Kansas Jayhawks.

Las Vegas Strip Move Play.

Game 683.

2:15 PM PST/5:15 PM EST.

Sporting an 8-1 overall record, the sixth-ranked Kansas Jayhawks are well-rested, having not played since December 1. They face a Missouri Tigers team that is undefeated thus far this season at 9-0. Even with that flawless record, the Tigers are not ranked in the Top-25. There is a good reason for that. They have yet to face a true opponent. Playing teams like Southern Indiana, Penn, Lindenwood, SIU Edwardsville, Mississippi Valley State, Coastal Carolina, Houston Christian and South East Missouri State is the reason why they own a 9-0 mark. Their only true opponent was Wichita State and that game was their most competitive as they eked out a four-point victory in overtime. Kansas has already taken down such notables as Duke, NC State, Wisconsin, and Seton Hall. Their one loss was a bad one at the end of November, getting routed by Tennessee. However, they did bounce back strongly and have won and covered their last two outings. Last year‘s meeting with the Tigers was an annihilation, crushing them 102-65. Missouri does possess the No. 1 scoring offense in the nation, averaging over 93.0 points per game. But once again they have not faced a team anywhere near the level as they are going to face today. The Jayhawks also possess a very good defense, holding opponents to just 65.4-points per game and under 40% shooting from the floor. Take Kansas. Thank you.

Oklahoma.

High Roller Play.

Game 610.

10:00 AM PST/1:00 PM EST.

The ninth-ranked Razorbacks are 8-1 on the season. To be quite honest, they really haven’t faced too many tough opponents. They lost to Creighton a few weeks ago and then followed that up having a tough time with San Diego State, eking out a four-point win in overtime. Their last three opponents were Troy, San Jose State, and UNC Greensboro. They are stepping up in class here big-time, facing a very strong Oklahoma squad. And they must do it without their biggest presence in Trevon Brazile. The forward is their strongest presence on the floor, one of their top-scorers, and their best rebounder. He will be sorely missed here as the Sooners are loaded up front and rotate four very physical, very big forwards. With wins over Nebraska, Seton Hall, and Mississippi, this team has faced some tough opposition. They played strong against Villanova a week ago in a heartbreaking four-point loss. Their defense ranks 13th in the nation, allowing just 57.9-points per game and will frustrate Arkansas. Oklahoma took last year‘s meeting 88-66 and has been money against the spread going 6-1 ATS their last seven games versus teams with a winning record, 6-0 ATS their last six games played on a neutral site, and 4-1 ATS their last five games played overall. Take the Sooners. Thank you.

Temple Owls.

Bookie Buster Play.

Game 615.

10:00 AM PST/1:00 PM EST.

Temple comes into today’s match up red-hot, winning and covering their last four outings. They face a Penn team that is ice-cold, riding a three-game slide straight up, going 1-2 ATS. Towards the end of November, the Quakers faced several subpar teams to pad their record. But their last three opponents were a big step up in class, hence their losing streak. The Owls are another big step up in class for them here today. Both squads have solid starters. However, Temple is much deeper overall and also possess four players that are either averaging or flirting with double-digits. They took last year‘s meeting 81-72. Oh, and by the way the road team is 16-6 ATS the last 22 meetings in this series. Take the Owls. Thank you.

UConn Huskies.

BOOKIE BUSTER PLAY.

Game 705.

6:00 PM PST/9:00 PM EST.

No. 5 UConn is not just a perfect 9-0 this season. They are also 8-0-1 against the spread. I have read that this is the first true road test of the season. And I get it. However, on neutral courts this team has already taken down the likes of Oregon, Alabama, and Iowa State, covering each of those outings. This is a very well-balanced squad. Offensively, they have six-players either flirting with or averaging nine-points per game or more. Their starting backcourt of Hawkins and Newton are combining for 24.7-points per game. They have a very strong front court consisting of three starters or 6’9” or taller. They are led on the floor by forward, Adama Sonogo, who is accounting for 18.7-points per game and 6.9-rebounds per game. Florida is a decent team. They are 6-3 on the season but are being a bit overvalued as they have just covered four of their nine outings. They hit a rough patch in November covering just one of six games across nearly three weeks and dropped three of those six, losing to Florida Atlantic, Xavier, and West Virginia. Their last two games, they absolutely blew it up. But their opponents were Florida A&M and Stetson. I believe they’ll come in here with a false sense of security and very overconfident. Offensively, they can score. It is their defense that is in big trouble here against one of the most explosive offenses in the nation. It’s not just that folks. But the Huskies also possess one of the toughest and most frustrating defenses in college basketball. They rank 20th in the nation allowing only 58.7-points per game and 10th nationally grabbing 26.3-defensive boards a game. They have accumulated these statistics playing better competition my friends. The Gators are 2-12 ATS their last 14 games played following a straight up win and 4-9 ATS their last 13 games played overall. Take Connecticut. Thank you.

Indiana State Sycamores.

High Roller Play.

Game 589.

5:00 PM PST/8:00 PM EST.

Indiana State owns the best record in the Missouri Valley Conference at 8-1. This does include a record of 1-0 in League play. Southern Illinois, which is also 1-0 in Conference action, is an overall 5-3. After losing four straight in this series, the Saluki‘s did take both of last year‘s meetings. However, these are two very different teams this year. The Sycamore’s are playing some great basketball. They currently rank 15th nationally in scoring, averaging over 84.1-points per game. They’ve already notched impressive victories over such notables as Drake and Miami-Ohio. Southern Illinois is posting good numbers defensively. However outside of an early-November victory over Oklahoma State, they have been very unimpressive thus far. They lost to both UNLV and Saint Louis. And also needed overtime to eke out a victory against Cal Baptist. Offensively, they leave a lot to be desired. They lost their biggest and strongest big man Scottie Ebube about a month ago. This is the matchup he will be sorely missed. Indiana State has a very talented backcourt and a very strong, physical frontcourt. The Sycamore’s are 6-2 ATS their last eight games played following a straight up win. The Saluki‘s are 1-4-1 ATS the last six games played overall. Take Indiana State. Thank you.

Sports fans, my college basketball conference GAMES OF THE WEEK are 100% this season. Today we continue to stay perfect in my NCAA Basketball GOW’S as I have my BIG TEN GAME OF THE WEEK in the Maryland Terrapins/Wisconsin Badgers matchup. Not only will you win big with this Big Ten GOW Winner, but you could also watch your money roll in as it is being aired on ESPN2. 

Maryland Terrapins.

Big Ten GOW.

Game 645.

6:00 PM PST/9:00 PM EST.

Maryland is a perfect 8-0 on the campaign. They are 1-0 in conference play. And the Terrapins have covered seven of their eight 2022 contests. They have already notched wins over such notables as St. Louis, Miami, and Illinois. This team is loaded with talent, possessing four double-digit scorers and a couple of big men upfront that are monsters on the boards. As a matter of fact, they are averaging over 80.8-points per game and are only allowing 61.0-points per game. They are excellent on both ends of the court on the glass. And are deep on the bench as well. At 6-2, Wisconsin is a pretty good team themselves. They’ve taken down a couple of big teams too. However, in their last few outings they took a loss at home against Wake Forest in which they were a 6-point favorite. And then a few days ago, won a grueling overtime contest at Marquette. They are not as explosive offensively. They’re only averaging 66.4-points per game. And they are not very good on the offensive boards. Don’t expect them to get too many second-chance shots. Their strength lies on their defense which is allowing 59.9-points per game. However, their last two outings, their defense got blown up for 78 and 77-points. Look for the Terrapins to get a little revenge from last years, 70-69 heartbreaking loss to the Badgers. The road team is 3-0-1 ATS the last four meetings in this rivalry. Maryland is 4-0 ATS the last four games played versus teams with a winning record and 6-1 ATS the last seven games played following a straight up win. Take the Terrapins. Thank you.

Phoenix. Suns.

OM PLAY.

Game 543.

5:40 PM PST/8:40 PM EST.

The Suns have dominated the regular season play with the Mavericks over the past three or four campaigns. But you may also recall last years Western Conference Finals in which Dallas took the final two games by 27 and 33-points to end Phoenix’ season. In their only matchup this season, the Suns eked out a two-point victory at home against the Mavericks nearly two months ago. Fast forward to tonights meeting, and Phoenix comes in here winning seven of their last eight straight up, which includes a 38-point blowout in San Antonio last night. Dallas had a day off to rest following their 21-point drubbing over New York at the Garden a few nights ago. That was their second win and their last three outings. However, that was also just their second win in their last seven outings. And only their third cover in the last 10. The Suns are still looking for a little pay back from being ousted from last year’s Western Conference Finals and they can exact a bit of vengeance here tonight. I just don’t see the Mavericks contending offensively with the seventh-ranked scoring offense in the NBA. When it comes to defense, both teams are very good. But because the Suns are so strong offensively it will slow Dallas down in transition. Oh, one more item, the Mavericks are one of the worst in the league on the offensive boards and they are facing one of the stingiest and most ferocious defensive rebounding squads in the NBA. So, second-chance shots will be at a minimum. I know the Suns have a couple guys that are banged-up here. It doesn’t matter folk. They will still be very competitive and keep this game close. Getting a few baskets is the play. Take Phoenix. Thank you

Boston Celtics.

Las Vegas Strip Move.

Game 535.

4:40 PM PST/7:40 PM EST

Yes, I am well aware of the fact that Toronto is 9-2 SU at home this season. But Boston is pretty darn good on the road themselves, going 8-3 straight up away from home in 2022. These two teams share the Atlantic division as the Celtics are atop with an overall record of 19-5 and the Raptors sit tied for second just above .500 at 12-11. For our purposes, the Celtics have covered three straight in this rivalry. And going back a bit, seven of the last 10 meetings. They come in here a bit hotter and with the No. 1 scoring offense in the NBA. As a matter fact the rank in the top-three in every major offensive category. I just don’t see the Raptors keeping pace with them on the scoreboard offensively.  Boston is 9-0 ATS the last nine meetings in Toronto. Take the Celtics. Thank you.

Mississippi Rebels.

Slam Dunk Play.

Game 699.

4:30 PM PST/7:30 PM EST.

Getting Mississippi coming off their first loss of the 2022/2023 campaign is going to be a very tough task for Memphis. The Rebels began the campaign 6-0 and went to the mat with Oklahoma last week, losing 59-55. This is a very talented team. But what makes them so strong is their defense. They have a swarming and frustrating “D“ that is allowing just 62.9-points per game and is one of the best in the nation on the defensive glass, currently ranking 13th nationally. Offensively, they have three players all averaging double-digits. And quite a few solid big men up front. I think this is a perfect opportunity for Mississippi to take advantage of a Memphis team that might come in here a little overconfident coming off three consecutive wins over teams like Nebraska, Stanford, and North Alabama. However, I believe the Tigers are going to get caught looking ahead as they are entering a stretch in which four of their next five games are against SEC teams. Up next is a game in which they host Little Rock. Then they face No. 15 Memphis, then Auburn, followed by No. 11 Alabama, and then they host Texas A&M. This is a very rough stretch for this team and I believe they will get caught looking ahead today. The Rebels know the Tigers very well and they have covered six straight meetings in the series including the most recent back in 2019 and 2021. By the way, they took a December meeting a year ago 67-63. Take Mississippi. Thank you.

Oklahoma Sooners.

Oddsmakers Mistake.

Game 605.

9:30 AM PST/12:30 PM EST.

My friends, there is no question that Oklahoma should be a very small favorite in this match up with Villanova today. Following their season opening loss, the Sooners have now won seven consecutive games straight up, covering their last three. They are doing it with a combination of accurate shooting and frustrating defense. They are hitting over 48% from the floor while their “D“ is allowing just 56.9-points per game. On the other hand, Villanova is in for a very long season. They have dropped four in a row straight up and have only covered one game going back to April of last season, riding a 1-7 no cover streak. Oklahoma is 5-0 ATS the last five games played on the road. Villanova is 0-4 ATS the last four games played at home. Take Oklahoma. Thank you.

I OWN THE PAC-12. Every season I get you paid in this conference in college basketball. Well, get ready to get paid once again this season. And today we tip-off the conference schedule with my PAC-12 GAME OF THE WEEK. If you only play one game today make sure it is this one.

UCLA Bruins.

Pac-12 GOW.

Game 779.

7:30 PM PST/10:30 PM EST.

UCLA is without question a much stronger team than Stanford. And being at this is their first conference matchup of the campaign, you can rest assure that the Bruins will come out here to make a statement. Following back-to-back hard-fought losses to Illinois and Baylor, UCLA has since decimated both Pepperdine and Bellarmine. On the other hand, Stanford is in for a very long and arduous season. They are just 3-4 with some very ugly losses. They are getting devoured by better teams. I just don’t see how a team that averages 66.6-points per game can contend offensively with the explosive offense of UCLA, which is averaging over 83.0-points per game. No matter how you look at it, the Bruins outclass the Cardinal. Not only will they beat them inside with a bigger stronger front court, but they have some of the most accurate shooters in the nation, averaging over 50% from the field and almost 40% from downtown. They won and covered both meetings in this conference rivalry last season by 23 and nine-points. This is a very short price to lay with a much better team. Stanford is just 2-6 ATS the last eight games played at Maples Pavilion. Take UCLA. Thank you.

Arizona State Sun Devils.

Las Vegas Strip Move.

Game 767.

5:30 PM PST/8:30 PM EST.

Since their November 13th OT loss to Texas Southern, Arizona State has won and covered four consecutive contests. They’ve had a couple of pushovers during their hot streak. However, they also took down Virginia Commonwealth and Michigan with authority, winning both of those outings outright as underdogs. They enter this matchup without one of their star forwards, Marcus Bagley. But not to worry, this will be the sixth game without him on the floor. Other than that, this is a very healthy team. They’re also confident knowing they took the last matchup with Colorado last February. The Buffaloes are a decent team. They’ve notched wins over such notables as the volunteers and the Aggie‘s already. However, they have looked pretty bad against several lesser teams. Colorado has dropped games against Grambling, UMass, and Boise State already. They come off a very difficult contest in which they eked by Yale 65-62. They have failed to cover three of their last four outings. Both of these teams are pretty good offensively. Defensively Arizona State is much stronger. They are holding opponents to less than 60-points per game and less than 34% shooting. Oh, by the way they crushed Grambling more than a week ago by 31-points. The Buffaloes are 6-13-2 ATS the last 21 games played at home and 0-4 ATS the last four games played following a straight up win. Take the Sun Devils. Thank you.

Virginia.

Game 635.

6:30 PM PST/9:30 PM EST.

No. 3 Virginia has already tallied victories over a couple of ranked teams. They’ve taken down Baylor and Illinois with decisive wins and covers in both contests. Granted, Michigan is at home and sports a 5-1 record. But playing against the undefeated Cavaliers is definitely a step up in class for the Wolverines. Michigan has had problems with lesser teams and for our purposes, covering the point spread. They’ve already lost against Arizona State. And they failed to cover for all their last five against teams like Eastern Michigan, Arizona State, Ohio, and Jacksonville State. Both teams score about the same amount of points. But once again this season the Cavaliers possess a monster defense, yielding only 57.6 points per game. They’re also one of the best in the nation on the defensive glass. This means the Wolverines won’t get as many second chance shots as they like. This will be a game changer here. One more item guys. Look for Virginia to absolutely decimate Michigan from beyond the arc as they are hitting approximately 45% from downtown. This is a place where the Wolverines always have a problem defending. Virginia is 4-1 ATS the last five games played on the road Michigan is 1-5 ATS the last six games played at home. Take the Cavaliers. Thank you.

Wisconsin.

High Roller.

Game 634.

6:00 PM PST/ 9:00 PM EST.

Wisconsin is playing some great basketball. The Badgers are already 5-1 and have taken down such notables as Stanford, Dayton, and USC. And went to overtime suffering a one-point heartbreaking loss against Kansas. One thing they have done has covered, going 5-1 ATS this season already. This does include three consecutive ATS covers against the Flyers, the Jayhawks, and the Trojans. Wake Forest has played good basketball as well. But let’s be honest, they just haven’t played the same level of competition as their counterpart. And the fact that they had some problems with Utah Valley and lost to Loyola Marymount, cannot be ignored. While the Demon Deacons are accounting for over 81 points per game, they just cannot contend with the Badgers stifling and frustrating defense that’s only yielding 54 points per game. Wisconsin is 4-1 ATS the last five games played at home. Take the Badgers. Thank you.

Houston Rockets.

Slam Dunk.

Game 513.

6:10 PM PST/9:10 PM EST.

The Houston Rockets own one of the poorest records in the NBA at 5-14. However, one thing they do is get us bettors paid, going 11-8 ATS this season. They are starting to show signs of life, winning their last two games straight up and covering three in a row and four of their last five against the spread. While the Denver Nuggets are one of the better teams in the NBA atop the Northwest division at 12-7, they are crushing anyone who supports them at the betting window. There is a reason for this my friends. They are severely overvalued by the odds makers. Put a pin in that we will come back around to it. They are currently without several key players. Recently added to the injured list is Jeff Green, who is expected to be out this evening. And Michael Porter Jr., who is most-likely going to be sitting tonight. (Always do your due diligence and check status on both). The Nuggets are not that deep with experienced backup players folks. To be honest with you, both teams statistics as far as scoring offensively and defensively are very similar. Going back to the ATS situation for Denver, they are just 6-13 ATS the last 19 at home, 1-7 the last eight home games versus teams with a losing road record, and 7-19 ATS the last 26 following a straight up win. This is way too many points to give a game team like Houston. Take the Rockets. Thank you.

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Minnesota Golden Gophers.

Game 804.

7:30 PM PST/10:30 PM EST.

While both California Baptist and Minnesota entered this matchup 3-1 straight up at 1-3 against the spread, that is the where their similarities end. Granted, the Lancers just took down the Huskies with authority a few nights ago. But I will tell you this is not a team that could step up in class. A season ago, they took a 24-point loss at Texas, and a 24-point loss at Arizona and the first month or so of the regular season. I know Minnesota is kind of a doormat in the Big Ten. However, they do face a higher level of competition and do like to beat up on lesser opponents. A season ago, this team started the campaign rattling off seven consecutive wins, going 5-2 against the spread. And mind you, not all of those teams were inferior adversaries. They took down Western Kentucky, Princeton, Pitt, and Mississippi State. Then after a loss at Michigan State they took down Michigan. Through the season they held their own ATS against better conference opponents. Although Cal Baptist has a big strong front court, they just don’t have the depth or the athleticism to match up in this contest. They are 1-6 ATS the last seven games played overall. Meanwhile Minnesota is 6-1 ATS the last seven games played on a neutral site. Take the Golden Gophers. Thank you.

Utah Jazz.

Las Vegas Strip Move Play.

Game 550.

7:00 PM PST/10:00 PM EST.

Following a few of their big names departing for other teams, many didn’t expect the Utah Jazz to be very competitive this season. Well, they are currently sitting at 10-5 and playing excellent basketball. Getting them off a loss in Philadelphia a few nights ago in which Joel Embiid had one of the best nights a player has had so far this NBA campaign, and having them return home to Salt Lake where they are perfect 5-0 straight up this season, compels us to side with the Jazz. By the way they have covered four of the five at Vivint Arena. The New York Knicks are off a very rough stretch in which they play five road games out West in seven nights. They dropped a game at home on Monday to the Oklahoma City Thunder. That was their sixth straight up loss over the last nine outings. And the seventh time they failed cover in those same nine outings. On both sides of the court, they are significantly our class. While they are relatively healthy, Utah is one of the few teams currently in the NBA that are listening absolutely no injured players. The Jazz have won and covered the last three meetings in this series all quite easily. By the way, the Knicks are 0-4 ATS the last four meetings in Utah. Take Utah. Thank you.

Dallas Mavericks.

Fast Break.

Game 557.

4:10 PM PST/7:10 PM EST.

The Dallas Mavericks were running hot, winning four ina row prior to last nights loss in Orlando. Not only was it a loss, but it was the first time this season that Luka Dončić was held under 30 points. You can expect the Mavs to come back here with a vengeance and redeem themselves as the star forward will light up the scoreboard. They will exploit the Washington Wizards on both sides of the court. Without question, both offensively and defensively Dallas is far superior. The Wizards have a problem scoring points this season, ranking 29th and accounting for just 107.0-points per game. They’re also absolutely horrible on the offensive glass. And one of the worst in the league from beyond the arc. These are each areas Dallas ranks in the top-five defensively. I just don’t feel the Wizards can keep pace offensively against the stifling Mavericks defense. Dallas is 41-18-1 ATS the last 60 games following a straight up loss and 7-3 ATS the last 10 meetings in Washington. Washington is 5-21-1 ATS the last 27 following a straight up win and 1-4-1 ATS the last six at home. Take the Mavericks. Thank you.

Cleveland Cavaliers.

SLAM DUNK.

Game 529.

7:40 PM PST/10:40 PM EST.

Guys, I honestly don’t know in what alternative universe this line should be just two-points. Cleveland is one of the best teams in the NBA at 8-1 straight up. And more importantly for our purposes, 8-1 against the spread. They have covered four straight road games during their eight-game win streak. Meanwhile Los Angeles it’s just 1-3 at the Crypto.com Arena straight up. And have failed to cover all four at home in the 2022 campaign. They currently rank 30th in the league offensively, averaging just a 102.3 points per game. They must face the third ranked Cavaliers defense yielding just 103.9 points per game. Not only that, but Cleveland also ranks second in the NBA on the defensive glass. L.A. won’t get too many second-chance shots here. When the Cavaliers have the ball, they must deal with a very formidable Clippers defense. However, being that they’re so strong defensively, I feel this will help them in transition. And they will light up the scoreboard. I mean let’s face it, they already average nearly 14-points per game more than Los Angeles. Cleveland took the last two meetings both straight up and against the spread. Los Angeles owns absolutely deplorable ATS numbers going 1-6 ATS the last seven versus teams with a winning percentage above .600, 1-5 ATS the last six following an ATS loss, and 2-7 ATS the last nine overall. Take the Cavaliers. Thank you.

Milwaukee Bucks.

Slam Dunk.

Game 547.

7:10 PM PST/1010 PM EST.

The Milwaukee Bucks are the only undefeated team left in the NBA. And trust me when I tell you they will not let the Minnesota Timberwolves stand in their way of staying perfect. Not only has Milwaukee been winning, they’ve been getting us bettors paid, going 6-1 ATS. On the other hand, Minnesota has lost and failed to cover their last two outings. Granted both of those contests were on the road, but this team is giving up a lot of points. Not only that but they are one of the worst in the league on the defensive glass. This specific mismatch is going to be fatal for them here today as they face the NBA’s top-offensive rebounding squad. On the flipside, believe it or not Milwaukee tops the NBA in defense, both in points allowed and in field-goal percentage. There’s some talk Giannis might be sitting today. The latest report looks like he will play (check status). Even if the star forward does not play, I feel this team has enough talent on the floor and on the bench to stay undefeated. And for our purposes to get another ATS cover. Milwaukee is 9-3 ATS the last 12 road games, while Minnesota is 3-8 ATS the last 11 home games. Take the Bucks. Thank you.

Oklahoma City Thunder.

Slam Dunk.

Game 570.

4:30 PM PST/7:30 PM EST.

The Thunder are playing some great basketball. Not only have they won and covered three straight, but they are 5-1 ATS this season. On the other hand, the Magic are right on course. Orlando is expected to be one of the poorest teams in the NBA this season and so far, they haven’t disappointed. They are 1-6 straight up and 2-4-1 ATS. Oklahoma City has one eight of the last nine meetings in this rivalry straight up going, 7-1 ATS the last eight matchups. While Orlando is still dealing with a slew of injuries, for the most part OKC is relatively healthy. They are much stronger offensively. They are monsters on the offensive boards as well. And will get a lot of second- chance opportunities. While Orlando has a decent defense, offensively, they are absolutely horrible. They rank at or near the bottom of the barrel in a couple of major offensive categories. This includes scoring, which they rank 28th in the league. Not only is this team winless on the road the season, going 0-5, they have also failed to cover the last seven as a visitor going back to last season. Take the Thunder. Thank you.

Utah Jazz.

CRASH THE BOARDS.

Game 517.

6:10 PM PST/9:10 PM EST.

Sports fans, Utah took down Denver at home in both teams season-openers, 123-102. Even if Collin Sexton, who is listed as questionable for this game, doesn’t play, this is still way too many points to give the Jazz. I understand that the Nuggets are in revenge-mode here and are playing at home, but it is still way too many points. On both sides of the court Utah is looking much stronger than Denver at this point. Throw into the mix that the Jazz are monsters on the offensive boards and will get a ton of second-chance shots, and I like the visiting team to possibly win outright here. But I will take the points for sure as they are 5-1 ATS the last six meetings in this series. Meanwhile The Nuggets are just 4-11 ATS the last 15 at home. Take Utah. Thank you.

Cleveland Cavaliers.

FAST BREAK.

Game 507.

4:40 PM PST/7:40 PM EST.

Despite a 2-1 record, the Boston Celtics are not looking like the team that they were a season ago. Their defense is absolutely atrocious, ranking 19th, and yielding over 115.3 points per game. They’ve got a couple of cogs in the wheel that will be continuing to sit due to injuries. But they are going to be without Grant Williams. He is serving a one-game suspension. I feel they are going to be a little thin upfront against the very talented duo of Jarett Allen and Evan Mobley. And when Boston tries to adjust, this will leave Donovan Mitchell open to score at will. Look for a major mismatch from beyond the arc in this contest as well. Cleveland is hitting over 40% from downtown, while Boston is allowing over 40% from three-point land. Not only that, but the Celtics are one of the worst in the NBA right now on the offensive boards. And they must go up against one of the best defensive rebounding corps in basketball. Take the Cavaliers. Thank you.

San Antonio.

Fast Break.

Game 549.

5:10 PM PST/8:10 PM EST.

Can you believe the Spurs are tied for the top-spot in the Southwest, while the Timberwolves are tied for the third spot in the Northwest? Not only is San Antonio 3-1 straight up, they’ve also covered three of their four outings this season. Minnesota, which is sitting at 2-2 has crushed sportsbettors, going 1-3 against the spread. The Spurs have won and covered three in a row, all on the road. And yet, the Timberwolves come in here nearly a double-digit favorite. These two teams just met on the same floor at the Target Center a few nights ago, when the Spurs devoured the T-Wolves 115-106. Now the odds makers of telling us that revenge is such a big factor that Minnesota is going to turn around and cover this nearly double-digit point spread. That is just ludicrous. San Antonio is money, going 8-0 ATS the last eight games played on one days rush, 6-0 ATS the last six games played following a straight up win, 15-5-1 ATS the last 21 games played on the road, and 13-3 ATS the last 16 games played overall. Take the Spurs. Thank you.

Milwaukee.

Slam Dunk.

Game 546.

4:40 PM PST/7:40 PM EST.

Nothing would give the only undefeated team in the Eastern conference, the Milwaukee Bucks more pleasure then crushing the Brooklyn Nets. Both teams were touted to be contenders this season. However, after a week of play, they are certainly looking like they’re heading in opposite directions. Brooklyn is just 1-2 and have suffered some ugly defeats already. While Milwaukee is a perfect 2-0, covering both of their outings at Philadelphia and at home against Houston. The Bucks own the number one defense in the NBA, yielding just 96.5 points per game. I just don’t see the out-of-sync Nets scoring on them here. To make matters worse, once again this season Milwaukee possesses one of the best offensive rebounding squads in the league. While they rank amongst the best in basketball in field goal percentage and three-point percentage, they will get as many second-chance shots as they need in this matchup. They have won and covered five of the last six overall meetings and five of the last seven in Milwaukee. Take the Bucks. Thank you.

Memphis Grizzlies on the moneyline.

FAST BREAK.

Game 524.

5:10 PM PST/8:10 PM EST.

I would absolutely hate to be the Brooklyn Nets today. My friends, this is a team with a lot of big names, a large payroll, and a lot of ego. But, let’s be honest, they just aren’t meshing. And now they have to face a Memphis Grizzlies opponent which is touted once again to be one of the strongest teams in the Western Conference. The Grizzlies begin the campaign beating both the Knicks and the Rockets, two subpar teams. Saturday night they went into Dallas and got crushed 137-96 by the Mavericks. Getting them off that embarrassing loss, which Ja Morant was held to just 20-points after setting a franchise record for points in the first two games, is going to be fatal for the visitors here. Let’s not forget Memphis has won and covered the last six meetings against Brooklyn, including all three at the FedEx forum. Granted the home team is a little shorthanded without Jaren Jackson or Zaire Williams. However, Dillon Brooks is expected to make his debut tonight. I just don’t see the Nets keeping pace with the Ja Morant and the explosive Memphis offense in this matchup. Not only that but, the Grizzlies are absolutely crushing it on the boards. This is a place where the Nets certainly need improvement. Look for a big mismatch on the glass in this meeting. Brooklyn is 2-6 ATS the last eight games played on two days rest, 9-28 ATS the last 37 games played following an ATS win, and 1-4 ATS the last five games played overall. Memphis is 16-6 ATS the last 22 games played following an ATS loss, 35-16 ATS the last 51 games played on one days rest, and 21-7 ATS the last 28 games played at home. Take the Grizzlies. Thank you.

Cleveland Cavaliers.

Slam Dunk.

Game 508.

4:00 PM PST/7:00 PM EST

This line is a little short as the odds makers are looking to trap you. They know that we all know the Cavaliers played last night in Chicago and had to had to travel back home to Cleveland for this matchup. Yes, Washington is 2-0. That is a fact. But let’s face it, they played the Bulls two evenings ago, and although they did win, they barely got the victory, eking out a 102-100 victory. Last night in Chicago, the Cavaliers demolished the Bulls, 128-96. You know after the Bucks, the Cavs are touted as the second strongest team in the Central Division. This is a very talented squad folks. They don’t commit to many turnovers, they are very accurate from the floor, whether it be around the basket or from downtown, and they also hit a high-percentage from the line. But the most impressive thing about Cleveland is once again they have a monster defense. They will frustrate the Washington squad, create turnovers, and will certainly take advantage in transition here. The Wizards are 6-20-1 ATS the last 27 following a straight up win, 4-9 ATS the last 13 on the road, and 7-19-1 ATS the last 27 played on one days rest. Take the Cavaliers. Thank you.

Take Portland.

Crash the Boards.

Game 501.

12:30 PM PST/3:30 PM EST.

Most of the early money this morning is coming in on the Lakers because the general public feels that after starting the season off going 0-2, that they are due for a victory. Well waiting for LeBron James and Los Angeles to get their first win, is worse than waiting for a check in the mail from Publishers Clearing House. Portland travels to LA with sporting their first 2-0 start since the 2018 campaign. Let’s throw away the fact that the Blazers are 14-6 ATS the last 20 meetings with the Lakers in Los Angeles. Let’s look at the present day. The Blazers are relatively healthy, while once again the Lakers are already listing most of their stars as questionable or probable here today. No one expect too much from LA. And I really don’t think their fans are expecting a victory here today. Despite all their superstar personnel, the Lakers are accounting for just 103.0 points per game. And now must face a much-improved Portland squad that is brimming with confidence, following wins and covers on the road at Sacramento and at home a few nights ago against Phoenix. Damian Lillard will light up the scoreboard here today in this match up. Take Portland. Thank you.

Memphis Grizzlies.

Las Vegas Strip Move Play.

Game 547.

5:10 PM PST/8:10 PM EST.

Memphis begins their campaign off with a big win at Madison Square Garden two days ago, taking New York down 115-112 in overtime. Houston put up a valiant effort in Atlanta in their season opener, falling short 117-107 in Atlanta. Important to tell you that the Grizzlies did fail to cover, while the Rockets eked by with a cover by a half-point. The Memphis one of the strongest teams in the West. And once again, Houston is one of the worst. No one expects too much from them. However, the Grizzlies have high hopes this season. After a lackluster overtime win against the Knicks, the they must put their foot on the gas in this matchup to give the team a little momentum and confidence and their fans something to be excited about. Going back to last season the Rockets have now dropped eight in a row straight up. They are pretty good against the spread. But Memphis has had their way with them, taking five of the last six straight up and four of those six against the spread. Houston is just 0-5 ATS the last five games played vs. teams with the winning percentage above .600. They are also a dismal 25-55 AYTS the last 80 games played at home. Ja Morant and company are just too much for their counterpart to handle here. Take the Grizzlies. Thank you.

Los Angeles Clippers.

Above The Rim Play.

Game 531.

7:00 PM PST/10:00 PM EST.

After the beating the Lakers received at the hands of the Warriors in their season-opener a few days ago, I would normally look to jump on a team like that to bounce back in their second game of the campaign. However, the Lakers are a whole different story. And now that they have to face the Los Angeles Clippers, their crosstown rival in their season opening contest, I think things are going to go from bad to worse for LeBron James and company.  The Clippers are at full strength with no significant injuries to the roster. This is very exciting because it is the first game Kawhi Leonard will be taking the floor in about 15 months. Not only that, but it is the first game he and Paul George are both on the floor for in quite a while. And when you have a guy like John Wall coming off the bench, I think it’s safe to say that your team is loaded. The Clippers have taken seven consecutive meetings straight up with the Lakers, including all three a season ago. They are 10-1 against the spread the last 11 meetings at the Lakers and 35-17 against the spread the last 52 overall meetings with the Lakers. I look for Leonard to come out here and play very well as the team flexes their muscles against their crosstown rival. Take the Clippers. Thank you.

Golden State Warriors.

Slam Dunk Play.

Game 504.

7:00 PM PST/10:00 PM EST.

Funny thing folks, the Golden State Warriors are touted to take the Western Conference. However preseason predictions have the Phoenix Suns actually taking the Pacific Division. That can’t sit well with the Warriors. No matter how you look at it, Los Angeles just does not have the horses to run with Golden State. I know that last season they played each other three times and the Warriors took two of the three meetings straight up. And the Lakers took two of the three against the spread. Yes, they play each other very tough. But this is a new season and Golden State would love to come out here and make a statement not just to their hated rivals, but to the entire Western Conference. This is a team loaded with playmakers. Let’s not forget they also finished last year covering six of their final seven at home and four of their final five overall. There’s no way they come out and start the season off without making a statement. Take the Warriors. Thank you.

Philadelphia 76ers.

Vegas Insider Move.

Game 501.

4:30 PM PST/7:30 PM EST.

The Celtics are touted to take Atlantic Division this season. This is a very talented team. However, they did lose a couple of big names that would definitely make them more competitive in this match up with the Sixers here tonight. I just don’t think with their current personnel that they have anyone that can contest Joel Embiid in the paint. And when they start to double-team him, Philadelphia is loaded with playmakers that can score both inside and out. If you recall, over the las few seasons, the 76ers covered seven of the last eight meetings with the Celtics. And that was with Boston’s bigger, stronger personnel. I just don’t see them stopping the big man in the middle. Take Philadelphia. Thank you.

Golden State Warriors.

Game 527.

6:00 pm pst.

Taking Game 4 and 5, the Golden State Warriors seem to come up with a recipe for success in this series. They certainly don’t want to force a Game 7. I know that a lot of people out there are looking at the Boston Celtics to get a big win here to force that final game. However, something compelling struck me looking at the statistics from the last few games. Despite the fact that Golden State shot extremely poorly from beyond the arc and was significantly out rebounded in both matchups, and they still won both. This tells me that is their playoff experience will come through here again tonight. There’s no way that Steph Curry, who by the way broke his streak of 132 consecutive playoff games with a 3-pointer made will not come out and light it up from downtown. Yes, Boston has the muscle. And they certainly have several outstanding players. But their lack of playoff experience will certainly hurt them here not to mention that momentum is against them. The Warriors are 7-3 against the spread the last 10 games as an underdog and 8-3 against the spread the last 11 games overall. Take Golden State. Thank you.

Boston Celtics.

High Roller play.

Game 525.

6:00 PM PST.

The winner of each game of this series has won and covered all four contests. Now going into Game 5, these two teams are clearly evenly matched. I strongly feel this matchup will be the closest and toughest fought of the series. Not wanting to fall three games to two, Boston will come out here and utilize their strengths. They are 8-1 against the spread the last nine games played on two days rest, 13-3 against the spread the last 16 games played following a straight up loss, and 18-7-2 against the spread the last 27 games played as an underdog. The Celtics will come in here and out play the Warriors physically, both on defense and in the paint. Take Boston. Thank you.

Golden State Warriors.

Game 523.

6:00 PM PST.

Whether you are a fan of the Western Conference or the Eastern conference, you must admit that this is a very evenly matched series. Two explosive offenses and two frustrating defenses. However, looking at this Game 4 matchup, I just don’t see Golden State giving this series up without a fight. They know very well that if they drop tonight’s game, it is going to be near impossible to then win three straight. I look for their third ranked defense to frustrate Boston’s top scorers, Tatum and Brown. I also look for Steph Curry to do what he does and take this game on his shoulders and soar. The Warriors are 4-0 against the spread the last four games following a straight up loss, 4-1 against the spread the last five games on one days rest, 7-3 against the spread the last 10 games as an underdog, and 6-2 against the spread the last eight games overall. Take Golden State. Thank you.

Golden State Warriors.

Las Vegas Strip Move Game of the Year.

Game 521.

6:00 pm pst/ 9:00 pm est.

+3.5 Consensus.

Wednesday June 8, 2022.

 Following an embarrassing Game 1 loss at home, Golden State took Game 2 of the Finals with authority. Not only did they light up a very good Boston defense for 107 points, but their defense held the Celtics to their lowest output this postseason, just 88 points. I understand that many out there subscribe to the zigzag theory come the NBA postseason. First of all, I don’t subscribe wholeheartedly to any theories or angles when it comes to sports betting. Once I look at a game from every angle, if there is a specific theory that confirms my initial feel, then I will put some stock into it. But by no means do I put stock in any one theory as an absolute. Having said that, the Warriors evened the series and now take it on the road to the TD Garden. Granted, Boston has not lost back-to-back games this entire postseason. But they haven’t faced Golden State either. While they certainly belong here, many out there are underestimating the well-balanced, well-coached Warriors squad. This is a team that possesses one of the most frustrating defenses in all of basketball. Not only that, but offensively they can score both inside and out. And unlike several of the Celtics other opponents during this playoffs season, they don’t just have a big man to shut down. The Warriors have a slew of talent. Of course, Steph Curry is the key cog in the wheel. However, Draymond Green stepped up big time in Game 2. And you can bet you’re going to see a lot more of what he did there here in Game 3. To go back to the Warriors defense, they held Brown to just 17 points on Sunday. Tatum did get his points, but the pair were surely out of sync. Other than that, Boston’s leading scorer was White with just 12 points. Every other Celtic had six-points or less. Golden State forced a lot of turnovers and that’s what they do folks. They slowed down and disrupted Boston’s flow in transition. And that’s where the Celtics have had much of their success. You can look for more of the same here. Now that the series is even, trust me when I tell you the Warriors want this win so bad to take a lead in the Finals, they can taste it. I get the number here. But making them an underdog is a gift by the oddsmakers. They are 7-3 against the spread the last 10 games played in the underdog role and 6-2 against spread the last eight games played overall. Take Golden State. Thank you.

Golden State Warriors.

NBA Finals Game of the Year.

Game 520.

5:00 pm pst. 

My friends, make no mistake of it, Boston dominated Game 1. They came in with a game plan, executed it, and took a very crucial road victory. Well, Golden State desperately needs to win Game 2. Not only to even up to series, but to establish their presence in this matchup. This isn’t the “due-for” factor or the “zig zag” theory. This is logic. The Warriors have not lost back-to-back games this postseason. As a matter fact they have not dropped two games in a row in over two months. In the series opener, Golden State only shot 44% overall from the floor, 42% from beyond the arc, and only went to the free-throw line 15 times, making 11 out of 15 free throws. They also allowed Boston to put up 120 points. That has only happened twice this entire postseason. And they faced some very good offenses. You can expect both teams to be basically at full force in this match up. Anyone that can suit up and play, will suit up and play. Having said that, look for the Warriors to make their shots on offense, play a little more physically, go to the line and make their free throws, and do what they do defensively. And that is to frustrate opponents’ offenses. There is no way Steve Kerr, Steph Curry and company will drop a second game at home and go down two games to zero in the series. They are also 5-1 against the spread the last six games played following a straight up loss, 4-1 against the spread the last five games played at the Chase Center, and 5-2 against the spread the last seven games played overall. Take the Warriors. Thank you.

Golden State Warriors.

NBA Finals Game 1 Winner.

Game 518.

6:00 pm pst.

There is no question both of these teams belong here. But there are certainly more than a few advantages on the side of the Warriors. First of all, they’re playing at home where they sport a 39-10 SU record this season. They have also covered four straight at the Chase Center. Next, they had a few extra days to rest, heal, and prepare for the Championship series. And lastly, which I feel is the most important, this is a whole different monster of an opponent than the Celtics have faced in the playoffs. In the first several rounds, Boston had to deal with very good opponents. But each of the opponents have one main player they had to contain. That is not the case here. Golden State is chock-full of talent. And they can beat you both inside and out. Not only that, but an enormous amount of the Celtics success comes in transition. They are excellent in transition. However, they will not have that same opportunity here in this match up with the Warriors. Golden State owns one of the nastiest, most frustrating, and well-disciplined defenses in the NBA. They can swarm you man-to-man, they can play zone, they are excellent on the boards, they can steal the ball, they can create turnovers, and they can force a lot of mistakes. There is one more major factor here in the first game of the NBA finals that significantly benefits the Warriors. Their players have a lot more postseason experience. They don’t rattle very easily in big game situations. Obviously, the Celtics have played well. They got to the Finals. But they certainly have some cracks and the Warriors can and will exploit those cracks. Boston is 2-5-1 against the spread the last eight games following a straight up win. Golden State is 5-1 against the spread the last six games overall. Take the Warriors. Thank you.

Golden State Warriors.

Slam Dunk Game of the Year.

Game 563.

6 pm pst.

 Taking Game 1 and 2 of this series at home, the odds makers are looking to beat you here. But we aren’t going to fall for the trap as the Warriors have won and covered three straight in the postseason. Their frustrating defense along with their very deep, talented, and experienced bench and crafty team, is just too strong in the series for Dallas to handle. Giving them points here is a huge mistake. Take the Warriors. Thank you.

Golden State Warriors.

Game 648.

6:00 pm pst.

The Dallas Mavericks are a very good team. However, they lose a little something when they travel. And let’s be honest, the Golden State Warriors defense is absolutely outstanding. Andrew Wiggins handcuffed Luka Doncic in Game 1 as good or better than we’ve seen anybody defend the forward this season, holding him just 20 points and seven rebounds in the series opener. The Mavericks have trouble when they travel. Not just straight up, but against the spread as well as they are 1-4 ATS their last five games played on the road. On the other hand, the Warriors have really turned it up the ladder half of the season and in the playoffs. They have won all seven postseason games played at home in 2022, going 5-2 against the spread. Overall, this team is 8-2 ATS the last 10 games played at the Chase Center. Dallas will make some adjustments at the start of this game but so will Golden State. The Warriors are just going to be kryptonite for the Mavericks in this series. Particularly here at home where they know they need to take another victory before Game 3 on the road. Take Golden State. Thank you.

Boston Celtics.

Game 543.

5:30 pm pst.

Both teams were missing some key players in the Game 1 match up. However quite a few things went wrong for Boston. This is a team that owns the NBA’s number one scoring defense, and yet they allowed the most points this postseason in Tuesday’s match up. While Al Horford is listed as doubtful here, Marcus Smart, they’re defensive key, is listed as probable. That will be big for Boston here. The Celtics cannot afford to go down two games in this series. Look for NBA Defensive Player of the Year, Smart (check status) to return here and make an impact right away, thus allowing the Celtics to succeed in transition and allow superstars Tatum and Brown to shine. Boston is 4-0 against the spread the last four games played following a straight up loss, 7-1-1 against the spread the last nine games played as underdog, and 19-7-1 against the spread the last 27 games played on the road. Take the Celtics. Thank you.

Dallas Mavericks.

Western Conference Finals Game of the Year.

Game 539.

6 PM PST/9 PM EST.

I’m not looking to take away anything from the Golden State Warriors series win over the Memphis Grizzlies. But their opponent was without superstar Ja Morant for a few contests. The Dallas Mavericks got better as the series with the Phoenix Suns progressed. Their offense was on-fire while their defense really stepped up to hold the Suns powerful “O” intact the last several games. The Warriors are an excellent team and certainly deserve to be here. However, the Mavericks own a frustrating defense overall and particularly from beyond the arc where Golden State excels. Looking at the health of both teams, Dallas is quite a bit healthier as they’re only listed injured player is Hardaway Jr. On the other hand, the Warriors have several guys, significant cogs in the wheel, that will be missing here or at the very least, banged-up. This was evident recently where they struggled to cover the spread. They are just 3-5 their last eight games against the spread these playoffs. They haven’t exactly been blowing away opponents. On the other hand, The Mavericks covered four of their last five coming into the Western Conference Finals. And this season have had their way in this Conference rivalry winning and covering three or four meetings with Golden State. Going back a bit, they are 6-1 against the spread the last seven meetings in Golden State and 7-3 the last 10 overall meetings with Golden State. The Warriors are 0-5 against the spread the last five games played following a straight up wind. This is way too many points to give the very scrappy, Dallas team. Take the Mavericks. Thank you.

Boston Celtics.

Game 535.

5:30 PM PST/8:30 PM EST.

Well, it is without question that both of these teams deserve to be here. However, looking at the postseason you can’t argue the fact that the Celtics have beaten better opposition. Very quietly, Boston owns the number one ranked defense in all of the NBA. The Celtics are chock full of two-way players. While both teams have a few question marks and maybe a player out, I do believe the Heat is going to severely miss Kyle Lowry in tonight‘s matchup. Boston took two of three meetings this season with Miami, both straight up and against the spread and are an overall 13-6 against the spread the last 19 meetings in Miami. They also happen to be one of the best teams in the NBA when traveling, going 19-6-1 against the spread the last 26 games played on the road. Take the Celtics. Thank you.

Boston Celtics.

Game 515.

4:30 pm pst.

A team with their back to the wall is a very dangerous team. Facing elimination tonight, the Boston Celtics and their league-leading defense will keep their postseason hopes alive with a big outright win here. If Boston goes with a bigger lineup, they can match Milwaukee down low. If they go to smaller lineup, they will do what they’ve done to every other opponent this season, and that is to frustrate them. They have a smart head coach who will rotate his players when needed. Please remember that the Celtics are 5-0-1 against the the spread the last six meetings at the Bucks and an overall 9-2-1 against the spread the last 12 overall meetings versus the Bucks. Moreover, this is a team that is excellent on the road going 18-7-1 against the spread last 26 games played away from home, 8-2 against the spread the last 10 games played following a straight up loss, and 15-5-2 against the spread the last 22 games played as an underdog. Take a Celtics plus the points. Thank you.

Golden State Warriors.

Game 509.

6:30 PM PST.

Just about everyone in the world thought Golden State would have it an easy time of it in the Game 4 meeting with Memphis minus Ja Morant. Despite the Grizzlies going 20-5 straight up minus their star guard during the regular season, in all sincerity most of those games were against sub .500 teams. And yet we’re back to the fact that the Warriors should’ve had a picnic on Monday. Believe it or not even experience veterans like Steph Curry and company could enter a match up overconfident. That’s exactly what happened in the 101-98 win and no cover in the last contest. With that in mind and the opportunity to close the series out, you can be sure Golden State will do just that. They won’t take Memphis lightly tonight and they will close out to series. Take the Warriors. Thank you.

Heat.

Game 502.

4:30 PM PST.

The home team has won and covered all four games in this series. As a matter of fact, going back a bit, Philadelphia is just 1-6-1 ATS the last eight games played in Miami. They are pointspread poison away from home going a dismal, 2-8 ATS the last 10 when they travel. The Heat are money at the FTX Arena covering seven of their last eight at home. Take Miami. Thank you.

Boston Celtics.

Game 581.

4:30 PM PST.

Boston shot just 37% from the floor and a dismal 27% from beyond the arc in Game 3. Giannis Antetokounmpo contributed 42 points and 12 rebounds lighting up the scoreboard. All this and yet the Celtics still only lost by two points. With Middleton out and Hill a bit rusty, look for the Celtics to bounce back here and even up the series. Boston is 8-1-1 against the spread the last 10 meetings with Milwaukee and 4-0-1 against the spread the last five meetings in the Fiserv Forum. They are also 7-2 against the spread the last nine games played following a straight up loss, 5-0-1 against the spread the last six games played as a road underdog, 6-2 against the spread the last eight games played on one days rest, and 16-5-1 against the spread the last 22 overall road games. Take the Celtics. Thank you.

Miami Heat.

Best Bet play.

Game 579.

5:00 PM PST.

Joel Embiid made his debut in the series in Game 3 to give the 76ers their first win. Game 3 was a dominating victory for Philadelphia, 99–79. Miami will make adjustments here in Game 4 and rotate their deep bench to tire out the Philadelphia center. You can rest assure that Miami will bounce back from their poor shooting performance in the last game. Kyle Lowry was getting his legs back in Friday’s game and will have a much better performance here tonight. Look for the Heat defense to frustrate the Philadelphia offense and also dominate on the boards. They are 11- 4-1 against the spread the last 16 games played on the road, 17-7 against the spread the last 24 games played as an underdog, and 11-4 against the spread the last 15 games played overall. Take Miami. Thank you.

Memphis Grizzlies.

Slam Dunk Play.

Game 573.

5:30 PM PST/8:30 PM EST.

For a team that was a last-second missed shot away from being up two games to none in this series to be a seven-point underdog here only because they took it on the road, astounds me. Guard, Gary Peyton II is out here today. Well, he was Golden States best defender against Ja Morant. Morant was 3-for-8 shooting against Peyton and 23-for-50 against the rest of the Warriors. Memphis possesses the number two overall scoring team in the NBA. They can score on any opponent. While Golden State has an enormous amount of talent, defensively they are having a tough time trying to contain Morant. Head coach, Taylor Jenkins came up with an excellent defensive gameplan to cut the Warriors knees off from downtown in Game 2. Look for a little more of that and for Ja Morant too light up the scoreboard once again. This game will be a lot closer than the point spread. Memphis is 4-0 against the spread the last four meetings with Golden State, 16-6-1 against the spread the last 23 games played as an underdog, and 8-3-1 against the spread the last 12 games played following a straight up win. Take the Grizzlies. Thank you.

Miami Heat.

Las Vegas Strip Move.

Game 549.

4:00 PM PST.

Miami has taken Games 1 and 2 of this series with authority. It’s not just the absence of Joel Embiid that has led to Philadelphia’s hole. This is a team that has lost four the last five playoff games both straight up and against the spread. Right now, they have no answer for the Miami Heat defense. Without Embiid in the paint, the 76ers are forced to shoot from beyond the arc. During the regular season they shot 36.4% from three-point range. However, they shot just 18% in Game 1 and 27% in Game 2. I understand that Philly is going home now for Game 3 and they are a good home team. But Miami is a darn good road team as well. They are 11-3-1 against the spread the last 15 road games, 6-2 against the spread the last eight games played on one days rest, 9-3 against the spread the last 12 games played as a favorite, and 11-3 against the spread the last 14 games played overall. Take the Heat. Thank you.

Dallas Mavericks.

Slam Dunk play.

Game 543.

7:00 PM PST.

The combination of the Mavericks starting slowly and the fact that the NBA’s second-ranked defense was definitely not playing par for their course resulted in a Game 1 loss. I know the Suns have had their way in this rivalry. But with everything going wrong for Dallas in the series opener, they still rallied from a 21-point deficit late on the game. I feel they’ll take a lot from the first match up and their momentum from the second half will carry over into this game here tonight. Something else to keep in mind is the fact that the supporting cast for the Mavericks really didn’t do too much in Monday’s contest. I expect the supporting cast (starters as well as the bench) to step up here in Game 2. I’m siding with Dallas to fight back here. Take the Mavericks plus the points. Thank you.

Dallas Mavericks.

Game 523.

7:00 PM PST/ PM EST.

I know Phoenix has won all three meetings with Dallas this regular season. But the Mavericks have covered two of the three and let’s be honest, they haven’t met in over three months. Dallas enters today’s Game 1 matchup covering five straight games and 13 of the last 17. Both teams top players have missed some time this postseason but both are back and look to be playing at 100%. Both teams can score points. There’s no questioning that. However, Dallas is much better defensively and can counter the Phoenix offensive strengths of their three-point shooting and their rebounding with one of the best defensive perimeter squads and rebounding squads in the NBA. I believe the combination of the addition of Dinwiddie now wearing a Mavericks uniform and the fact that Dallas has a deeper and stronger bench will be the difference in this matchup. The Mavericks are 5-0 against the spread the last five games played on the road, 4-1 against the spread the last five games played as an underdog, and 25-10-1 against spread the last 36 games played overall. Take Dallas. Thank you.

Dallas Mavericks.

Slam Dunk play.

Game 565.

7:00 PM PST/10:00 PM EST.

Very simply, Dallas is just playing better basketball than Utah. They started the series very competitively without their superstar, Luka Doncic. Yes, in his first game back they dropped the game, but they still played very competitively as the forward was getting his sea legs. Well, Game 5 had a much different outcome. The Mavericks blew away the Jazz 102-77 to give them four consecutive covers in this series. Without question Utah has a lot more pressure on them here. They play in front of their home crowd who is used to them not succeeding in the postseason. That will weigh on their shoulders during this matchup. And less pressure, momentum, and having Doncic on the floor and healthy, there is no question in my mind that the Mavericks win this game. Throw into the mix that Donovan Mitchell is a little banged-up and that spells DOOM for Utah. The Mavericks are 4-0 against the spread the last four meetings at the Jazz, 4-0 against the spread the last four games played on the road, and 20-8 against the spread the last 28 games played versus teams with a winning record. Take Dallas. Thank you.

New Orleans Pelicans.

Las Vegas Strip Move play.

Game 564.

4:30 PM PST/7:30 PM EST.

The Pelicans are no strangers to facing illumination. As a matter of fact, they play some of their best basketball when their back is to the wall. They won elimination games against the Spurs and the Clippers in the play-in tournament and once again are facing elimination here today. They lost Game 5 partly the fact that their star, CJ McCollum had a very poor shooting night. The guard will make sure that won’t happen again. Something else that caught my eye in the last game was the fact that Chris Paul really looked exhausted late in the second half. He’s not a kid anymore and I expect him to experience some tire legs once again here in Game 6. Overall, Phoenix is not the strongest team when playing on one days rest as they are 2-7 against the spread the last nine in the situation, 1-5 against the spread the last six games played as a road favorite, and 1-5 against the spread the last six games played following a straight up win. Take New Orleans. Thank you.

Miami Heat.

Game 540.

4 PM PST/7 PM EST.

Just to recap a little bit of the series, Games 1 and 2 played at the FTX Arena were won by Miami by a combined 34-points. Atlanta took Game 3 at home in Philips Arena. That loss truly upset the Heat. As a matter of fact, it downright pissed them off. They came back out in Game 4 and dominated from start to finish winning 110-86. They now return back home and can and will finish this series off in front of their faithful fans. These two teams met eight times this season as the Heat won and covered six of the eight meetings. It just so happens to be that they won and covered all four at home. It’s no secret that when Atlanta hits the road, they lose a little something. They are just 8-20 against the spread the last 28 games played away from home. Their biggest star, point guard Trae Young, who averaged 28.4 points per game during the regular season, is only averaging 16.5 points per game in the postseason. The frustrating Miami defense has gotten to him as well as the rest of the squad. They are swarming Atlanta and also dominating on the defensive boards taking away any of the Hawks second chance shots. The Heat are 5-0 against the spread the last five games played at home, 5-1 against the spread the last six games played on one days rest, and 9-2 against the spread the last 11 games played overall. Take Miami. Thank you.

Dallas Mavericks.

SD play.

Game 536.

6:30 pm pst.

With The series tied 2-2, Dallas doesn’t just want this victory here tonight, they need it. It seems as though the Mavericks, which have covered Games 2, 3, and 4, have the recipe for frustrating Utah. As everyone knows, star forward, Luka Doncic returned in Game 4. Don’t overthink the fact that when he finally got back on the floor that the team lost. He really didn’t get into a rhythm until just before the half. That would concern me more than anything if I were the Jazz. Dallas has covered four of the last five matchups in this rivalry at home and eight of the last nine overall. This is an issue for Utah, as they are not a strong road team. They are also not very good in the role of an underdog or when playing on just one days rest. They sport a 6-19-1 against the spread mark the last 26 games played on the road, an 0-4 against the spread mark the last four games played as an underdog, an 1-9 against the spread mark the last 10 games played on one days rest. Take the Mavericks. Thank you.

Boston Celtics.

LVSM play.

Game 531.

4:00 pm pst.

Up 3-0 in this series, the Boston defense is just too much for Brooklyn to handle. The Celtics know that if they close the series out today, they will have a few extra days to rest and prepare for the next round of the playoffs. Once again, there is news surrounding the fact that Ben Simmons should make his debut here. Either way he won’t be as much is a factor as people think as he hasn’t been on the court in a very long time. There is no questioning the fact that Kevin Durant is one of the best to ever play in the NBA. However, he’s not a kid anymore and it is evident that the Boston defense has wreaked havoc on his game. Since the beginning of February, these two teams have met six times with Boston winning all six and covering five of the six. The Celtics are also 13-3 against the spread the last 16 games on the road, 4-0 against the spread the last four games as an underdog, and 8-1 against spread the last nine games following a straight up win. Take Boston. Thank you.

Golden State Warriors.

Las Vegas Strip Move Game of the Month.

Game 523.

12:30 PM PST/3:30 PM EST.

Up 3-0, Golden State can get some extra rest by putting Denver here away as their next matchup will be between the Memphis/Minnesota winner. That series is tied 2-2. The Warriors haven’t just won every game in this series, they’ve won each one with ease. And for us sportsbettors, they have covered all three as well, winning by an average margin of 13.6 points per game. The Nuggets aren’t just losing this series, they have a dropped the last four overall straight up. And they have also dropped seven of the last nine against the spread. Denver is just simply way in over their heads here as they have failed to cover the last five meetings with Golden State, 18 of the last 24 games played at home, and the last five played as a home underdog. Take the Warriors. Thank you.

Boston Celtics.

Las Vegas Strip Move play.

Game 515.

4:30 PM PST/7:30 PM EST.

The Boston Celtics defense, which ranks No. 1 in the league, has truly frustrated the Brooklyn Nets. Brooklyn has a star-studded roster. And they all seem to be having issues facing this swarming “D “. Rumors are that Ben Simmons will make his long-awaited debut this evening. Well, if he plays, I feel it will take away from any rhythm this team had. And if he doesn’t, well we go back to my first point that they’re having problem with the Celtic defense. Brown and Tatum have turned it up this series when needed. And Horford has been an absolute monster in the paint. Nothing is going change your being that the venue is now different. Boston is 4-1 against the spread the last five meetings with Brooklyn, 4-0 against spread the last four games played on the road, and 6-0 against the spread the last six games played on two days rest. Take the Celtics. Thank you.

Dallas Mavericks.

SLAM DUNK PLAY.

Game 513.

1:30 PM PST/4:30 PM EST.

Many out there were concerned that the Utah Jazz would fold like a cheap suit like they traditionally do come the postseason. Well dropping Games 2 and 3 of this series, it seems like history is repeating itself. Once again, the big news is the status of Luka Doncic. Latest rumors is that he is probable to play this evening. That’s as of posting this analysis. The star forward hasn’t played since April 10 and the team has done just well in the series without him. Dallas possesses the leagues No. 2 ranked scoring defense. And it has been this defense that has certainly frustrated Utah. Now being booed at home in Salt Lake City, is putting added pressure on the Jazz. The Mavericks have won 11 of the last 14 straight up covering 10 of those outings. They are also excellent in the role of an underdog covering 10 of those last 14. Moreover, they have no problem playing with very little rest covering five of the last seven and one days rest. Utah is 1-3-1 against the spread the last five games played as a home favorite, 6-19-3 against the spread the last 28 played following an ATS loss, and 1-8 against the spread the last nine games played on one days rest. Take the Mavericks. Thank you.

Golden State.

NBA 1st RD GAME OF THE YEAR.

Game 573.

7:00 pm pst.10:00 pm est.

It’s no coincidence that when Golden State started getting healthy, they started winning games. Not only have they won seven in a row straight up, they are also 7-1 against the spread the last eight. Of course, this includes Games 1 and 2 of this series thumping Denver by 16 and 20-points. The starting five of Curry, Poole, Thompson, Wiggins, and Green are enough to give any opponent nightmares. Throw into the mix the fact that their bench has been stepping up as well, and this is one outstanding basketball team. Denver doesn’t have neither the starters nor do they have the depth to compete in this matchup. Please understand this, with superstars like Curry and Middleton now healthy, the Warriors can post 120-points on any team in the NBA. However, you may not realize that for most of the season several of their big-name players were sideline with injuries and yet they still ranked third in the league on “D” and top-five in every major defensive category. Now they are at full strength and if you can believe it are getting better with each game. The Warriors are 4-0 against the spread the last four meetings with the Nuggets and 31-12 against the spread the last 43 Conference Quarterfinals games. The Nuggets are 1-5 against the spread the last six games played at home and 0-4 against the spread the last four games played as a home underdog. Take Golden State. Thank you.

Dallas Mavericks.

Game 571.

6:00 pm pst/9:00 pm est.

There are some reports stating that Luka Doncic may make his return here in Game 3. Whether the star forward is on the floor or not, this is just way too many points for Utah to lay. Yes, a lot of the Dallas success this season has come because of their superstar forward. However, they’ve played pretty competitively in Games 1 and 2 of this series without him. I understand that those games are played at home and now the Mavericks and must take it on the road. But guys, they have been money to anyone who wagers on them in this rivalry covering six of the last seven meetings with the Jazz. And when playing as an underdog, they are 9-4 against the spread the last 13 in that role. They can stay with Utah offensively there’s no question about that. But it has been their stellar defensive play throughout the entire season that has made this team outstanding. Just look at what they’ve done to Utah holding them way below their season average. Utah is 3-7-1 against the spread the last 11 games played as a favorite and 3-9-1 against the spread the last 13 games played overall. Take Dallas. Thank you.

Brooklyn Nets.

Game 561.

4:00 PM PST.

Not only did the Nets lose Game 1 to the Celtics on a buzzer beating layup, but star guard, Kyrie Irving got fined $50,000 for giving the TD Garden fans a specific hand gesture. I look for Brooklyn to come in here extra motivated bouncing back and taking Game 2. The Nets, which are 4-1 against the spread the last five games played as an underdog and 10-3-1 against the spread the last 14 road games, are pissed off and I looking for some redemption here. While they did cover the opening game, they need a win here to even up this series and go back home tied. They are also 14-6 against the spread the last 20 meetings with the Celtics. Take Brooklyn plus the points. Thank you.

Phoenix Suns.

Slam Dunk play.

Game 554.

7:00 PM PST.

I know many sports bettors out there, prior to Game 1 of this series looked at how hot New Orleans was playing along with fact that Phoenix was a little shaky towards the end of the regular season and played the Pelicans. Well, they didn’t take into the consideration that the Suns were locked into their number one seed for a while. They had a chance to rest their starters and coast into the postseason. When a team wins battle of the boards 55-35 and you still lose by 11-points, it tells you something. Both offensively and defensively Phoenix outclasses New Orleans. Look for the Suns to put the Pelicans away very quickly here and go up 2-0 in this series. New Orleans is 1-5 against the spread the last six meetings with Phoenix, 1-6 against the spread the last seven the last seven games played versus teams with a winning record, and 0-4 against the spread the last four games played as an underdog. Take the Suns. Thank you.

Golden State Warriors.

Slam Dunk play.

Game 546.

7:00 pm pst.

Guys, many of the statistics you are seeing for the Golden State Warriors this season are skewed. For much of the season they were without some of their top stars and yet they are still one of the best rebounding teams on both ends of the court, rank third in the NBA in points allowed, and are top-five in every single major category on defense. Now they are at full force and are looking as good as they ever were. This is a team that rattled off six consecutive straight up wins, covering six of the last seven overall games. They are just too much for the Denver Nuggets to handle. They have covered the last three meetings in this rivalry winning the last two by a combined 27 points. Denver is 3-10 against the spread the last 13 meetings with Golden State. Golden State is 4-0 against this spread the last four games played at home. Take the Warriors. Thank you.

Toronto Raptors.

LVSM play.

Game 541.

4:30 pm pst.

My friends, no one expected (including myself) Toronto to lose Game 1 of the series by 20-points. However, a lot of things went right for Philadelphia. Tyrese Maxey put up 38 points. Thaddeus Young left the game at halftime. And the 76ers committed just three turnovers while hitting 50% from beyond the arc. Well, the Raptors had a few days to deal with any missing players here and prepare for that. And I doubt the Sixers can replicate their season opening numbers. Having said that, Toronto can and will keep pace offensively and defensively here but I do feel they will have an edge on the offensive boards here. The Raptors are 7-3 against the spread the last 10 games played on the road, 4-1 against the spread the last five games played following a straight up loss, and 4-1 against the spread last five games played as an underdog. Take Toronto. Thank you.

Milwaukee Bucks.

Oddsmakers Mistake play.

Game 530.

3:30 PM PST.

The Chicago Bulls haven’t won a post season game since 2017. And to be quite honest guys, they’re not going to win one here today either. They have limped into the playoffs dropping 15 of the last 22 straight up and 16 of those against the spread. On the other hand, the Milwaukee Bucks are running red hot, winning 15 of the last 21 straight up and 13 of those against the spread. If you’re worried about this number, don’t be as the Bucks have covered 10 of the last 13 laying double-digits. These two Eastern Conference rivals have played four times the season with Milwaukee winning all four SU, covering the last three ATS. They have taken the four meetings by an average score of 14.75 points per game. With Lonzo Ball sidelined the Bulls just don’t have the depth to compensate here. This is a team that is 7-21 against the spread the last 28 games played as an underdog 3-10 against the spread the last 13 games played on the road, and 1-4 against the spread the last five games played overall. Take Milwaukee. Thank you.

Raptors.

LVSM.

Game 521.

3:00 pm pst.

Sports fans, Toronto has been locked into this seeding for quite a while now. So, the Raptors enter the postseason very well rested. Not only that but they start the playoffs red-hot, winning 14 of the last 18 game straight up and covering 12 of those 18 outings. To add to their advantages, this team is one of the few participating in the postseason that are at full strength, with no injuries. They can certainly match Philadelphia in scoring and are significantly better on the boards. And in my opinion, that is where this game will be won. The 76ers have several players that are still out and a few more that are a little banged up. Therefore, rotating fresh legs is not in the cards for them. And for us who wager on games, they have failed to cover seven of the last nine overall entering this matchup. Speaking of matchups, Toronto has taken three or four straight up in the series this season while covering all for meetings with Philadelphia. They are also 7-2 against the spread the last nine games played on the road, 4-1 against the spread the last five games played as an underdog, and 5-1 against the spread the last six Conference Quarterfinal games. Take the Raptors. Thank you.

Pelicans.

SD.

Game 511.

7:05 pm pst.

Sports fans, we all know that New Orleans had a big win and cover against San Antonio the other day while Los Angeles imploded, dropping a big lead in Minnesota and even getting a lot of us the no cover. I know prior to that defeat, the Clippers were running pretty hot. And while they are a much better team with Paul George on the floor, I do believe that there’s a catch 22 with him. Since he’s been back, he has put up some outstanding numbers but the rest of the team aren’t contributing as much. Knowing this, the Pelicans with their nasty defense and third ranked rebounding unit will key on him for sure here. On the other side of the court while New Orleans has the ball, look for them to get a ton of second chance shots as they rank 11th in the league on the offensive boards and Los Angeles ranks 28th on the defensive boards. The Pelicans have covered six of the last seven meetings in this series, winning five of those straight up. They are also 13-5 ATS the last 18 games played on the road. The Clippers are just 7-19 ATS the last 26 games played on too days rest. Take New Orleans. Thank you.

San Antonio.

LAS VEGAS STRIP MOVE play.

Game 507.

6:30 pm pst.

Sports fans the odds makers have the line way off in this matchup. San Antonio has taken three of the four meetings with New Orleans this season, both straight up and against the spread. Going back a ways, they have covered seven of the last eight matchups in this series. Yes, I know the Spurs have dropped three in a row straight up, but they have been on-fire to anyone who wagers on them, covering seven straight and 10 of the last 11. Not only that, but during that ATS hot-streak, they’ve beaten some pretty darn good teams, including a 107-103 win and cover in New Orleans less than three weeks ago. I know in the latter leg of this season the Pelicans have turned it up a little bit. We all know they have been without their superstar, Zion Williamson the entire campaign. And they just picked up CJ McCollum, who has bolstered the squad. However, I think this is the matchup they will severely miss Williamson on the floor. I wouldn’t read into this game any further than the fact that the Spurs played well against teams that aren’t very threatening as most of their troubles came against teams that were above. 500. The Pelicans are certainly not a team that can threaten them. San Antonio is 7-0 against the spread the last seven meetings at the Smoothie King Center, 6-1 against the spread the last seven games played on the road, and 11-4 against the spread the last 15 games played on two days rest. Take Antonio. Thank you.

Los Angeles.

PI GOM.

Game 503.

6:30 pm pst.

Los Angeles comes into this match up winning five in a row and six of the last seven straight up. They have covered five of those seven outings. Funny thing how they started to win when their team started to get healthy. They now have both Paul George and Norman Powell suited up and ready to go. Funny thing, Minnesota only won one of the four meetings this season. That being the most recent when neither George nor Powell we’re on the floor. The three other meetings, the Clippers won and covered all three by an average score of 18.6 points per game. By the way George led all scorers in all three. Los Angeles is 4-1 against the spread the last five meetings in this series overall and 15-6-1 against the spread the last 22 meetings in Minnesota. Minnesota is 1-4 against the spread the last five games played at home and 0-4 I get to spread the last four games played overall. Take the Clippers. Thank you.

Milwaukee Bucks.

LVSM Play.

Game 515.

4:10 pm pst.

A victory here tonight will further strengthen the Milwaukee Bucks hold on the second seed in the East come the playoffs. Not only that, but they can exact a little revenge on the Detroit Pistons as well. After winning nine consecutive meetings with the Pistons, back on January 3 the Bucks got embarrassed at home 115-106. I know Detroit, prior to Wednesday’s 18-point loss at home to Dallas, covered five consecutive games, but this is a whole different monster. And that monsters name is Giannis Antetokounmpo. The superstar will lead the number three ranked offense in the league and decimate the Pistons both inside and out. Many out there don’t realize it, but not only does this team score points, they also rank fourth from beyond the arc and second on the offensive boards. All places that the Pistons defense rank among the poorest in the league. This game gets ugly and the Bucks get their revenge. They are 6-1-1 against the spread the last eight meetings in Detroit, 13- 3-1 against the spread the last 17 overall meetings, 10-4 against the spread the last 14 played on the road, and 6-1 against the spread the last seven games played following an against the spread loss. Take Milwaukee. Thank you.

Boston Celtics.

LVSM Play.

Game 503.

4:30 pm pst.

There is a lot on the line in this contest tonight. The second seed in the conference remains up for grabs and the loser here could mathematically slide all the way down to the number four-spot. Boston and their number one ranked defense will once again frustrate Milwaukee. This is a team that has covered six straight meetings in this rivalry going back to December 2020. That includes all three matchups this season as they have won two straight up, while the most-recent, played on Christmas Day was separated by just four-points. No debating that Giannis Antetokounmpo is a monster player that will always get his numbers. However, Jayson Tatum can match him in statistics very easily. The combination of the Celtics defense and the fact that their offense is exploding for over 123 points per game just over the last 10 outings, prompts me to take the points here with the underdog. Boston is 4-1 against the spread the last five games played in Milwaukee, 6-1 against the spread the last seven games played on the road, and 8-3 against the spread the last 11 games played overall. Take the Celtics. Thank you.

Boston Celtics.

LVSM play.

Game 585.

5:10 pm pst 8:10 pm est.

With three games remaining in the regular season the Boston Celtics are in a tie with the Milwaukee Bucks and the Philadelphia 76ers. Each are just 2.5 games back of the Eastern Conference’s leading team, the Miami Heat. A lot of things can happen between now and the end of the regular season. A win here would be crucial for the Celtics to take the Atlantic Division. Moreover, to better their situation come in the postseason. Granted, the Bulls have covered four straight in this rivalry going back to April of last year. However, these are two very different teams right now. Boston owns the top defense in the NBA, ranking number one in points allowed, number one and field goal percentage, number two in three-point percentage, and 11th on the defensive boards.  The last month and a half Chicago have really struggled going just 6-13 straight up and 5-14 against the spread. They played last night and got crushed, 127-106 at home against Milwaukee. This was the second of back-to-back home losses for the team. Meanwhile a fresher, Boston team comes in here off a huge demolishing of Washington on Sunday, 144-102. Look for the Celtics to better their situation with a big win and for us, a cover here tonight. The Bulls are 1-10 against the spread the last 11 games played versus teams with the winning percentage above .600, 17-35 against read the last 52 games played as an underdog, and 9-21 against the spread the last 30 home games played versus teams with a winning record. Take Boston. Thank you.

Milwaukee Bucks

NBA APRIL EASTERN CONFERENCE GAME OF THE MONTH.

Game 567.

5:10 pm pst/ 8:10 pm est.

With just four games remaining in the regular season, the Bucks sit in the third seed in the Eastern Conference, just a half-game behind the Celtics, and 2.5 games behind the Heat. The defending NBA champions are looking to better their seeding and grab the top-spot in the Conference. Playing the slumping Bulls is just what the doctor prescribes to do just that. Milwaukee has dominated Chicago, winning nine of the last 10 meetings straight up including all three this season, covering the two most recent, both last month. This team needs to go into the postseason with momentum. They have dropped each of the last two outings both straight up and against the spread to a Clippers team that pulled all their starters and a Mavericks squad just two days ago. The Bucks will bounce back here to boost their confidence come the playoffs. The Bulls are a mess, dropping 12 of the last 18 straight up and 13 of those 18 against the number. FYI, most of those games were with Vukovic, LaVine, and DeRozan all available. Since the All-Star break, Milwaukee has ranked second in the NBA in rebounding. That is where this game will be won, on the boards. Chicago just cannot contend on the glass in this matchup. They are outclassed and outmanned on both ends of the court. Look for the Bucks to also exploit the Bulls 26th ranked three-point defense with their fifth-ranked three-point shooting offense. With the Boston Celtics up next followed by the Detroit Pistons and the Cleveland Cavaliers to finish out their regular season, the Milwaukee Bucks will get back on their winning ways and make a statement to the rest of the Eastern Conference here. Milwaukee is 10-1 against the spread the last 11 games played in Chicago, 5-1 against the spread the last six games played following an ATS loss, 7-2 against the spread the last nine games played as a road favorite, 7-2 against the spread the last nine games played on one days rest, and 10-4 against the spread the last 14 games played overall. Take the Bucks. Thank you.

Kansas.

NATIONAL TITLE GAME WINNER.

Game 722.

6:20 pm pst.

Without question, both combatants deserve to be here in the National Title Game. However, I really do feel the line is way off. Kansas should be several points higher as a favorite. North Carolina is well coached and has played extremely strong to close out the regular season and during this postseason. However, the Jayhawks are one the toughest teams in the nation, defensively. Look at their two recent games played against other defensive powerhouses, the Cavaliers and the Hokies. They did beat Virginia 63-43 But, the Tar Heels offense sputtered. Then they lost to Virginia Tech 72-59, another poor offensive output. UNC lives and dies by the “3“. Well, that doesn’t bode too well as the Jayhawks own a top-20 three-point defense. Offensively, Kansas matches up quite well with the lax, North Carolina defense. They have both, big men and athletic guards. Not only that but they can go to the well and rotate in fresh legs throughout the contest as they are significantly deeper. The Jayhawks are 7-2 against the spread the last nine games played as a favorite, 6–2 against spread the last eight games played on neutral sites, and 7-2 against the spread of the last nine games played following a straight up win. Take Kansas. Thank you.

Duke.

Game 704.

5:45 pm pst

Sports fans, the drama surrounding this Final Four matchup is unrivaled. North Carolina and Duke have been going out each other for as far back as I can remember. Obviously, there’s the story surrounding Coach Mike Krzyzewski retiring after this Tournament. And obviously, the team wants to win for him. There’s also all the brouhaha surrounding the fact that Duke took the first meeting this season back in February by 20-points and then in Coach K’s final game at Cameron Indoor Stadium North Carolina shredded them by 13-points. Hubert Davis is a good coach. He’s done a lot with his Tar Heels team this season. But he is certainly outmanned and outclassed here. It goes without saying he doesn’t have anywhere near the coaching experience as his counterpart. Nor does he have his big game intelligence or savvy. The Blue Devils score more offensively and allow less defensively. They’re also one the most accurate teams in the country both from beyond the arc and overall, from the floor. Let’s not forget the fact that they are one of the best in the nation on the offensive boards. North Carolina can score and is accurate from downtown as well. And also grab a lot of offensive rebounds. But the mismatch you’re going to see is between the Duke offense and the North Carolina defense. There is a huge disparity in ability, talent, and statistics. The Blue Devils can go to the well for fresh legs throughout the game as they are a little bit deeper and have that monster frontcourt with four big men in the starting lineup. The Tar Heels are 8-18-1 against spread the last 27 neutral side games played as underdog and 2-6 against spread eight NCAA Tournament games played as an underdog. Take Duke. Thank you.

Kansas.

Game 701.

3:05 pm pst.

Both teams deserve to be here. Please take note that Kansas had no problems dispatching of two Big East representatives in this Tournament in Creighton and Providence. And so, this tells you all the hoopla about facing a physical, Big East team is all smoke and mirrors. Upfront, the Jayhawks are just as big and just as strong. And in the back court, just as explosive. Please remember that the Wildcats number two scorer during both the regular and postseason, Justin Moore is out for this matchup. Unfortunately, the guard tore his Achilles in the last game. Replacing him with someone with less experience and less ability is going to be fatal for the team in this matchup. KU is just too deep both inside and out for their adversary here. And don’t forget that they are excellent on the offensive boards, which allows them to get a ton of second chance shots. The Jayhawks are 9-3 against the spread the last 12 games played following a straight up win, 5-2 against the spread the last seven games played versus teams with the winning percentage above. 600, and 6-2 against the spread the last eight games played overall. Take Kansas. Thank you.

Charlotte.

SD Play.

Game 521.

9:40 am pst.

Normally I would look to play a team of Philadelphia’s caliber following losses to decent teams like Phoenix and Milwaukee and then losing to a bad team like Detroit. However, Charlotte is running red-hot. The Hornets currently have officially qualified for the play-in tournament for the second consecutive season. But they are far from happy with this. And they can certainly better their situation. With five games remaining in their regular season, they can creep up several seeds without a doubt. Losing three straight has dropped the 76ers into the number four spot in the Eastern Conference. We’re seeing problems between Coach Doc Rivers and his superstar James Harden over recent weeks. The Philly offense is just dismal, ranking 21st in scoring, 18th in field goal percentage, and 29th on the boards. They just can’t keep pace with the fifth ranked Charlotte ”O”.  Throw in the mix the fact that Gordon Hayward is expected to make his return tonight after missing over 22 games and this offense will get even better. By the way, the Hornets have won eight of the last 10 straight up, covering seven of those 10 outings. They are also 7-1-1 against the spread the last nine games played on two days rest, 6-1-1 against the spread the last eight games played as a road underdog, and 15-5-1 against read the last 21 overall road games. The 76ers are 1-5 against the spread the last six games played on one days rest, 2-6-1 against the spread the last nine games played as a favorite, and 3-7 against the spread the last 10 games played at home. Take Charlotte. Thank you.

Coastal Carolina.

TBC TGW.

Game 894.

3:00 pm pst.

Well sports fans, two teams that certainly deserve to be in the TBC Title game are matching up today. Fresno State, which owns one of the nastiest and stingiest defenses in all of college basketball, travels nearly 2700 miles to Conway, South Carolina to face a striding Coastal Carolina team. There is no doubt that on a regular basis the Bulldogs face a little tougher level of competition then does the Chanticleers. However, looking at both schedules, Fresno State had some issues earlier in the season with Cal, San Francisco, and Utah, and in their own conference against the top-tier teams. On the other hand, Coastal Carolina stepped up in class and took down Valparaiso and South Carolina earlier on his campaign and did well against the best teams in their league. Another major difference is the fact that the Bulldogs are just 1-4 against the spread this postseason while the Chanticleers are 3-1 against the spread in the playoffs. As a matter of fact, Coastal Carolina is 6-1 ATS the last seven games overall. I know how good the Fresno State defense is however, their offense just can’t compensate in this matchup. If you look at their last few games, they allowed Eastern Washington to post 74 points and Youngstown State to put up 71 points. These are not offensive powerhouses, folks. Not only can Coastal Carolina score points and drain “3’s”, but they are monsters on the offensive boards as well. They too have a decent defense ranking among the best in the nation defending the perimeter and only allowing 65.1 points per game on the season. Orlando Robinson is a monster. No doubt about that. However, Essam Mostafa can outmuscle the big man. And at the very least give him a hard time and slow him down a bit. The Chanticleers backcourt of Cole, Williams, and Dibba are a little more athletic than their counterparts and will control the tempo here. The Bulldogs are 1-4 against the spread the last five games played as a favorite. The Chanticleers are 4-0 against the spread the last four games played versus teams with a winning percentage above .600. Take Coastal Carolina. Thank you.

Atlanta.

EC GOM.

Game 586.

4:40 pm pst.

Both teams here are hoping for playoffs appearances. Currently the Cavaliers are seventh in the East. Atlanta, at the moment is in tenth and they are trying to catch an eighth-place Brooklyn team and a ninth-place Charlotte team. Both played last night as a Cavaliers took a 120-112 loss at home against the Mavericks while the Hawks visited Oklahoma City and beat the Thunder, 136-118 to give the team their third consecutive win and cover. They had a short plane ride home for today’s matchup. The Cavaliers have been bitten badly by the injury bug. Allen has been out for a while joining Rondo, Wade, and Sexton. However just added to the injured list is center, Evan Mobley. Now with him out this team seems like they just can’t score at all. They have failed to cover six in a row and nine of the last 11 outings. As a matter fact, they lost and failed to cover the two most-recent meetings with Atlanta, coming at the end of December and mid-February. And that was when they were at full strength. The last few weeks the Hawks have taken it to another level winning eight of the last 11 straight up. This is a team that is back at to where they used to be, dominating opponents on their home court, where the Hawks are 13-6 against the spread the last 19 games played at the State Farm Arena. Cleveland’s numbers are just horrible as they are 0-7 against the spread the last seven games played on zero days rest, 5-11 against the spread the last 16 games played following a straight up loss, and 2-6 against the spread the last eight games played on the road. Look for superstar, Trae Young to once again light up the Cavaliers as he has accounted for 35 and 41 points in the last two meetings. Take Atlanta. Thank you.

Toronto.

SD Play.

Game 568.

4:40 pm pst.

Both teams look like they’re in decent positions for a play-in spot at least, come the postseason. However, Toronto knows that both Brooklyn and Charlotte are right behind them and they need a couple of wins right now to close out the regular season. Minnesota’s high-powered offense is not compensating for their atrocious defense anymore, dropping three of the last four both straight up and against the spread. The Raptors had no problem taking the only meeting with the T-Wolves this season, a road win and cover approximately six weeks ago. Now they play at home in which during their current homestand they have won all three contests going 2-1 against the number. Minnesota is 1-5 against the spread the last six meetings in the series, 1-7 against the spread the last eight games played as a road underdog, and 2-7 against the spread the last nine games played versus teams with a winning home record. Take Toronto. Thank you.

Boston

OM Play.

Game 570.

4:40 pm pst.

Miami’s issues stretch way beyond their problems on the floor. Obviously with coaches and players arguing on the sidelines this team is in a lot more trouble than we originally thought. They finally got a win and a cover two nights ago following a 2-5 straight up run while going 0-7 against the spread. Meanwhile Boston has been playing some outstanding basketball behind the number one ranked defense in the entire NBA. It’s hard to believe that their game will improve this evening as both Tatum and Brown sat out Monday’s overtime loss in Toronto. Both star players are expected to return tonight (check status). The Celtics are on a killer run as they were on a six game straight up hot streak prior to that loss just two days ago. And they have been getting bettors paid going 6-1 against the spread the last seven. This is a big game with serious postseason implications. The Celtics, which are in better shape at the moment, want this victory to have that mental edge over the Heat come the playoffs. Miami is 0-4 against the spread the last four games played versus teams with a straight up winning record. Boston is 5-0 against the spread the last five games played following straight up loss. Take the Celtics. Thank you.

Dallas.

LVSM

Game 561.

 4:10 pm pst.

Sports fans, there are a few factors contributing to why I like the Dallas Mavericks today. For starters, Cleveland is without a few key players including Jarrett Allen. And last night Evan Mobley got a little bit banged-up and hurt his ankle a bit. Now it looks like (check status) he will be out this evening. On top of that, Luka Doncic played just under 30 minutes last night and he still scored 34 points and snagged 12 rebounds. He will be well rested here today as the Mavericks are looking for their fifth win over the last six games. The Cavaliers are now on a 0-5 no cover streak. There is one more item. The last meeting between these two teams back at the end of November Cleveland handed Dallas one of the worst home losses this season shellacking them 114-96. Revenge is a factor guys. The Mavericks are 7-2 against the spread the last nine games played at the Cavaliers, 4-0 against the spread the last four games played as a favorite, and 9-3 against the spread the last 12 games played versus teams with a winning record. Thanks Dallas. Thank you.

TBC GOM.

Game 887.

5:00 pm pst.

You know sometimes when March rolls around it is difficult to try to gauge some of these matchups as they do not play each other during the regular season. However, today’s TBC matchup between Coastal Carolina South Alabama is not one of those times. These two teams both hail from the Sun Belt Conference. And let’s be honest, normally the top-four teams in every conference separate themselves from the rest. And these two representatives are right in the middle sporting 8-8 and 9-7 conference marks this season. They only met once this year as the Jaguars took a three-point win and cover over the Chanticleers. That contest took place about seven weeks ago. USA stole the victory with a three-point shot in the last minute. One thing you should take note of is that CC won the battle of the boards. They are one of the best offensive rebounds in squads in the nation and they’re pretty darn good on the defense of glass as well. They will take from the loss, come back here and avenge it. They possess one of the nastiest defenses in the country allowing just 65.1 points per game on 38.4% shooting. They have won and covered five of the last six games coming into today’s match up, both straight up and against the spread. On the other hand, the Jaguars have lost three of the last five both straight up and against the spread. This includes three consecutive no covers. The Chanticleers have too much muscle in the paint with center, Essam Mostafa. South Alabama is just 1-4 against spread the last five games played as a home favorite, 2-5 against the spread the last seven games played following an ATS loss, and 1-5 against the spread the last six games played overall. Coastal Carolina is 4-1 against the spread the last five games played as a road underdog, 4-1 against the spread their last five road games played versus teams with a winning home record, and 5-1 against the spread their last six games played overall. Take the Chanticleers. Thank you.

Miami Florida.

Game 645.

11:20 am pst.

Miami has played outstanding basketball over the last few weeks. They enter today’s Elite Eight contest covering all three Big Dance matchups. On the other hand, Kansas had their hands full in the last two rounds with Creighton and Providence, failing to cover both. The Hurricanes match up well with the Jayhawks. Offensively, look for Miami’s backcourt to control the tempo. Meanwhile defensively putting the same pressure on Kansas as they did the last several opponents. The Jayhawks were lucky to pull out the win against the Friars on Friday. The front court is struggling. And things will get worse here against the well-coached, aggressive ‘Canes defense. Miami is 19-6-1 against the spread the last 26 teams played as an underdog and 15-5-1 against the spread the last 21 games played overall. Kansas is 3-7 against the spread the last 10 games played followed an ATS loss and 1-5 against the spread the last six NCAA Tournament games. Take the Hurricanes. Thank you.

Providence.

Game 635.

4:25 pm pst.

Providence enters today’s Sweet 16 contest knowing they totally dismantled each of their previous NCAA Tournament opponents. They devoured both South Dakota State and Richmond offensively while defensively holding both teams to an average of 54.0 points per game. Ed Cooley‘s boys are comprised of a slew of fourth-and-fifth-year college players. They have a ton of experience overall. Particularly in big game situations. And they are well-coached and disciplined. The Friars have accumulated a 27-5 record this season going 19-13 against the spread. They dominated the Big East conference, which happens to be one of the most physical leagues in college basketball. This will be an issue for the Jayhawks. Yes, Kansas has some big strong players. And yes, they can score points. But Providence counters that offense with a big, strong front court and a very talented back court. As I mentioned, the Jayhawks have had issues once again this season when facing opponents that play aggressive and physical basketball. This match up certainly favors the Friars. They are 19-7 against the spread the last 26 games played as an underdog, 19-7 against the spread the last 26 games played versus teams with a winning record, and 5-2 against the spread the last seven games played overall. Take Providence. Thank you

Houston.

Game 623.

6:59 pm pst.

In any sport, postseason experience plays a significant factor. Having said that, this is the third straight season that Houston has advanced to the Sweet 16. Meanwhile, Arizona is making its first Sweet 16 appearance in six years. Basketball particularly at the collegiate level is about matchups. With all respect to the Wildcats and their high-powered offense, the Cougars defense own the best defense they’ve seen in quite a while. Houston enters this contest winning and covering all five of their postseason games and going back a little bit, is on a 9-1 run both straight up and against the spread. I mentioned matchups earlier. The Cougars have the size and the speed to slow down the Wildcats offense and they certainly will dominate on the glass here. Aside from their size upfront, their backcourt is just as fast, just as talented, and just as savvy. Houston is 12-3 against the spread the last 15 games played as an underdog and 25-9 against the spread the last 34 games played on neutral sites. Arizona is 0-4 against the spread the last four NCAA tournament games played as a favorite, and 4-11 against the spread the last 15 games played on neutral sites. Take the Cougars. Thank you.

Villanova.

Game 626.

4:29 pm pst.

Michigan making it this far has certainly been a nice story. But stories are made for you to read to your children at bedtime. And it’s time for the Wolverines to be put to sleep. One thing for sure, this is a team that was inconsistent all season long. Case in point, they have won two games in a row in this Tournament, but they have not won three consecutive games this entire campaign. Villanova has been the epitome of the word “consistent.” They played strong basketball throughout the entire regular season and swept through the postseason winning all five outings. Center, Hunter Dickinson is going to give any opponent problems. However, his supporting cast isn’t as deep or as strong as their adversary’s is here today. The Wildcats have the muscle and the big men to rotate on the 7’1” standout. Two more major factors benefit the Wildcats. The first is being that they have a nasty, swarming defense that will frustrate the Wolverines offense for sure. The second thing is that this is going to be a very physical game. And when it comes down to free throws, they also possess the number one ranked free-throw shooting team in the nation. A place where Michigan has had problems the entire year. The Wildcats are 17-4 against the spread the last 21 NCAA Tournament games played as a favorite. The Wolverines are 1-7 against this spread the last eight games played following an ATS win. Take Villanova. Thank you.

Arkansas.

Game 627.

4:09 pm pst.

Sports fans, I am not looking to take away anything from Gonzaga. The Bulldogs certainly deserve all the praise and accolades in the world. They’re a very good basketball team. But I think we can all agree that their level of competition overall, might not be a strong as their adversary here today faces. They only lost three games this season. They lost at the end of November to a mediocre, Duke team. They lost in the beginning of December to a mediocre Alabama team. And I will give them a mulligan on the final game of the regular season losing by 10 to Saint Mary’s. It’s true, overall, the Razorbacks numbers on both ends of the court aren’t as impressive. But they also play much tougher competition. And they enter today’s match up on a 17-3 straight up run. When Jaylin Williams is your number four scorer in the postseason, your offense is clicking on all cylinders. Gonzaga certainly has an advantage upfront between Drew Timme and Andrew Nembhard. But Eric Musselman utilizes his bench as good as any coach in the game. This is way too many points to give an Arkansas team that is 4-0 against the spread the last four games played as an underdog, 10-4 against the spread the last 13 games played following a straight up win, and 15-5 against the spread the last 20 games played overall. By the way, Gonzaga is point spread poison, going 0-4-1 against the spread the last five games played versus teams with a winning percentage above .600, 0-4 against the spread the last four NCAA Tournament games played as a favorite, and 1-3-1 against the spread the last five games played following an ATS loss. Take Arkansas. Thank you.

Joe's NIT QF WASHINGTON STATE/BYU WINNER

Washington State.

NIT QF WINNER.

Game 619.

6:00 pm pst.

BYU is certainly a good team and there’s no questioning some of the West Coast conferences representatives are very good. But for the most part, they do not play as competitive a level of opponent on a regular basis as does Washington State does in the Pac-12. In this tournament alone, Washington State has played a better level of opponent than BYU. But we will get to that in a moment. Both teams are loaded with talented athletes. Both have athletic back courts. And both have strong men upfront. But I do believe BYU will come in here a little overconfident having beaten Long Beach State by 21 and Northern Iowa by 19. Guys, they were supposed to beat them both by a ton of points. They will have a false sense of confidence for sure. Washington State played two solid adversaries in Santa Clara, which they beat by 13 and SMU, which they beat by 12. Stronger efforts against better teams for sure. This is a very good team with a talented squad and is very well coached. Not to mention that BYU is 3-7 against the spread the last 10 games played following a straight up win. Take Washington State. Thank you.

Wake Forest.

NIT QF WINNER.

Game 617.

4:00 pm pst.

To be honest with you Texas A&M has done better in Tournament play this March than most of the other SEC representatives. But the time has come for them to pack their bags and go back home. Wake Forest is a monster team, with a monster offense, and comes into this matchup rolling. I give a lot of credit to this Aggies team, which has now won nine of the last 10 straight up, going 8-2 against the spread. However, the Demon Deacons have played consistent basketball since opening day back in November. Behind one of the best players in the nation, Alondes Williams, they possess one of the most explosive offenses in college basketball. Believe it or not, the star guard is currently the third highest leading scorer this postseason for the team. Upfront, Jake LaRavia and Dallas Walton are absolutely dominating in the paint, combining for 29.3 points per game and 12.7 rebounds per game this postseason. Texas A&M just doesn’t have the personnel to compete down low here. The Aggie’s are 0-4 against the spread the last four games played at home versus teams with a winning road record. The Demon Deacons are 6-1 against the spread the last seven games played as a road underdog. Take a Wake Forest. Thank you.

UNCW.

CBI CHAMP GAME WINNER.

Game 621.,

2:00 pm pst.

Well sports fans, both teams finished atop their conferences and both ran through this tournament pretty easily. However, I do feel the Seahawks have faced and played a higher level of competition this season overall. The Blue Raiders own a bit better numbers. But I do believe those statistics are a little bit skewed as I feel their level of competition just isn’t as strong as their opponents is here. Both teams have excellent back courts and a strong big man upfront. But NC Wilmington has been absolute money this season covering 21 of their last 26 outings. As a matter of fact, they are 13-3 against the spread the last 16 games played aa an underdog, 14-3 against the spread the last 17 games played versus teams with a winning record, and 5-1 against the spread the last six games played on neutral sites. Can’t go against those ATS trends. Take the Seahawks. Thank you.

New York.

CTB play.

Game 540.

4:30 pm pst.

To say the Knicks are the Hawks kryptonite would be an understatement. New York has had their way with Atlanta winning and covering the last three meetings in the series, all of which were this season. There is no debating that Trae Young has been excellent this season. However, his supporting cast has been just horrible. John Collins is out. And Bogdan Bogdanovic is dealing with a quad injury and is listed as questionable. The Hawks have failed to cover the last five games played on the road and overall, enter this matchup in a 1-8 against the spread run. New York has won two of their last three, all of which have been played at home in the Garden. And are on a 7-2 ATS hot streak. The Hawks are 0-7 against the spread the last seven games played as a favorite, 1-6 against the spread the last seven games played as a road favorite, and 1-5 against the spread the last six games played on one days rest. The Knicks are 4-0 against spread the last four games played following a straight up loss, 6-1 against the spread the last seven games played as an underdog, and 5-2 against the spread the last seven games played on one days rest. Take New York. Thank you.

Raptors.

EC GOM.

Game 529.

5:10 pm pst.

If you’re concerned that Toronto played last night in Philadelphia, don’t be. This is a team that’s 10-4 against the spread the last 14 games played on zero days rest. Personally, I believe the wrong team is favored here. Yes, I know Chicago has won covered five of the last six meetings in this rivalry. But the Raptors are one of the hottest teams in the NBA, winning and covering six of their last seven outings. The Bulls continue to disappoint, losing and failing to cover three straight. As a matter fact, they are on a 2-8 straight up run, only covering one of those last 10 games. The fact that Fred VanVleet rested last night tells me he will play here tonight (check status) and the team seriously wants this victory. Toronto will look to send a message to the rest of the Eastern Conference to the teams that are currently ahead of them in the seeding. They are 6-0 against the spread the last six games played on the road, 5-0 against the spread the last five road games played versus teams with a winning home record, and 4-0 against the spread the last four games played versus teams with a winning percentage above .600. Chicago is 0-7 against the spread the last seven games played following a straight up loss, 8-19 against the spread the last 27 home games played versus teams with a winning road record, and 2-5 against the spread the last seven games played on two days rest. Take the Raptors. Thank you.

Hornets.

SLAM DUNK.

Game 526.

4:10 pm pst.

Yes folks, I’m well aware of the fact that the visitor has covered the last six meetings in the series. And I also know that New Orleans has covered three of their last four. However, Charlotte is running red-hot, winning and covering four in a row. They also didn’t play last night like the Pelicans did on the road in Atlanta. With their current surge of injuries, including top-scorer and solid rebounder, Brandon Ingram, I just don’t feel New Orleans is going to be able to compete in this one and will come in here with tired legs following last night’s contest. The Pelicans are 2-6 against the spread their last eight games played on zero days rest, 1-4 against the spread their last five games played as an underdog, and 2-5 against the spread their last seven games played overall. Take the Hornets. Thank you.

Purdue is certainly a good team. However, being a good team and covering games are two entirely different things. The Boilermakers have covered just eight times since December. I and if you’re keeping track that is 8-20 against the spread their last 28 contests. And their offense, which ranks seventh in the nation averaging over 80.7 points per game, has not hit the 80-point mark in the last 10 outings. Now they have to face the ninth ranked swarming defense of the Longhorns. Take Texas. Thank you.

Sports fans, Texas Tech is a very good team. However, I believe they’re going to come in here a little overconfident following the 35-point demolishing over Montana State just two days ago. That marked only their second cover since the end of February as they are on a 2-5 against the spread run. To say the ACC has done well this postseason is an understatement. And in comes a Notre Dame team which came into this tournament a bit angry having to play in the first-four and beat Rutgers. Then, in round 1 they decimated Alabama. Giving this team this many points is a huge mistake made by the odds makers. While on paper the Red Raiders are a bit more impressive. Basketball is not played on paper. It’s played on the hardwood and Notre Dame certainly is hungrier and comes in here with less pressure. They are also 5-1 against the spread the last six games played as underdog, 10-3 against spread the less 13 games played versus team to the winning record, and 12-5 against the spread the last 17 games played following a straight up win. Take the Fighting Irish. Thank you

Wisconsin comes in here possessing the better starting-five, is much deeper on the bench, and has Johnny Davis. The guard is the best player on the floor by far. The fact that the Cyclones run a four-guard set puts them in a little bit of trouble here. The Badgers are a little stronger, excuse me, a lot stronger upfront as well and they will win the battle of the boards here. By the way, this is basically a home game for Wiscy too. Take Wisconsin. Thank you.

North Texas owns some very impressive statistics. However, those stats were earned in Conference USA play. Now they’re playing a talented ACC representative. And the Mean Green weren’t so mean when they had a step up and out of their conference. They took beatings from the likes of the Jayhawks, the Hurricanes, and even the Blazers. Virginia is going to play with extra motivation as they felt they should’ve made the Big Dance. This is a team that can also play defense. As a matter of fact, they allow just 60.4 points per game. They unlike their opponent here today are accustomed to playing some very big named teams. North Texas doesn’t have the strength or the muscle to compete in this one and making them a favorite is a big mistake. They are 1-8 against the spread the last nine home games played versus teams with the winning road record. Virginia is 4-1 against the spread the last five games played versus teams with a winning percentage over 600. Take the Cavaliers. Thank you.