manageable path to the Sweet 16. They finished second in the Big 12 with an impressive win over Houston. Texas Tech hasn't garnered as much attention in this region because of other programs' pedigree, but the Red Raiders are a serious threat.</p><p><strong>Maryland to make the Elite Eight +450</strong></p><p>I already explained why Maryland can win the region, and the same rationale applies to earning a spot in the Elite Eight. The Terps have an easy path to the Sweet 16, and they'll likely play Florida in that spot. Maryland, which is capable of matching Florida's offensive production, can win that game. The Terps will be underdogs against the Gators, but not as long as +450.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

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West Region betting preview: Florida heavily favored, St. John's brings value

We already provided readers with a guide to trends and strategies for placing bets and filling ou...

<p>We already provided readers with a guide to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3241968" href="https://thescore.com/news/3241968">trends and strategies</a> for placing bets and filling out brackets, but now we're breaking down every region with our picks, long shots, futures, and opening-round bets. Let's start with the East Region.</p><h3>Odds to win the East Region</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>-135</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Alabama</td>
<td>+425</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Arizona</td>
<td>+850</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Wisconsin</td>
<td>+1000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>BYU</td>
<td>+2000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Saint Mary's</td>
<td>+2500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Oregon</td>
<td>+3300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Baylor</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mississippi State</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>VCU</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Vanderbilt</td>
<td>+7500</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em>*Odds longer than 300-1 not listed </em></p><h3>East Region winner: Duke -135</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/329" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/329">Duke</a> has the shortest odds to make the Final Four of any team in the field of 68 for two reasons: The Blue Devils have been the most dominant team in the country for the last three months, and they have an easy path to the Final Four.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Duke won 27 of its last 28 games, including two wins without <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/162169" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/162169">Cooper Flagg</a> against tournament teams <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/756" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/756">North Carolina</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/589" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/589">Louisville</a> in the ACC tourney. Flagg is expected to return for the Big Dance. The Blue Devils need the surefire top pick in the upcoming NBA draft, but they showcased how effective they can be without him. Their offense centered around <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/162168" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/162168">Kon Knueppel</a>, a dynamic shooter who displayed his pick-and-roll playmaking abilities.</p><p>Flagg will have time to adjust to any limitations caused by his ankle injury. The Blue Devils will play the winner of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/109" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/109">Baylor</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/682" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/682">Mississippi State</a> - two mediocre teams - with pending matchups against weak No. 4 and 5 seeds. Duke making the Elite Eight is the lock of the tournament; oddsmakers give Duke a 71% chance (-250) to get there, where it could meet Alabama, the toughest opponent in the region.</p><p>While <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/41" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/41">Alabama</a> is a legitimate threat with a deep rotation and high-octane offense, this group isn't as good as the one that made the Final Four last year. Defensive struggles and turnovers are an issue, but that didn't hurt the team in the 2024 tourney. The difference is 3-point efficiency: The Crimson Tide shot at least 42% from three in three of their four tournament wins last year, and they've only shot better than 38% from long range twice in their last nine games. It's hard to imagine Alabama catching fire in the tournament again.</p><h3>Long-shot pick: BYU +1800</h3><p>No. 6 seed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/155" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/155">BYU</a> has a difficult first-round game against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1147" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1147">VCU</a>, but it's got a favorable path if it escapes the opening round. It's on the opposite side from Duke; it wouldn't play the Blue Devils until the Elite Eight.</p><p>BYU owns the nation's 11th-ranked offense and can score with anyone. The Cougars' multi-layered attack features reliable shooters and brilliant drivers; the team ranks sixth in the country in 2-point percentage. BYU could face <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1234" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1234">Wisconsin</a> and Alabama as it advances through the bracket. Those teams are stylistically similar to the Cougars, but BYU should be able to keep up. BYU won nine straight conference games before losing to Houston in the Big 12 Tournament.</p><h3>Best opening-round bet</h3><p><strong>BYU -2.5 vs. VCU</strong></p><p>I feel confident betting BYU at only minus-2.5. This is a classic matchup between a prolific offense and a stingy defense.</p><p>VCU won the A-10 Tournament as the favorite. The Rams play a physical brand of basketball, and their top-10 offensive rebounding rate nationally helps them create extra possessions. Luckily for BYU, the Cougars have experience handling physical opponents and high-quality rebounding groups from playing in the Big 12. The Cougars are in the top 20 in total rebounding rate.</p><p>VCU's offense won't keep pace with BYU's attack, which has exploded for at least 85 points in six of its last seven wins.</p><h3>Region future bets</h3><p><strong>Liberty to make the Sweet 16 (+1400)</strong></p><p>Unfortunately, this is the chalkiest region, with Duke and Alabama likely on a collision course to meet in the Elite Eight. Thus, there aren't too many upsets to explore (I promise every other region preview will have more!), but it's worth taking a flier on the 12-seed to make a Sweet 16 run. A double-digit seed has made the Sweet 16 in 16 straight tournaments. Why not <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/569" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/569">Liberty</a> against a vulnerable <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/823" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/823">Oregon</a> squad as the 5-seed and potentially an overrated <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/69" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/69">Arizona</a> team as the 4-seed?</p><p>It's smart to target teams capable of catching fire from three over a few games. Liberty owns the nation's fifth-best 3-point percentage, connecting on 39.5% of its long-distance attempts. The Flames are also a respectable defensive team, holding opponents to under 99 points per 100 possessions - a top-50 mark in the country, per <a data-in-app-uri="" href="https://kenpom.com/index.php?s=RankAdjDE">KenPom</a>. Liberty has the formula to make a run, and it's worth a flier at +1400.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div>

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East Region betting preview: Can anyone knock off Duke?

Whether filling out brackets or placing wagers, tons of information, data, and trends need to be ...

<p>Whether filling out brackets or placing wagers, tons of information, data, and trends need to be sorted through to make educated picks. However, sometimes the uneducated pick trumps the educated one with the madness that comes with March.</p><p>Regardless, historical trends are often used to help predict how the tournament will play out. Let's dive into some to help you pick the games and win your brackets.</p><p><strong>1. Fade (most of) the SEC early.</strong></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>This won't sit well with some SEC homers after the conference just sent 14 teams to the Big Dance, the most from a single conference in NCAA Tournament history. The conference also had the best nonconference winning percentage (.889) in college basketball history. </p><p>But that regular-season success is why you should fade many SEC teams in the tournament. Playing a difficult conference schedule can be physically and mentally draining, wearing teams down when the tournament rolls around.</p><p>The previous most dominant conferences are a good predictor of what could happen to the SEC. The ACC in 1997 had a slightly lower nonconference win percentage but a higher nonconference margin of victory. It sent six teams to the dance, and only one made it past the Sweet 16. The Big 12 in 2024 had the third-best nonconference scoring margin ever and sent eight teams. None made it past the Sweet 16, and only two advanced to the second weekend.</p><p>The Big Ten was considered one of the most dominant regular season conferences in 2021, sending nine teams to the tourney. Only one advanced to the Sweet 16.</p><p>I'm not saying every SEC team will flame out early. The juggernauts such as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/86" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/86">Auburn</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/41" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/41">Alabama</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/380" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/380">Florida</a> could easily end up in the Final Four. But teams such as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/531" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/531">Kentucky</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1070" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1070">Texas A&amp;M</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/684" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/684">Missouri</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/811" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/811">Oklahoma</a>, and others might be sent home early. Don't be surprised when only three or four SEC teams make it to the second weekend.</p><p><strong>2. Ten of the past 11 Final Fours have featured a 7-seed or higher.</strong></p><p>It's not a Final Four without a team no one expects to be there joining the party. The only Final Four in the past 11 years that didn't feature a 7-seed or higher was the 2019 tournament with 1-, 2-, 3-, and 5-seeds. Ninth-seeded <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/287" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/287">Creighton</a>, 8-seed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/421" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/421">Gonzaga</a>, and 11-seed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/325" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/325">Drake</a> are all worthy targets this year.</p><p>If you're worried about a lower-seeded Cinderella losing early and want to be safer, each of the past 14 Final Fours had at least one team seeded four or higher.</p><p><strong>3. The champion will probably be a 1-seed.</strong></p><p>Thirteen of the past 17 national champions were 1-seeds. While it's fun to fire on upsets in the early rounds and guess the Cinderella squad that will make a run, the champion will be a top team. Middling teams can get hot for three or four games, but their luck always runs out at some point.</p><p>The national champion market isn't one you have to scroll down too far. It's almost certain the winner will be one of the teams with the best odds. The difficult task is picking which one. Auburn (+500), <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/329" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/329">Duke</a> (+300), <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/471" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/471">Houston</a> (+650), and Florida (+380) are this year's choices.</p><p>The four non-top seeds that won a title in the past 17 years were 4-seed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/280" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/280">UConn</a> in 2023, 2-seed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1145" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1145">Villanova</a> in 2016, 7-seed UConn in 2014, and 3-seed UConn in 2011. Unless you think the 8th-seeded Huskies will capture a third consecutive title, pick a 1-seed to win it all.</p><p><strong>4. Twenty-one of the past 22 national champions have finished top 25 in KenPom's offensive and defensive efficiency ranking.</strong></p><p>Seven teams qualify based on this trend: Auburn, Duke, Houston, Florida, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1063" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1063">Tennessee</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/501" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/501">Iowa State</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/250" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/250">Clemson</a>.</p><p>Four teams just missed out on qualifying but could play themselves into the top 25 of each metric with an impressive tournament run: <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/660" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/660">Michigan State</a> (No. 5 defense, No. 27 offense), <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1234" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1234">Wisconsin</a> (No. 13 offense, No. 27 defense), <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/627" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/627">Maryland</a> (No. 6 defense, No. 28 offense), and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/589" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/589">Louisville</a> (No. 21 defense, No. 29 offense).</p><p><strong>5. A double-digit seed has advanced to the Sweet 16 in 16 consecutive tournaments.</strong></p><p>Never pick all chalk in the opening two rounds. Upsets will happen - some we expect and some that are downright shocking.</p><p>It's nearly guaranteed that a double-digit seed will embark on a Cinderella run and appear in the Sweet 16. History suggests it's most likely to be an 11-seed, which has 15 Sweet 16 appearances since 2011, the most of any double-digit seed. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/762" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/762">NC State</a>, which made the Final Four as an 11-seed last year, was the lone double-digit seed to earn a Sweet 16 trip. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/325" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/325">Drake</a> is an intriguing 11-seed to target this year.</p><p><strong>6. At least one No. 2 seed has been knocked out before the Sweet 16 in 24 of the past 27 tournaments.</strong></p><p>Coincidentally, one of the three tournaments that all No. 2 seeds advanced to the second weekend was last year when Iowa State, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/620" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/620">Marquette</a>, Tennessee, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/69" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/69">Arizona</a> reached the Sweet 16.</p><p>Typically, it's safe to assume at least one 2-seed will be upset in the first or second round - most likely in the second round by a 7- or 10-seed. Furthermore, a 2-seed has failed to reach the championship game in 10 of the past 11 tournaments - Villanova was the exception when it won the title as a 2-seed in 2016. March Madness is not kind to 2-seeds.</p><p>Which 2-seed will be knocked out early this year? <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1011" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1011">St. John's</a> will play either <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/524" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/524">Kansas</a> or <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/71" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/71">Arkansas</a> in the second round and Michigan State will likely face Marquette, both of which are potential upset spots. However, Tennessee is the most vulnerable of the 2-seeds.</p><p><strong>7. At least one 12-seed usually beats a 5-seed and a top-four seed typically goes down. Who will it be this year?</strong></p><p>A 12-seed has defeated a 5-seed in 33 of the past 39 tournaments. It's always the most popular upset on brackets for good reason. No. 12 seed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/188" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/188">UC San Diego </a>will be a trendy pick to upset No. 5 seed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/659" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/659">Michigan</a>. The betting line indicates it'll be a close game. Michigan opened as a 4.5-point favorite, but that has shrunk to 2.5 as bettors pounced on UC San Diego.</p><p>The Wolverines won the Big Ten title, but that entailed playing four games in four days. It now must travel to Denver for a Thursday tipoff while UC San Diego has extra rest. No. 12 seed<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/264" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/264"> Colorado State</a> against No. 5 seed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/647" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/647">Memphis</a> is another possible upset.</p><p>Another popular upset is a top-16 team losing in the first round. At least one top-4 seed has lost in the opening round in 15 of the past 16 tournaments. Last year, No. 13 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1254" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1254">Yale</a> defeated No. 4 Auburn, and No. 14 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/798" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/798">Oakland</a> knocked off 3-seed Kentucky. No. 4 seeds <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/872" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/872">Purdue</a> and Texas A&amp;M could be susceptible with challenging matchups against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/459" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/459">High Point</a> and Yale, respectively.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

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7 March Madness trends to consider for filling brackets, making bets

Duke entered Selection Sunday as the national title favorite after winning the ACC Tournament. Au...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/329" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/329">Duke</a> entered Selection Sunday as the national title favorite after winning the ACC Tournament. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/86" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/86">Auburn</a> briefly jumped Duke as the favorite after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/162169" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/162169">Cooper Flagg</a> injured his ankle during Thursday's quarterfinals and missed the final two games, but Flagg is expected to return for the NCAA Tournament, shifting the odds back in the Blue Devils' favor.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/380" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/380">Florida</a>, meanwhile, has won six straight games heading into the Big Dance, including the SEC Tournament final. The SEC is sending a record 14 of its 16 teams to the NCAA Tournament.</p><p>Auburn, the No. 1 overall seed, is trending in the opposite direction. It lost three of its last four games, leading to Florida moving slightly ahead of Auburn on the oddsboard. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Here's a complete look at the title odds on theScore Bet/ESPN Bet.</p><h3>National Championship odds</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Title odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Duke</td>
<td>+300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Florida</td>
<td>+450</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Auburn</td>
<td>+500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Houston</td>
<td>+800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Alabama</td>
<td>+1700</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tennessee</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>St John's</td>
<td>+2000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Texas Tech</td>
<td>+2500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michigan State</td>
<td>+2500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Iowa State</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Arizona</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Gonzaga</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kentucky</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Maryland</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Wisconsin</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>BYU</td>
<td>+6000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Missouri</td>
<td>+6000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Illinois</td>
<td>+7500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kansas</td>
<td>+7500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Purdue</td>
<td>+7500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Texas A&amp;M</td>
<td>+7500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Clemson</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UConn</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Creighton</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Memphis</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michigan</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ole Miss</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><span style="margin:0px; padding:0px; text-align:left">The odds among the top teams remained relatively unchanged following the bracket reveal. Duke has a particularly easy path to the Elite Eight, where it could face <a target="_blank" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/41">Alabama</a>, so it's unsurprising that the </span>Blue Devils<span style="margin:0px; padding:0px; text-align:left"> are still the favorite.</span></p><p>Despite being the top seed, Auburn has a difficult draw. It could face either <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/287" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/287">Creighton</a> or <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/589" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/589">Louisville</a> in the Round of 32 and is in a region with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/660" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/660">Michigan State</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/501" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/501">Iowa State</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1070" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1070">Texas A&amp;M</a>.</p><p>Florida also has a challenging path to the Final Four. It could face defending back-to-back champion <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/280" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/280">UConn</a> in the Round of 32 and is in a region with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1011" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1011">St. John's</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/627" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/627">Maryland</a>, and other high-pedigree programs. UConn opened the day at +5000 to win the title, but oddsmakers moved it to +10000 after seeing the Huskies' path.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/250" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/250">Clemson</a> also had much better odds (+6000) before its matchups were revealed. The Tigers are now +10000 after they were paired with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/644" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/644">McNeese State</a>, a dangerous mid-major, in the opening round. </p><p>Iowa State's odds jumped from +2500 to +4000 after it was announced that it's in the same region as Auburn and Michigan State. Iowa State guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/96005" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/96005">Keshon Gilbert </a>will be out for the tournament.</p><p>Texas A&amp;M saw a big shift in its odds (from +5000 to +7500). It's a 4-seed with an opening matchup against Yale and is on the same side of the bracket as Auburn.</p><p>Duke has garnered the most money and tickets to win the title with over 20% of national championship bets on the Blue Devils. Auburn, Florida, and Houston have each received around 10% of bets. </p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/30637831/related

Duke remains title favorite after bracket reveal, Florida trails closely

When the Spurs announced that Victor Wembanyama would miss the rest of the season with a blood cl...

<p>When the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/25" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/25">Spurs</a> announced that <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110276" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110276">Victor Wembanyama</a> would miss the rest of the season with a blood clot in his shoulder, he was -2000 to win Defensive Player of the Year. The French phenom was the largest favorite among all award categories, averaging nearly four blocks per game. Those surefire tickets can be tossed in the trash after Wembanyama's health scare ended his season at 46 games played - 19 short of the minimum-game requirement to be eligible for awards.</p><p>Before being shut down, Wemby garnered 36% of bets and 32% of the money wagered on the market. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96054" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96054">Evan Mobley</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/62285" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/62285">Jaren Jackson Jr.</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/70382" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/70382">Lu Dort</a> were the next most-bet players, although none received over 11% of the market share.</p><p>Oddsmakers reacted quickly, resetting the oddsboard for a wide-open race. Here's where it stands now:</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Defensive Player of the Year odds</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Evan Mobley</td>
<td>-250</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dyson Daniels</td>
<td>+450</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jaren Jackson Jr.</td>
<td>+900</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Lu Dort</td>
<td>+1100</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Draymond Green</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jalen Williams</td>
<td>+7500</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>No written rule declares the Defensive Player of the Year must be a big man, but voters have collectively decided the award favors bigs. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/24740" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/24740">Marcus Smart</a> is the only guard to win it this century, and 10 of the last 15 winners were centers.</p><p>Yes, a defensive anchor who can protect the rim, thrive in weak-side rotations, excel at multiple pick-and-roll coverages, and guard on the perimeter is essential for an elite defense. However, true perimeter defenders also deserve consideration unless there's a big man who cuts the floor in half and terrorizes drivers like Wembanyama does.</p><p>Mobley is the favorite to win with roughly a month remaining in the regular season. He's showcased versatility for the NBA's seventh-best defense, he ranks in the top 10 in blocks, and he chases guards on the perimeter. The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/7" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/7">Cavaliers</a> allow four fewer points per 100 possessions when Mobley is on the floor than when he's on the bench.</p><p>Jackson, who's sixth in blocks, makes a similar impact for the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/23" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/23">Grizzlies</a>. Although Memphis doesn't have a top-10 defense, it holds a 107.3 defensive rating when Jackson is on the floor, which would be second in the NBA behind the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/28" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/28">Thunder</a>.</p><p>But why should a big man be guaranteed the award? The NBA's best players - other than <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37604" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37604">Nikola Jokic</a> - are wings and guards, and perimeter defenders are tasked with guarding them. Sure, they might often be relieved in a switch-heavy scheme, but the NBA is as talented as ever.<strong> </strong>Offensive liabilities are rarely on the floor, and skill and shotmaking are at all-time highs, which makes defense more challenging than ever.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102785" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102785">Dyson Daniels</a> has emerged as one of the NBA's most impressive individual defenders, mauling ball-handlers beyond the arc and navigating screens every possession like he's fighting for a roster spot in a Summer League game. The Australian's nickname, "The Great Barrier Thief," comes from his uncanny ability to force turnovers. He averages three steals per game and has totaled a league-leading 184 on the season - 70 more than the second-highest player. Given his nightly assignments on the league's brightest stars, Daniels is a worthy recipient.</p><p>However, an even more deserving defender isn't receiving proper respect on the oddsboard. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a>'s <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3239530" href="https://thescore.com/news/3239530">MVP candidacy</a> is supported by the fact that he's the best player on the best team. Let's apply that same logic to Defensive Player of the Year: Dort is the best defender on the league's best defense.</p><p>Gilgeous-Alexander and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102799" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102799">Jalen Williams</a> also deserve credit for their defensive prowess and two-way ability, which is why they're featured on the oddsboard. The Thunder's defense has so much depth that when a player sits, it doesn't impact the group's defensive dominance. Dort isn't putting up the steal and block metrics that many of his counterparts do, but his on-ball presence and cerebral weak-side rotations are big reasons why the Thunder force the most turnovers in the league.</p><p>There's no better evidence that he's Oklahoma City's best defender than his defensive assignments. He (almost) always guards the opposing team's best player, whether it's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52651" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52651">Jayson Tatum</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93912" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93912">Anthony Edwards</a>, or <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a>.</p><p>In four matchups against Edwards this season, Dort held him to 37% shooting from the field and 27% from three as his primary defender, according to <a href="https://www.nba.com/stats/player/1629652/head-to-head">NBA Stats</a>. He also forced five turnovers. The six-year vet contained Tatum to 30% shooting from the field and 12% from three as his primary defender in two contests. Generally, players shoot under 40% from the floor when guarded by Dort, per Synergy.</p><p>The Thunder guard is built like a linebacker with brute physicality, quick feet, and strong hands. Dribble-heavy guards and post players struggle to move Dort off his spot or break shoulders. He's nearly impossible to screen and puts his matchup in a torture chamber - hence his nickname, "Dorture Chamber."</p><p>Somehow, Dort has never earned an NBA All-Defensive team nod. That will surely change this year. Beyond that, voters should recognize his impact on the league's best defense and name him Defensive Player of the Year.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

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Wemby's injury complicated the DPOY race. Who should win now?

Stats, team success, story arc, and defining moments determine an MVP season in the NBA. Many vot...

<p>Stats, team success, story arc, and defining moments determine an MVP season in the NBA. Many voters have admitted that the narrative surrounding a player and team impacts their votes. As a result, the deck may be stacked against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/26" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/26">Nuggets</a> center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37604" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37604">Nikola Jokic</a>, who has won three of the last four MVP awards and is in the race for the fifth consecutive year.</p><p>Voter fatigue is a real phenomenon in MVP considerations, which explains why <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> only has four trophies even though his reign as the league's best player spanned beyond those four seasons. Jokic's best chance to repeat as the award winner is to reach heights he hasn't before. Somehow, he's doing just that with career highs in points (28.9), assists (10.5), and 3-point percentage (43%). Earlier this week, Jokic said he's playing the best basketball of his life. It still may not be enough.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a> entered the season with the second-best MVP odds (+400) behind <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> (+375) and above Jokic (+460) on theScore Bet/ESPN Bet. Jokic emerged as the front-runner in early December, gaining a substantial lead on Gilgeous-Alexander as a -115 favorite compared to the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/28" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/28">Thunder</a> guard's +400 price. But as the next month unfolded, Gilgeous-Alexander's brilliance, coinciding with the Thunder's historical dominance, gave him the edge. SGA was a -550 favorite when January rolled around, while Jokic was +350.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>This last week featured multiple key moments that typically decide these races, including Jokic's own historic outing. The Serbian center had 31 points, 22 assists, and 21 rebounds in an overtime win against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/19" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/19">Suns</a> on Friday night. He became the first player in NBA history to record a 30-20-20 triple-double. Gilgeous-Alexander entered the day as a -700 favorite, while Jokic was +400. Following Jokic's remarkable performance, the gap shrunk as he moved to +230 and Gilgeous-Alexander fell to -350.</p><p>Two days later, the Thunder handily defeated the Nuggets on national television. Gilgeous-Alexander scored 40 points, and Jokic was held to nine second-half points. The odds reverted to -700 and +400 for Gilgeous-Alexander and Jokic, respectively.</p><p>The next day, Denver and Oklahoma City met again. The Nuggets prevailed in Monday's rematch, moving the odds to -475 for the Thunder guard and +300 for the Nuggets center, where they currently sit.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Moment/Date</th>
<th>Gilgeous-Alexander MVP odds</th>
<th>Jokic MVP odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>March 6</td>
<td>-700</td>
<td>+400</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jokic 30-20-20 game</td>
<td>-350</td>
<td>+230</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Thunder beat Nuggets (Gilgeous-Alexander scores 40)</td>
<td>-700</td>
<td>+400</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nuggets beat Thunder in rematch the following day</td>
<td>-475</td>
<td>+300</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>While key matchups and performances alter the odds, oddsmakers are clearly adamant that Gilgeous-Alexander remains the considerable favorite. However, almost 80% of the money wagered on the MVP award over the last week has been on Jokic, and he's garnered 35% of the handle (money wagered) throughout the season compared to 27% on Gilgeous-Alexander. Is the Thunder superstar's lead as wide as the odds indicate?</p><p>The Nuggets are the 2-seed in the West and have the league's fourth-best record. Jokic has dished the league's second-most assists and is tied for sixth in 3-point percentage among players who average at least four attempts per game. Let me remind you that Jokic is a 6-foot-11 center who can barely jump over a piece of paper. That shooting and passing combination from an unathletic big man has never existed in the NBA.</p><p>Jokic's value to his team is greater than anyone's in the league. He leads the NBA in player impact estimate, an advanced stat that measures a player's overall contribution to a game. Gilgeous-Alexander is close behind with the second-highest rating. ESPN's new advanced statistic, <a href="https://espnanalytics.com/nba-net-pts">net points</a>, evaluates how much a player contributes to the team's point differential. Unsurprisingly, Jokic is first and Gilgeous-Alexander is second in those rankings as well.</p><p>When Jokic is on the court, the Nuggets outscore opponents by 10.9 points per 100 possessions, tied for the league's second-best net rating behind the Thunder. When Jokic sits, the Nuggets are outscored by 9.4 points per 100 possessions - the NBA's second-worst net rating, ahead of only the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/15" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/15">Wizards</a>.</p><p>The drop-off isn't as drastic (although still massive) when Gilgeous-Alexander sits because of the Thunder's depth and talent. Oklahoma City outscores opponents by 16.9 points per 100 possessions with him on the floor, which is the NBA's best net rating. When he sits, the Thunder outscore opponents by 2.9 points per 100 possessions, which is still a top-10 net rating.</p><p>Assessing value solely with on/off splits, the Nuggets fall from a championship contender with Jokic to a team vying for the top pick without him. The Thunder are the favorites in the West with Gilgeous-Alexander but are still an above-average squad without him.</p><p>However, Gilgeous-Alexander's remarkable individual season and team success will resonate with voters. He's the best player on a team that's on pace for at least 65 wins and currently has the second-best net rating in NBA history behind the 1995-96 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/26" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/26">Chicago Bulls</a>.</p><p>SGA leads the league in scoring with 32.7 points per game. He's the best three-level scorer with incredible efficiency around the rim, from mid-range, and from three. He's also the NBA's most effective pick-and-roll scorer (1.13 points per possession), the most effective transition scorer (1.24 points per possession), and the fourth-most effective isolation scorer (1.08 points per possession).</p><p>Gilgeous-Alexander has 40 30-point games, 11 40-point games, and four 50-point games, and he's scored at least 20 points in 59 straight contests. It's hard to dispute his consistency, efficiency, and winning.</p><p>Many voters have suggested they won't decide until the season's final week. Both players have compelling cases and are worthy of the honor. But it's hard to imagine Gilgeous-Alexander fumbling an award he's seemingly due to earn, considering Jokic already has three on his mantel.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/30573950/related

SGA remains MVP betting favorite despite push from Jokic

The Big Dance earns all the attention, but true college basketball fans know the madness starts w...

<p>The Big Dance earns all the attention, but true college basketball fans know the madness starts with the conference tournaments. Many mid-major tourneys are underway or have already wrapped up, meaning some programs have punched their ticket to the NCAA Tournament. We already explored which bubble teams are favored to make March Madness and how many programs to expect from each conference <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3238444" href="https://thescore.com/news/3238444">here</a>.</p><p>The four major conferences begin their tournaments this week. Find out who will cut down the nets and earn automatic bids from each major conference.</p><h3>SEC Tournament 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>Auburn</td>
<td>+155</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Florida</td>
<td>+300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Alabama</td>
<td>+375</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tennessee</td>
<td>+600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kentucky</td>
<td>+2000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Texas A&amp;M</td>
<td>+3000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Missouri</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mississippi State</td>
<td>+7500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ole Miss</td>
<td>+7500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Arkansas</td>
<td>+20000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Georgia</td>
<td>+20000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LSU</td>
<td>+30000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Oklahoma</td>
<td>+30000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>South Carolina</td>
<td>+30000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Texas</td>
<td>+30000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Vanderbilt</td>
<td>+30000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/86" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/86">Auburn</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/380" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/380">Florida</a> project to be No. 1 seeds when the bracket gets revealed Sunday. Nothing could happen in Nashville this week that would change that.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>After knocking off Auburn on the road last Saturday, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/41" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/41">Alabama</a> deserves similar recognition as a championship contender. The Crimson Tide have gone through lulls while playing a brutal schedule over the past month, but they also went on a seven-game win streak beginning at the end of January.</p><p>Alabama's last seven games have been against ranked opponents, so the team is no stranger to facing elite competition on a short turnaround. However, its kryptonite is its porous defense, which has allowed over 90 points to its opponent in four of its last seven games. But the Tide have the SEC's best scoring offense, with five players averaging double figures. The offense, which takes and makes the most threes in the conference, is prolific enough to carry Alabama to a championship.</p><p><strong>Pick: Alabama +375</strong></p><h3>Big 10 Tournament 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 State</td>
<td>+250</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Maryland</td>
<td>+450</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Illinois</td>
<td>+600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Wisconsin</td>
<td>+600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Purdue</td>
<td>+650</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UCLA</td>
<td>+850</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michigan</td>
<td>+1300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Oregon</td>
<td>+2200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Indiana</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ohio State</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>USC</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Minnesota</td>
<td>+20000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Northwestern</td>
<td>+20000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rutgers</td>
<td>+20000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Iowa</td>
<td>+30000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Let's get this out of the way: I'm a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/627" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/627">Maryland</a> alum. But there's nothing biased about picking one of the country's hottest teams to win the Big Ten Tournament. This analysis is from my head, not my heart.</p><p>Maryland has won 11 of its last 13 games, and its two losses were by a combined six points. The Terps have the best starting five in the conference but lack bench production. That could hurt Maryland when it has to earn three wins in three days, but its starters rarely show any signs of exhaustion.</p><p>While many college units are one-dimensional, the Terps aren't. The program has an elite offense with a balanced scoring attack and a top-10 defense in the country, according to <a href="https://kenpom.com/">KenPom</a>. Maryland wins defensive battles that end in the 60s or shootouts in the 80s. Few squads in the conference - or country - can say the same. It's the only Big Ten team in the top three in both points per game and opponent points per game.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/660" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/660">Michigan State</a> is the worthy favorite as the regular-season champion and the winner of seven straight entering the postseason. It took a half-court heave at the buzzer for the Spartans to defeat Maryland two weeks ago. If they meet in the finals, you'll be glad you took the Terps at this price.</p><p><strong>Pick: Maryland +450</strong></p><h3>Big 12 Tournament 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>Houston</td>
<td>Even</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Texas Tech</td>
<td>+375</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Iowa State</td>
<td>+550</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Arizona</td>
<td>+700</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>BYU</td>
<td>+1200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kansas</td>
<td>+1200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Baylor</td>
<td>+3300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>West Virginia</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cincinnati</td>
<td>+15000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Arizona State</td>
<td>+25000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kansas State</td>
<td>+25000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Colorado</td>
<td>+30000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Oklahoma State</td>
<td>+30000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>TCU</td>
<td>+30000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UCF</td>
<td>+30000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Utah</td>
<td>+30000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Houston has won 10 straight games going into the Big 12 Tournament and picked up just one loss in a conference expected to send at least eight teams to the NCAA tourney. Despite the Cougars' dominance, there's no value in betting a squad to win three games in three days at even money.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/501" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/501">Iowa State</a> was considered one of the nation's best programs before finishing 6-6 over its final 12 games. But the record doesn't tell the whole story. The Cyclones dealt with various injuries to their top players during that stretch, including <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/96149" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/96149">Curtis Jones</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/96005" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/96005">Keshon Gilbert</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/110360" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/110360">Milan Momcilovic</a>. However, Iowa State should enter the Big 12 Tournament healthy.</p><p>The Cyclones have the nation's sixth-best defense, per KenPom. Before the injury bug plagued its conference schedule, Iowa State had one of the conference's most efficient offenses.</p><p>Houston will likely coast to victory, but it's always worth banking on a semi-long shot in March.</p><p><strong>Pick: Iowa State +550</strong></p><h3>ACC Tournament 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>Duke</td>
<td>-350</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Louisville</td>
<td>+500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Clemson</td>
<td>+600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>North Carolina</td>
<td>+2500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SMU</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Wake Forest</td>
<td>+6000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>California</td>
<td>+25000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Florida State</td>
<td>+25000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Georgia Tech</td>
<td>+25000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Notre Dame</td>
<td>+25000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Pittsburgh</td>
<td>+25000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Stanford</td>
<td>+25000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Syracuse</td>
<td>+25000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Virginia</td>
<td>+25000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Virginia Tech</td>
<td>+25000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/329" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/329">Duke</a> dominated the ACC all season en route to a 19-1 conference mark. The Blue Devils didn't just defeat opponents; they annihilated them. They finished conference play with a plus-434 point differential, the largest by a power conference team in over 60 years. Duke's lone conference loss was a road defeat to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/250" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/250">Clemson</a> on Feb. 8.</p><p>It's hard to imagine a scenario where Duke doesn't roll through the ACC Tournament, especially with Clemson and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/589" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/589">Louisville</a> - the only other NCAA tourney locks from the conference - on the other side of the bracket. Duke is understandably priced at an extremely short number, which isn't worth touching. Although the Blue Devils will likely win, let's try to find value in another squad.</p><p>Clemson is the obvious choice because it proved it could beat Duke, but Louisville has been one of the nation's hottest teams over the last month.</p><p>The Cardinals have won nine straight, with their last loss coming Feb. 1. They also defeated Clemson - a team they'd likely face in the tournament semis - in January. Duke beat Louisville on Dec. 8, but the Cardinals have improved dramatically over the last few months.</p><p>Pat Kelsey took over a program that combined for five ACC wins over the previous two seasons. Louisville won 18 conference games this campaign and is certain to make the NCAA Tournament. But first, the Cardinals have to compete for a conference championship.</p><p><strong>Pick: Louisville +500</strong></p><h3>Big East Tournament 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>St. John's</td>
<td>+130</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Creighton</td>
<td>+375</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UConn</td>
<td>+475</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Marquette</td>
<td>+475</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Xavier</td>
<td>+900</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Villanova</td>
<td>+1200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Georgetown</td>
<td>+6000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Butler</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Providence</td>
<td>+12500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DePaul</td>
<td>+20000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Seton Hall</td>
<td>+20000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Let's target a bid-stealer to win the Big East. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1145" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1145">Villanova</a>'s only chance of making the NCAA Tournament - and head coach Kyle Neptune's only hope of keeping his job - is if it wins the Big East Tournament.</p><p>While the Wildcats have some brutal losses to weak opponents, they've shown they have the firepower to defeat the conference's best teams. Villanova has wins over <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1011" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1011">St. John's</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/620" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/620">Marquette</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/280" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/280">UConn</a> and close losses to Creighton. It has the talent to win four games in four days, and it's on the opposite side of the bracket from St. John's.</p><p>Villanova has a top-20 offensive rating on KenPom, but its defense held it back throughout the season.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/76510" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/76510"> Eric Dixon</a>, who leads the nation in scoring, will be the best player in every matchup. The Wildcats will play like they have nothing to lose, which could be scary for the rest of the conference.</p><p><strong>Pick: Villanova +1200</strong></p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/30571299/related

Conference tournament previews: Are favorites Duke, Houston worth picking?

Is there a better postseason in sports than college basketball's? Probably not. With the regular ...

<p>Is there a better postseason in sports than college basketball's? Probably not. With the regular season in the rearview, it's time for the madness. Before the NCAA Tournament begins next week, the major conference tournaments serve as an appetizer.</p><p>A few teams on the bubble must prove their worth to the selection committee over the next week if they want to join the Big Dance. Let's look at a few bubble teams' odds of earning a bid on theScore Bet/ESPN Bet and how to bet on the number of teams from each conference that will go dancing.</p><h3>To make the NCAA Tournament odds</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Yes</th>
<th>No</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>North Carolina</td>
<td>+500</td>
<td>-1000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ohio State</td>
<td>+250</td>
<td>-350</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Xavier</td>
<td>-240</td>
<td>+180</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/756" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/756">North Carolina </a>had a prime opportunity to punch its ticket last Saturday when it hosted <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/329" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/329">Duke</a>. A win would've bolstered the Tar Heels' resume enough to put them on the right side of the bubble. North Carolina only trailed by one at halftime, a promising sign. However, Duke outscored North Carolina by 12 in the second half to pull away with a comfortable road win. The Tar Heels have work to do in the ACC Tournament. Of course, they'll earn an automatic bid if they win the tourney - they have the fourth-best odds at +2500 behind Duke, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/589" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/589">Louisville</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/250" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/250">Clemson</a>, the only three ACC teams guaranteed bids.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>UNC finished 13-7 in an incredibly weak conference. <a href="https://www.espn.com/espn/feature/story/_/page/bracketology/ncaa-bracketology-2025-march-madness-men-field-predictions">ESPN bracketologist Joe Lunardi</a> has the Tar Heels as his second team out as of Monday. If they win the first two ACC Tournament games against inferior opponents, they'll likely match up with the Blue Devils in the semifinals. North Carolina's only chance of getting in the tournament would be to defeat the nation's No. 2 team in the rivals' third meeting this season.</p><p>Lunardi projects <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/808" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/808">Ohio State </a>as one of the last four teams in, but oddsmakers are surprisingly doubting its chances. The Buckeyes finished 10th in the Big Ten and will play <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/500" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/500">Iowa</a> in their first Big Ten Tournament game. With a win, Ohio State will take on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/483" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/483">Illinois</a>, a prime opportunity to boost its resume. Although Ohio State has three Quad 2 losses, it has six Quad 1 wins. It also competes in a more difficult conference than North Carolina and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1252" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1252">Xavier</a>. The Buckeyes have favorable metrics compared to other bubble teams, ranking 34th on <a href="https://kenpom.com/">KenPom</a> and 36th in the <a href="https://www.ncaa.com/rankings/basketball-men/d1/ncaa-mens-basketball-net-rankings">NET</a>. There's a greater chance of hearing their name called on Sunday than the odds suggest, which could make them worth a bet.</p><p>Xavier is the last team in the dance, according to Lunardi's projections. The Musketeers finished 13-7 in the Big East but must make some noise in their conference tournament to help their chances, especially with bid stealers lurking. There will inevitably be at least one team with no chance of earning an at-large bid that improbably wins its conference tournament and earns an automatic bid - like last year's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/762" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/762">NC State</a> squad, which rode that momentum to the Final Four.</p><p>When that happens, certain teams' bubbles will burst. Xavier could be in that group.</p><h3>Over/Under teams from each conference in the field</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Conference</th>
<th># of teams</th>
<th>Over/Under odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>SEC</td>
<td>12.5</td>
<td>-200/+160</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Big Ten</td>
<td>9.5</td>
<td>+150/-190</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Big 12</td>
<td>7.5</td>
<td>-350/+250</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The SEC will likely make history on Selection Sunday by breaking the Big East's 2011 record for the most teams from a single conference to earn an NCAA Tournament bid. The current record is 11 teams, but the SEC should have at least 12 teams selected - six of which may be 3-seeds or better. Here are the locks:</p><ul>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/86" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/86">Auburn</a></li>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/380" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/380">Florida</a></li>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/41" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/41">Alabama</a></li>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1063" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1063">Tennessee</a></li>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/531" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/531">Kentucky</a></li>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1070" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1070">Texas A&amp;M</a></li>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/680" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/680">Ole Miss</a></li>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/684" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/684">Missouri</a></li>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/682" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/682">Mississippi State</a></li>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1141" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1141">Vanderbilt</a></li>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/413" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/413">Georgia</a></li>
</ul><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/71" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/71">Arkansas</a> isn't considered a lock because it's technically on the bubble as one of Lunardi's last four byes. However, Arkansas' one-point win over Mississippi State on Saturday should be enough for the Razorbacks to earn a spot. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/811" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/811">Oklahoma</a> is on the right side of the bubble as one of Lunardi's last four in, but a bid stealer could knock out the Sooners. The odds are heavily priced toward over 12.5 teams for the SEC, so oddsmakers think Oklahoma is safe for now. The only other SEC team with a chance is <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1069" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1069">Texas</a>, but it's on the first-four-out line. The Longhorns need an epic SEC Tournament run to propel them into the picture.</p><p>Nine teams is the most the Big Ten has ever sent to the tournament. The coast-to-coast conference could eclipse that mark in its first season as an expanded, 18-team group. Here are the Big Ten locks:</p><ul>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/660" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/660">Michigan State</a></li>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/627" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/627">Maryland</a></li>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/872" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/872">Purdue</a></li>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/659" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/659">Michigan</a></li>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1234" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1234">Wisconsin</a></li>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1114" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1114">UCLA</a></li>
<li>
<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/483" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/483">Illinois</a> </li>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/823" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/823">Oregon</a></li>
</ul><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/490" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/490">Indiana</a> is technically on the bubble, but it would be shocking if the Hoosiers didn't make it after winning four of their final five games. </p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/808" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/808">Ohio State</a> would be the 10th Big Ten program. Oddsmakers don't believe in the Buckeyes' chances, so the under 9.5 teams is offered at shorter odds. As previously discussed, the Buckeyes have a solid case based on their metrics and resume. However, things could come down to bid stealers playing spoiler. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/730" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/730">Nebraska</a> was in the field of 68 a few weeks ago but lost its final five games of the season, killing its chances. While the Cornhuskers are still listed as a next-four-out team, they have no shot after failing to qualify for the Big Ten Tournament.</p><p>Now on to the Big 12, a typically top-heavy conference. However, its depth should produce eight tournament bids. The seven locks are as follows:</p><ul>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/471" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/471">Houston</a></li>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1079" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1079">Texas Tech</a></li>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/155" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/155">BYU</a></li>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/69" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/69">Arizona</a></li>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/501" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/501">Iowa State</a></li>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/524" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/524">Kansas</a></li>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1190" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1190">West Virginia</a></li>
</ul><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/109" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/109">Baylor</a> is the only questionable team, but it's currently listed as one of the last four byes. The Bears' nonconference wins over Arkansas and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1011" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1011">St. John's</a> are enough to gift the Big 12 its eighth team in the dance.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/30568516/related

NCAA tourney bubble betting: Who's in, who's out from major conferences

Hall of Fame coach Phil Jackson famously said a team must win 40 games before losing 20 to be con...

<p>Hall of Fame coach Phil Jackson famously said a team must win 40 games before losing 20 to be considered a true contender.</p><p>His theory has held up: Over 90% of all NBA champions attained 40 victories before reaching the 20-loss mark. There are exceptions, of course - the 2004 <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/8">Pistons</a> and 2006 <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/13">Heat</a> are the latest examples, excluding shortened seasons.</p><p>The only teams who have or will reach 40 wins before 20 losses are the <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/28">Thunder</a> (44-10), <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/7">Cavaliers</a> (44-10), and <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/1">Celtics</a> (39-16). Three other teams have a chance: the <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/3">Knicks</a> (36-18), <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/23">Grizzlies</a> (36-18), and <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/26">Nuggets</a> (36-19).</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>With that in mind, let's examine the latest championship odds, using Jackson's theory to distinguish contenders from pretenders.</p><h3>NBA championship 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>Celtics</td>
<td>+220</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Thunder</td>
<td>+230</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cavaliers</td>
<td>+750</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Knicks</td>
<td>+1300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nuggets</td>
<td>+1400</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Lakers</td>
<td>+1600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Warriors</td>
<td>+3300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Clippers</td>
<td>+3300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Grizzlies</td>
<td>+3300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bucks</td>
<td>+3300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mavericks</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rockets</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em>*Teams greater than 40-1 not listed</em></p><h3>Contenders</h3><p><strong>Celtics (+220)</strong></p><p>After a 6-6 stretch in January, Boston won seven of its next eight games before the break, including wins over the Knicks and Cavs.</p><p><a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45455">Jaylen Brown</a> has struggled with efficiency: His 55% true shooting percentage is his worst in seven seasons. Team injuries and inconsistencies have played a part, sure, but he needs to step up.</p><p>This group lost 18 games last season and already has 16 losses this campaign. The Celtics are still the favorites, but it won't be a seamless path to the Finals against a more competitive East.</p><p><strong>Thunder (+230)</strong></p><p>Oklahoma City has the league's best net rating and its smothering defense also ranks first in the NBA. The Thunder value possessions more than anyone, leading the league in turnover and opponent turnover percentage. Rebounding is still an issue, largely because <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102801">Chet Holmgren</a> and <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60051">Isaiah Hartenstein</a> have only played three games together. Still, the Thunder are 19-1 against the East.</p><p>Oh, and Oklahoma City boasts MVP favorite <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai-Gilgeous Alexander</a> as well as a deep bench of reliable defenders and solid scorers. It'd be a surprise if the Thunder aren't playing in June.</p><p><strong>Cavaliers (+750)</strong></p><p>Kenny Atkinson's pace-and-space approach has led the Cavs' to the NBA's best offensive rating and helped them to a tie for the league's best overall record. With <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44998">Donovan Mitchell</a>, <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/70243">Darius Garland</a>, <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96054">Evan Mobley</a>, and <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53393">Jarrett Allen</a>, Cleveland always has a dangerous guard-big combo on the floor. The Cavs surrounded them with lethal shooting wings, including deadline acquisition <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53037">De'Andre Hunter</a>. </p><p>Mobley's leap as a dominant driver, enhanced decision-maker, and improved and willing 3-point shooter allowed the Cavs to take another step. Cleveland should enter the playoffs as the East's top seed with a chance to dethrone Boston.</p><p><strong>Nuggets (+1400)</strong></p><p><a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37604">Nikola Jokic</a> is arguably the NBA's best player, and the Nuggets always have a chance with him on the floor.</p><p>But Denver will go as far as <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44995">Jamal Murray</a> takes it. Murray was brilliant during the Nuggets' championship run two seasons ago but, partly due to injuries, was a shell of himself for the next 18 months. However, he's looked healthy and explosive of late: Murray's averaging 25 points on 42% 3-point shooting in February, his highest monthly average since the 2022-23 season. The Nuggets are 20-7 in contests the 27-year-old has played in since Dec. 23rd. With this revived version of Murray unlocked, the Nuggets deserve contender status.</p><h3>Pretenders</h3><p><strong>Rockets (+4000)</strong></p><p>There's no precedent for teams without playoff experience making a deep run. The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/16" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/16">Warriors</a>' core suffered early playoff exits before it broke through in the mid-2010s. The Grizzlies burst onto the scene with a young group during the 2020-21 season but have won just one playoff series since. The Thunder missed the playoffs two seasons ago and made it last campaign as the No. 1 seed before losing in the second round to the Mavs.</p><p>The <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/22">Rockets</a> are following a similar road map. They missed the playoffs last season, then skyrocketed to the No. 4 seed in the West behind the league's fourth-best defense. <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96116">Jalen Green</a>, <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96113">Alperen Sengun</a>, <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102778">Jabari Smith Jr.</a>, <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110271">Amen Thompson</a>, and <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102780">Tari Eason</a> have zero playoff experience. </p><p>The Warriors, Grizzlies, and Thunder all had reliable No. 1 scoring options and still couldn't get over the hump in their initial playoff run. The Rockets' ascension has been similar, but they lack a dependable scoring option in tight games. </p><p><strong>Lakers (+1600)</strong></p><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/18" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/18">Lakers</a>' roster has serious size and defensive limitations with minimal center options. They'll be forced to play small with leaky perimeter resistance defensively.</p><p>While their offense should be exceptional - <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a>, and <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96101">Austin Reaves</a> rotate between on-ball and off-ball roles - teams rarely add stars halfway through a campaign and embark on a championship run. The counterpoint, of course, is no team has ever acquired a star as gifted as Doncic midseason. Still, Los Angeles may need some time to get in the groove. </p><p><strong>Mavericks (+4000)</strong></p><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/21" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/21">Mavs</a> traded one of the NBA's best players in Doncic, and <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11373">Anthony Davis</a>, <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110268">Dereck Lively</a>, and <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60087">Daniel Gafford</a> are now out with injuries. Even with a sturdy defense when healthy, they're limited offensively - <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/6154" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/6154">Kyrie Irving</a> is their only scoring threat on the perimeter.</p><p>Dallas' current worry is how to control its understandably unruly fans who are furious with the organization after the disastrous Doncic deal.</p><p><strong>Bucks (+3300)</strong></p><p>Labeling <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a> and the <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/10">Bucks</a> a contender when they've been average is difficult. Milwaukee's net rating is outside the top 10. It's 5.2 when the superstar is on the floor, still trailing the Celtics, Cavs, and Knicks in the East.</p><p>Trading for <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37799">Kyle Kuzma</a> helps with frontcourt size and durability. It also allows the Bucks to play smaller lineups with Antetokounmpo at the five. However, the Greek Freak and <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/5343">Damian Lillard</a> still lack enough reliable help to compete with the myriad of weapons on the Celtics, Cavs, and Knicks.</p><p><strong>Clippers (+3300)</strong></p><p>The <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/17">Clippers</a>' chances depend on whether <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/4200">Kawhi Leonard</a> can regain his All-NBA form. So far, it doesn't look like it: He's averaging 16.3 points on 46% shooting from the field, his lowest mark in a decade. In his 15 outings since returning from a knee injury, Leonard has averaged 26 minutes per night, but he's struggling to create space and get downhill. He's also attempting 2.1 free throws per game, his fewest since 2013-14.</p><p><a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/351">James Harden</a> and <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/12144">Norman Powell</a> are having terrific seasons, and the Clippers' second-best defense has led them to the sixth seed. But Los Angeles isn't going anywhere unless Leonard flips a switch.</p><h3>Maybe contenders, Maybe pretenders</h3><p><strong>Knicks (+1300)</strong></p><p>New York can compete with anyone thanks to superstar <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45223">Jalen Brunson</a> and the lethal offense surrounding him. The Knicks have the second-best offensive rating and its starting unit leads the league in scoring. However, they lack depth - their bench is last in scoring - and their defense isn't good enough to win four playoff series. </p><p>While <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37817" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37817">Karl-Anthony Towns</a> is an offensive juggernaut, he's not a reliable rim protector and is frequently hunted in the pick-and-roll. <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37879">Mikal Bridges</a> has been disappointing defensively as a supposed wing-stopper. <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/62053">Mitchell Robinson</a>, who has been out for the entire season with an injury, could solve defense and depth concerns when he returns to the lineup.</p><p><strong>Grizzlies (+3300)</strong></p><p>We can't discount the Grizzlies - they've reached 36 wins by the All-Star break, but they're closer to pretenders than contenders. <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/62077">Ja Morant</a>, <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/62285">Jaren Jackson Jr.</a>, and <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93901">Desmond Bane</a> have made plenty of trips to the postseason together, but Memphis relies on many players who haven't.</p><p>The Grizzlies lead the league in bench scoring, a luxury that leads to regular-season victories. However, the bench matters less with shortened rotations in the playoffs. The Grizzlies rely on <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121734">Jaylen Wells</a>, <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121683">Zach Edey</a> - both rookies - and <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96118">Santi Aldama</a> to play over 20 minutes per game.</p><p><strong>Warriors (+3300)</strong></p><p>Golden State is 3-1 since landing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2809" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2809">Jimmy Butler</a>, who looks reinvigorated and perfectly fits the Warriors' system. </p><p>Butler has averaged 21 points, seven rebounds, and 5.3 assists in San Francisco. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/148">Stephen Curry</a> is scoring 31 points per contest since Butler's arrival after failing to average more than 24 points in any month this season.</p><p>As the 10th seed, the Warriors still face an uphill battle to make the playoffs. Golden State likely doesn't own enough complementary pieces to make it far but deserves the benefit of the doubt until we see more of Butler's impact.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/30307452/related

NBA Bet or Bail: Separating contenders from pretenders

Selection Sunday is less than a month away. Football season is over, and the NBA is on break, so ...

<p>Selection Sunday is less than a month away. Football season is over, and the NBA is on break, so it's the perfect time to catch up on college basketball's happenings. Certain preseason favorites like <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/329" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/329">Duke</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/41" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/41">Alabama</a> have remained atop the oddsboard, while others like <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/524" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/524">Kansas</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/280" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/280">UConn</a> have taken a tumble.</p><p>Below, we dive into the contenders with the best odds and some sleepers to look out for when March rolls around.</p><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>Auburn</td>
<td>+350</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Duke</td>
<td>+400</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Florida</td>
<td>+900</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Alabama</td>
<td>+1000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Houston</td>
<td>+1000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Iowa State</td>
<td>+1500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tennessee</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kentucky</td>
<td>+3000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Purdue</td>
<td>+3000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>St. John's</td>
<td>+3000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Arizona</td>
<td>+3300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Texas Tech</td>
<td>+3300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UConn</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kansas</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Wisconsin</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michigan State</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Texas A&amp;M</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Gonzaga</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Illinois</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michigan</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Marquette</td>
<td>+6000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Missouri</td>
<td>+6000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Creighton</td>
<td>+6600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Clemson</td>
<td>+7500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Maryland</td>
<td>+8000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>Contenders</h3><p><strong>Auburn (+350)</strong></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/86" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/86">Auburn</a>'s dominance in a historically difficult conference has solidified the team as the nation's best. It opened at +2500 to win the national title but is now down to +350.</p><p>Bruce Pearl's squad has been No. 1 in the AP Poll for over a month and No. 1 on <a href="https://kenpom.com/">KenPom</a> for most of the season. The Tigers have 14 Quad 1 wins, six more than the next best team. They're 11-1 in the SEC, a conference expected to earn at least 12 NCAA Tournament bids.</p><p>Auburn leads the country in offensive efficiency, according to KenPom. Naismith College Player of the Year candidate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/87250" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/87250">Johni Broome</a> headlines Auburn's unstoppable inside-out offensive approach. Six Tigers players are averaging double figures. Auburn reloaded after last year's disappointing first-round upset loss to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1254" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1254">Yale</a> in the tourney and could steamroll its way to a Final Four (-120) and championship.</p><p><strong>Duke (+400)</strong></p><p>Duke was the favorite (+900) entering the season and has lived up to expectations. Although behind Auburn, the Blue Devils' odds have shortened dramatically since the preseason. Their freshman class, particularly <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/162169" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/162169">Cooper Flagg</a>, is as advertised and has carried Duke to a 23-3 overall record and a 15-1 ACC mark.</p><p>Flagg is averaging 19.7 points, 7.7 rebounds, and four assists while leaving no doubt he'll be the No. 1 pick in the upcoming NBA draft. He's the favorite (-150) to win Player of the Year, but Duke isn't a one-man show. Fellow freshmen <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/162168" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/162168">Kon Knueppel</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/162172" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/162172">Khaman Maluach</a> have blossomed in their respective roles. It's hard to win primarily with freshmen, but Duke's first-year players have the maturity of upperclassmen. Plus, the group is filled with veteran contributors like <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/103281" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/103281">Tyrese Proctor</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/89009" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/89009">Sion James</a>.</p><p>The ACC is a remarkably weak conference, so Duke isn't consistently tested like contenders in the SEC, Big Ten, and Big 12. However, the Blue Devils played a difficult nonconference schedule and proved they have the talent to compete with anyone.</p><p><strong>Florida (+900)</strong></p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/380" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/380">Florida</a>'s offense operates like a symphony. Co-conductors <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/96362" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/96362">Walter Clayton Jr</a>. and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/85616" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/85616">Alijah Martin</a> orchestrate a connected group that feeds off spacing and ball movement. The Gators have the perfect blend of scoring guards and physical bigs. They're eighth in the nation in offensive rebounding percentage, creating extra possessions because of their relentlessness on the glass.</p><p>Florida has a top-10 offense and defense, and it's won four straight - including a win at Auburn - and seven of its last eight.</p><p><strong>Alabama (+1000)</strong></p><p>Despite falling to Auburn over the weekend, Alabama is still 21-4 overall and 10-2 in the SEC. The Crimson Tide won seven straight before losing to the Tigers.</p><p>Alabama has the nation's third-most efficient offense, according to KenPom. The Tide's identity is playing fast and shooting threes early and often, attempting the most 3-pointers in the SEC by a wide margin. Alabama has a reliable and deep bench with seven active players averaging at least seven points. Alabama depends on many offensive weapons, but <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/87489" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/87489">Grant Nelson</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/93780" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/93780">Mark Sears</a> are the engines.</p><p>The defense remains a concern but has improved since Alabama's Final Four run last year.</p><p>Alabama's biggest problem: It has the SEC's worst turnover margin. Turnovers result from playing at a high pace, but Alabama must take better care of the ball. However, of all the contenders, I'm most confident in Alabama cutting down the nets.</p><p><strong>Houston (+1000)</strong></p><p>It's no secret that a Kelvin Sampson-coached squad will always be one of the country's best defensive teams - third in KenPom's defensive rating this season - but <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/22" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/22">Houston</a> is also top 10 in offensive rating.</p><p>The Cougars have just one loss in the Big 12 and are primed to earn a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament for the second straight season. They lost to Duke in last year's Sweet 16 but are better equipped offensively to make a run next month. Houston has a balanced scoring attack with four guys averaging double figures, including <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/84316" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/84316">L.J. Cryer</a> contributing 14.3 points per game.</p><p>Houston has a difficult schedule to close the season with four of its final six games against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/501" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/501">Iowa State</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1079" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1079">Texas Tech</a>, Kansas, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/109" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/109">Baylor</a>. We'll learn more about this group over the next few weeks.</p><h2>Sleepers </h2><p><strong>St. John's (+3000)</strong></p><p>It's probably unfair to list a team atop the Big East standings as a sleeper, but <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1011" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1011">St. John's</a> is still something of a long shot at 30-1.</p><p>Rick Pitino revitalized a dying program and made it nationally relevant. St. John's is 13-2 in the Big East with wins over UConn, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/287" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/287">Creighton</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/620" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/620">Marquette</a> and is on its way to a first tournament appearance in six years.</p><p>The Red Storm are a physical, gritty group with the nation's second-best defensive rating, according to KenPom. They're a nightmare for opposing offenses who can't handle ball pressure and physicality on the glass.</p><p>St. John's main issue is that it's shooting 29% from three, the 13th-worst mark among 364 Division I schools. The Red Storm often dominate inside and have enough reliable late-game scorers, starting with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/103426" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/103426">RJ Luis Jr.</a></p><p>Their defense and toughness earn them a spot on the list, but it'll be challenging to go on a deep tournament run with serious shooting woes.</p><p><strong>Michigan (+5000)</strong></p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/659" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/659">Michigan</a> sits atop the Big Ten in Dusty May's first season in Ann Arbor.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/104554" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/104554"> Danny Wolf</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/88860" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/88860">Vladislav Goldin</a> form an unstoppable pairing in the pick-and-roll. Wolf is a towering presence with tremendous ball-handling and driving skills, while Goldin is a traditional big who perfectly complements his fellow 7-footer. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/102981" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/102981">Tre Donaldson</a> is also one of the better scoring guards in the conference.</p><p>The Wolverines lost four of their first six games that were decided by four points or fewer, but they've turned those late-game struggles around. Michigan has won its last six games by four points or fewer. That might be unsustainable, but Michigan is hitting its stride in late February and has the veteran-heavy roster to do damage in March.</p><p><strong>Creighton (+6600)</strong></p><p>Creighton is on a two-game skid after losses to UConn and St. John's but remains one of the nation's most underrated teams.</p><p>This isn't a typical high-powered Creighton offense. However, when <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/85101" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/85101">Ryan Kalkbrenner</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/89116" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/89116">Steven Ashworth</a> - who both average at least 16 points - are playing well, the unit dominates. It's propelled the team to a second-place standing in the Big East.</p><p>The Bluejays' 3-point shooting numbers are down from the last two seasons, hurting their offensive efficiency. However, they still have nights where they're hot from deep. All it takes is a solid three-week stretch to make a run.</p><p><strong>Maryland (+8000)</strong></p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/627" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/627">Maryland</a> is one of six teams with a top-20 offensive and defensive rating on KenPom. Kevin Willard consistently produces elite defenses, but this Maryland offense is even more efficient. The Terps have won nine of their last 11 games and deserve more recognition as a legitimate Final Four threat.</p><p>Projected lottery pick <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/121822" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/121822">Derik Queen</a> and veteran big <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/95513" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/95513">Julian Reese</a> form one of the country's best frontcourt duos. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/102898" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/102898">Ja'Kobi Gillespie</a> is a dynamic scoring guard, and Maryland has the perfect complementary pieces in the opening unit. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/103348" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/103348">Rodney Rice</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/86342" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/86342">Selton Miguel</a> complete the best starting five in the Big Ten. The Terps' biggest issue is non-existent bench production, but rotations are always shortened in March.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

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CBB championship odds: Auburn, Duke lead pack, plus 4 sleepers to watch

All-Star Weekend in San Francisco is upon us.   As the league celebrates the game's best, let's l...

<p>All-Star Weekend in San Francisco is upon us. </p><p>As the league celebrates the game's best, let's look at the odds for noteworthy events and give out picks for the Three-Point Contest, Slam Dunk contest, and All-Star Game MVP.</p><h3>Three-Point Contest odds</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Damian Lillard</td>
<td>+350</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Buddy Hield</td>
<td>+400</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Norman Powell</td>
<td>+600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Darius Garland</td>
<td>+625</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tyler Herro</td>
<td>+625</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cam Johnson</td>
<td>+800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jalen Brunson</td>
<td>+800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cade Cunningham</td>
<td>+1000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/5343" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/5343">Damian Lillard</a> is justifiably the favorite as the back-to-back 3-point champion. He's a sniper with unlimited range. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/24735" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/24735">Buddy </a><span style="margin:0px; padding:0px; text-align:left"><a target="_blank" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/24735">Hield</a>, meanwhile, is</span> having a down shooting season (36.7% from three), but his experience has him listed as one of the favorites. This is Hield's fourth time in the contest, and he won it in 2020.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/12144" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/12144">Norman Powell</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/70243" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/70243">Darius Garland</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37658" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37658">Cam Johnson</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96056" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96056">Cade Cunningham</a> are newbies to the competition, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45223" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45223">Jalen Brunson</a> participated last year but came up short, and<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69689" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/69689"> Tyler Herro</a> was in it two years ago.</p><p>Although shooting balls off racks isn't quite the same as a catch-and-shoot shot, looking at players' catch-and-shoot statistics can provide a glimpse into their potential performance.</p><p>Powell is the best catch-and-shoot shooter of the group, as he drills 46% of his looks. Garland trails slightly as a 45% catch-and-shoot shooter. Brunson has the third-best percentage at 43%.</p><p>There's value on Brunson, who will be out for redemption after a disappointing showing last year. He failed to advance past the first round despite being two makes shy of the first-round leader. That's likely why he has the second-worst odds, but the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/3" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/3">Knicks</a> superstar is undoubtedly one of the best shooters in the league.</p><p><strong>Pick</strong>: Jalen Brunson +800</p><h3>Slam Dunk contest odds</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Mac McClung</td>
<td>-160</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Andre Jackson Jr.</td>
<td>+450</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Matas Buzelis</td>
<td>+550</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Stephon Castle</td>
<td>+550</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The Slam Dunk contest isn't the marquee event it used to be, but it's still a fun competition with entertaining dunks from high fliers.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96103" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96103">Mac McClung</a> returns as the back-to-back champion and is looking to earn a three-peat. He's the overwhelming favorite after wowing judges the last two years. The 6-foot-2 guard looks like he's jumping off a springboard when he leaps and has the highest vertical of the group. But he's up against worthy competition.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110242" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110242">Andre Jackson Jr. </a>is a ferocious dunker with elite hops and a vertical of over 40 inches. The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/10" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/10">Bucks</a>' second-year starter has a chance if he showcases his vicious dunks while using his peers as props.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121704" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121704">Matas Buzelis</a> is the tallest of the group. At 6-foot-10, the Bulls rookie has posterized many defenders, and his guard skills allow him to explode to the rim.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121685" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121685">Stephon Castle</a> is tied with Buzelis for the worst odds, but he's my sleeper to take home the hardware. The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/25" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/25">Spurs</a> guard has elevated over taller defenders all season, often posterizing big men who dare to jump. His athleticism lets him take off from outside the lane, and the basketball world will discover his dunking prowess Saturday night.</p><p><strong>Pick: </strong>Stephon Castle +550</p><h3>All-Star Game odds</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team Shaq (+110)</th>
<th>Team Chuck (+190)</th>
<th>Team Kenny (+450)</th>
<th>Team Candace (+900)</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>LeBron James<br>Steph Curry<br>Jayson Tatum<br>Kevin Durant<br>Damian Lillard<br>James Harden<br>Jaylen Brown<br>Kyrie Irving</td>
<td>Nikola Jokic<br>Shai Gilgeous-Alexander<br>Victor Wemanyama<br>Pascal Siakam<br>Alperen Sengun<br>Karl-Anthony Towns<br>Donovan Mitchell<br>Trae Young</td>
<td>Anthony Edwards<br>Jalen Brunson<br>Jaren Jackson Jr.<br>Jalen Williams<br>Darius Garland<br>Evan Mobley<br>Cade Cunningham<br>Tyler Herro</td>
<td>TBD</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Adam Silver was so fed up with the lack of effort in the All-Star Game that he completely revamped the format, creating four teams that will compete in a mini-tournament. Three teams are comprised of the 24 All-Stars (eight per team), and the fourth team is Team Candace, the winner of Friday night's Rising Stars Game.</p><p>Handicapping the All-Star Game is difficult without knowing the players' effort levels. Will anyone show enthusiasm with this new format after almost nobody exhibited an ounce of effort in the last few years? Based on the rosters, Team Shaq has the best squad. Perimeter players and great shooters typically win these exhibition games as players are reluctant to drive to the rim, and Team Shaq has the most perimeter threats. But it's anyone's guess who will win a meaningless game the players don't care about.</p><h3>All-Star Game MVP</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Steph Curry</td>
<td>+500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</td>
<td>+750</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Victor Wembanyama</td>
<td>+750</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LeBron James</td>
<td>+900</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Anthony Edwards</td>
<td>+1100</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Damian Lillard</td>
<td>+1200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Donovan Mitchell</td>
<td>+1600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jayson Tatum</td>
<td>+1600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kevin Durant</td>
<td>+1600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Karl-Anthony Towns</td>
<td>+1700</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jalen Brunson</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em>*Players longer than 18-1 not listed</em></p><p>The MVP must play in the championship game, and Team Kenny has the worst squad, so it's wise to stay away from players on his team. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/148">Steph Curry</a> is the favorite as the hometown star in the Bay Area - players playing in front of the home crowd typically try harder to put on a show - but let's go slightly down the board and target a first-time All-Star.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110276" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110276">Victor Wembanyama</a> has made it clear he's in the All-Star Game to compete. He's cut from a different cloth than many of his All-Star counterparts, and he'll surely bring his competitive drive to the game.</p><p><strong>Pick: </strong>Victor Wembanyama +750</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

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NBA All-Star Weekend betting: 3-point shootout, Slam Dunk contest, MVP

As the league enters the All-Star break following Thursday's action, teams will have roughly 25 g...

<p>As the league enters the All-Star break following Thursday's action, teams will have roughly 25 games remaining in the regular season. With the campaign winding down and entering a hiatus, let's dive into each conference's standings and playoff races.</p><h3>East standings, playoff odds</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Standings (record)</th>
<th>Playoff odds</th>
<th>East champion odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1. Cavaliers (44-10)</td>
<td>N/A</td>
<td>-110</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2. Celtics (39-16)</td>
<td>N/A</td>
<td>+280</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3. Knicks (36-18)</td>
<td>N/A</td>
<td>+500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4. Pacers (30-23)</td>
<td>N/A</td>
<td>+3300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5. Bucks (29-24)</td>
<td>N/A</td>
<td>+1200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6. Pistons (29-26)</td>
<td>-350</td>
<td>+25000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7. Magic (27-29)</td>
<td>-750</td>
<td>+3300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8. Heat (25-27)</td>
<td>-400</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9. Hawks (26-29)</td>
<td>+135</td>
<td>+30000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10. Bulls (22-33)</td>
<td>N/A</td>
<td>+50000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>11. Sixers (20-34)</td>
<td>+290</td>
<td>+3000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>12. Nets (20-34)</td>
<td>N/A</td>
<td>+50000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em>*Teams with more than 35 losses not listed</em></p><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/7" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/7">Cavaliers</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>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/9" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/9">Pacers</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/10" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/10">Bucks</a> are considered locks to make the playoffs, which explains why postseason odds aren't available.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>That leaves seven teams fighting for three spots. The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/8" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/8">Pistons</a> currently hold the coveted 6-seed. Teams placing between seventh and 10th will compete in the play-in tournament to determine the Nos. 7 and 8 seeds.</p><p>Detroit, which had the NBA's worst record last season, has already doubled last year's win total. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96056" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96056">Cade Cunningham</a> has emerged as an All-Star, averaging a career-high 25.4 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 9.4 assists. His playmaking has dramatically improved, and the Pistons have added the right blend of veteran wings to surround him, including <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/6332" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/6332">Tobias Harris</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44947" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44947">Malik Beasley</a>. Even without backcourt partner <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102756" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102756">Jaden Ivey</a> - the Pistons' second-leading scorer who's out indefinitely with a leg injury - Detroit is staying afloat in the East playoff picture.</p><p>The Pistons' offense often falls apart without Cunningham on the floor. However, their recent acquisition of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30613" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30613">Dennis Schroder</a> should help in non-Cunningham minutes and keep Detroit in a playoff spot.</p><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/13" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/13">Heat</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/11" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/11">Hawks</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/14" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/14">Magic</a> are only separated by one game. Miami is finally past the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2809" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2809">Jimmy Butler</a> saga and obtained <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31937" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/31937">Andrew Wiggins</a> at the deadline, a quality starter who'll help bolster the Heat's top-10 defense. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69689" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/69689">Tyler Herro</a> is enjoying a career-best season and was rewarded with a first All-Star selection. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53731" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53731">Bam Adebayo</a> has disappointed as his points, field-goal percentage, and rebounding numbers are down. However, if he, and Miami's young core, can finish the campaign strong, the team will be in a good spot when the play-in tournament begins.</p><p>The Hawks are the worst team among the three, leading to a 42% implied probability of making the playoffs. Although <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60633" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60633">Trae Young</a> is having an All-Star season and leads the NBA in assists, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96072" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96072">Jalen Johnson</a>, Atlanta's second-best player, is out for the remainder of the campaign with a torn labrum. The Hawks were sellers at the deadline, shipping off <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53037" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53037">De'Andre Hunter</a> - their second-leading scorer - for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/24860" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/24860">Caris LeVert</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/24291" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/24291">Georges Niang</a>. Before its recent stretch of four wins in six games, Atlanta lost eight straight and tumbled down the standings. It has the seventh-worst offensive rating over the last 15 contests.</p><p>Making matters worse for Atlanta, the Magic should move up the standings. Injuries have decimated Orlando this season, as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102767" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102767">Paolo Banchero</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96086" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96086">Franz Wagner</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96087" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96087">Jalen Suggs</a> - the Magic's three leading scorers - have played six games together. Banchero and Wagner are back, but Suggs has missed the last nine contests with a quad injury. The Magic are 4-7 since Banchero and Wagner returned.</p><p>Orlando has the league's third-best defense but owns the second-worst offense. The offense should improve once the team's stars return to form after the All-Star break amid the NBA's fifth-easiest remaining schedule, per <a href="https://www.tankathon.com/remaining_schedule_strength">tankathon.com</a>.</p><p>And then there are the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/4" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/4">Sixers</a>, who oddsmakers aren't completely giving up on with a 25% implied probability of qualifying. Philadelphia was one of the preseason favorites to win the East, but injuries derailed its campaign. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31932" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/31932">Joel Embiid</a> has played in just 17 of the Sixers' 54 games. Even with Philly's Big Three of Embiid, <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/1889" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/1889">Paul George</a> on the court together, the Sixers lost to the Cunningham-less Pistons, the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a>-less Bucks, and the 17-38 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/5" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/5">Raptors</a> in the last week.</p><p>The Sixers could still make the play-in now that the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/6" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/6">Bulls</a> have entered a full-blown tank mode by trading <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30738" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30738">Zach LaVine</a>, but Philadelphia's ugly season is on life support. It might be better to pull the plug and rest Embiid for the rest of the year.</p><h3>West standings, playoff odds</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Standings (record)</th>
<th>Playoff odds</th>
<th>West champion odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1. Thunder (44-9)</td>
<td>N/A</td>
<td>-110</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2. Grizzlies (36-18)</td>
<td>N/A</td>
<td>+1100</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3. Nuggets (36-19)</td>
<td>N/A</td>
<td>+575</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4. Rockets (34-20)</td>
<td>N/A</td>
<td>+1600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5. Lakers (32-20) </td>
<td>-3000</td>
<td>+700</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6. Clippers (30-23)</td>
<td>-280</td>
<td>+1700</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7. Timberwolves (30-25)</td>
<td>-400</td>
<td>+2200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8. Mavericks (29-26)</td>
<td>+105</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9. Kings (28-26)</td>
<td>+200</td>
<td>+6600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10. Warriors (27-27)</td>
<td>+100</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>11. Suns (26-28)</td>
<td>+340</td>
<td>+2500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>12. Spurs (23-29)</td>
<td>+500</td>
<td>+7500</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em>*Teams with more than 30 losses not listed</em></p><p>Twelve of the West's 15 teams have a legitimate chance of making the playoffs. Last year, the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/22" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/22">Rockets</a> finished 11th at 42-42, the best record for an 11-seed in history, showcasing how deep the West is.</p><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/28" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/28">Thunder</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/26" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/26">Nuggets</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/23" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/23">Grizzlies</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/22" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/22">Rockets</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/18" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/18">Lakers</a> are almost guaranteed a playoff spot barring injuries or an epic late-season collapse. The trade deadline had a massive impact on other bubble teams' chances.</p><p>Trading <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> certainly hurt the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/21" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/21">Mavericks</a>' odds, but the situation worsened for the disparaged franchise when <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11373" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11373">Anthony Davis</a> re-injured his adductor in his debut, and he's now out for at least the next few weeks. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60087" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60087">Daniel Gafford</a> will miss the next two weeks, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110268" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110268">Dereck Lively</a> won't return from an ankle injury for at least a couple more weeks. Without a center, the Mavs should fall in the standings. However, they could still earn a spot in the postseason if they're healthy by the play-in, which has led to a 48% implied probability.</p><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/17" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/17">Clippers</a>' second-best defense has brought Los Angeles to the 6-seed. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/12144" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/12144">Norman Powell</a>'s breakout season and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/351" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/351">James Harden</a>'s steady scoring carried the offensive load as they waited for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/4200" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/4200">Kawhi Leonard</a>'s return. Leonard hasn't looked like himself since returning from a knee injury in January. His scoring and efficiency are down, and his free-throw attempts have dried up as he struggles to explode to the rim.</p><p>Only 2.5 games separate seventh through 10th. The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/20" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/20">Kings</a> damaged their chances when they traded <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53733" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53733">De'Aaron Fox</a>, even though they acquired LaVine. Sacramento is 5-6 in its last 11 games and has the league's fifth-worst defense during that span. The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/27" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/27">Timberwolves</a> are on a two-game skid amid a disappointing season, but their talent should carry them to the playoffs.</p><p>Despite being the 10-seed, Butler's arrival has given the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/16" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/16">Warriors</a> better odds of making the playoffs than teams ahead of them. Golden State is 2-1 since Butler debuted, and he'll clearly fit in the Warriors' system as a secondary creator alongside <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/148">Steph Curry</a>. If there was a time to bet on the Warriors, it's now.</p><p><span style="margin:0px; padding:0px; text-align:left">The <a target="_blank" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/19">Suns</a>, who have the toughest remaining schedule in the NBA, are a mess and can't defend a high school team. They've lost seven of their last nine games as everything falls apart after openly trying to trade <a target="_blank" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11887">Bradley Beal</a> and <a target="_blank" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant</a>.</span></p><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/25" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/25">Spurs</a> are sleepers to make the playoffs. They're three games back of the 10-seed, so they have an uphill battle. However, the Spurs were winners at the trade deadline, trading for Fox without giving up members of their young core. San Antonio needs frontcourt depth, especially defensively, for when <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110276" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110276">Victor Wembanyama</a> is on the bench. However, as the Fox-Wembanyama pairing blossoms, so should the Spurs' standing in the West.</p><p>The play-in tournament has created a thrilling final few months of the season. Odds will continue to shift, but the All-Star break provides the perfect opportunity to bet on teams to emerge motivated.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

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NBA playoff race: Which teams are favored to make the postseason?

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