Minnesota at Brooklyn 7:30 ET

Nets (+) over Timberwolves- There is something about this Minnesota team that I can’t quite put my finger on as fall as why they continually fail in key situations. On Monday Karl-Anthony Towns scored a franchise record 62 points for the Timberwolves on Monday in a loss to Charlotte blowing an 18-point lead. The Nets are 4-16 SU in their last 20 and just 2-11 with both wins back-to-back over Detroit. Brooklyn despite their poor SU record (10-11 SU at home) they are 12-7-2 ATS at home. This is the first first meeting of the season between these two with the Nets winning four of the past six. Take BROOKLYN!

Boston at Miami 7:30 ET

Heat (+) over Celtics- A rematch of last year’s Eastern Conference Finals has the Conference Champion Miami on a four-game slide after falling to lowly Memphis last night. The Heat added Terry Rozier who averaged 23.2 points for Charlotte before being picked up by the Heat who surrendered Kyle Lowery who was scoring just 8.2 PPG. and he should help the Heat as he becomes part of their team chemistry. Take MIAMI!

Philadelphia at Indiana 7:00 ET

Pacers (+) over 76ers- For all of those that disputed Joel Embiid receiving the 2022-23 NBA Most Valuable Player Award what are they to do this season when their vote comes up this season because he has undoubtedly been even better this season. Not only did Embiid score 70 points on Monday against the Spurs but he pulled down  18 rebounds as Philadelphia won their sixth straight game as he raised his NBA leading scoring average to 36.1 points per game. Although the Pacers will be without their leading scorer Tyree Haliburton ( 23.6 PPG) they have enough fire-power to overcome his absence. These two have split a pair of early season meeting in Philadelphia with the Pacers winning the last meeting 132-126. More of that here. Take INDIANA

Colorado State at Nevada 10:30 ET

Rams (+) over Wolf Pack- Colorado State was a ranked team earlier this season but are win-less in a pair of Mountain West Conference games and that spells bad news. Nevada is 9-1 SU at home and although they defeated the Rams in their lone meeting last season the Wolf Pack have dropped three of the previous four meetings and enter this fray having lost their last three. These two clubs grade out almost dead even but the Rams play better defense. Take COLORADO STATE!

Phoenix at Dallas 8:30 ET

Mavericks (+) over Suns- It looks like Phoenix has finally put it together winning six straight and 11 of their last 14 games after sinking below .500 with a loss to Dallas on Christmas Day. The Suns are embarking on a seven game road trip their longest of the season. The Mavericks are off their loss to Boston on Monday and willhave a healthy (at least physically) Kyrie Irving and Doncic had 50 points against the Suns last month. Take DALLAS!

NC State at Virginia 7:00 ET

Wolfpack (+) over Cavaliers- I tried to avoid this game for various reasons but I kept coming back to it because I believe that I have the winner. Virginia lost their first four road games by 16 points or more until 75-66 win at Georgia Tech, but NC State has no such issues as they are 3-1 SU in true road games. One of the Cavaliers road losses was in Raleigh 76-60 to the Wolfpack nearly three weeks ago and I believe that they have improved to the point that they should be favored like they are. Take NORTH CAROLINA STATE!  

Maryland at Iowa 7:00 ET

Terrapins (+) over Hawkeyes- Iowa had their three game win streak end Saturday in Ames by Purdue 84-70. They played as well as they could shooting well and protecting the ball with only seven turnovers but a 50-24 rebound deficit was way too much to overcome. Since defeating Illinois 76-67 ten days ago Maryland has dropped their last two including a Sunday loss to Michigan State 61-59 where they had the looks but missed the shots. The Hawkeyes have won the last four meetings but are just 5-6 ATS at home while the Terrapins are snapping at their heel which will be on the floor because they don’t rebound. Take MARYLAND!

Houston at B.Y.U. 9:00 ET

Cougars (+) over Cougars- The most unlikely same conference ‘rivals’ will meet for just the third time is schools history with each winning on the others floor back in 2018 and ‘19. Houston currently No. 4 is 1-2 SU in true road games this season and 0-3 ATS while BYU is 10-1 SU at home going 9-2 ATS and the Cougars return home after a loss Saturday at Texas Tech while Houston recovered from a one-point loss at TCU with huge wins over Texas Tech and UCF. Home cooking is the answer here especially for this dog. Take BRIGHAM YOUNG!

New York at Brooklyn 7:30 ET

Nets (+) over Knicks- New York has a new look as trades have changed the dynamics of a clubs that has improved defensively with the addition of OG Anunoby. The Knicks have won the past three meetings by a total of 61 points and Brooklyn is off a loss to the LA Clippers after leading 16-0 and leading by 18 points in the third quarter getting outscored 41-14 in the fourth quarter allowing the Clips to score the games final 22 points while losing their 15th game in their last 19. Still, I am looking for the Nets to return home and give a full game effort against their inter-city rival. Take  BROOKLYN!  

Kentucky at South Carolina 7:00 ET

Gamecocks (+) over Wildcats- This Kentucky team is good, good enough to win it all when it comes down to tourney time and like the LA Dodgers they keep adding key pieces that improves the team dynamics. Not it was bad but having a 7-foot 2-inch European center who is a great shooter (3-of-4 3-pointers) and re-bounder that loves getting assists. Zvonimir Ivisic from Croatia made his debut against Georgia and play 16 minutes off the bench scoring 13 points. South Carolina meanwhile bounced back at Arkansas after a home loss to Georgia who the Wildcats just hammered. Kentucky has been a great cover this season (11-6 ATS) but the Gamecocks are 9-1 SU at home. Although, the Cats have a huge series advantage(54-14 they have split the last six meetings. Take SOUTH CAROLINA!

Texas at Oklahoma 7:00 ET

Longhorns (+) over Sooners- Texas is an paradox as they have a winning record of 13-5 SU but have been an alumni nightmare going 5-13 ATS. No. 11 Oklahoma (15-3) is undefeated 9-0 at home and were a part of our Megabucks winner Saturday against Cincinnati. The Longhorns have won the last five meetings and just broke a two-game losing streak with a win over Baylor on Saturday regaining much needed confidence. Against the spread number move toward the center with this final. Take TEXAS!

Cincinnati at Kansas 9:00ET

Bearcats (+) over Jayhawks- Over the years Kansas has dominated most of the action the Big-12 except for one nemesis and that is playing at West Virginia where they are 5-7 and lost once again Saturday in Morgantown as turnovers spelled defeat. Cincinnati was blown out in the second half at home against Oklahoma the same day as they got ‘killed on the boards’ said coach Wes Miller. He has put his club threw the riggers of intense practices and the Bearcats will be more aggressive against the No. 3 Jayhawks. Take CINCINNATI!

Cleveland at Orlando 7:00 ET

Magic (+) over Cavaliers- Cleveland has won six straight and it has been their stellar defense that is turning their offense on leading to season high winning streak. In each of their last three wins they held their opponents under 100 points and won by 18 points or more. Orlando who ha lost five of six before their Megabucks win over Miami yesterday allowing Miami a season low 87 points. These two have split their two meetings with Banchero leading the ways with a 42-point performance. Take ORLANDO!

Miami at Orlando 6:00 ET

Magic over Heat- These two Florida clubs have dropped their last two games with Orlando losing five of their last six games. Miami will be at full strength as Tyler Herro, Jimmy Butler and Ben Adebayo are finally playing together as a unit as injuries have prevented them from meshing as a cohesive unit. The Heat have won both meeting between these clubs this season and it is time for the Magic to pull off tricks and win her. Take ORLANDO!

Memphis at Tulane 1:00 ET

Green Wave (+) over Tigers- Both of these rivals are coming off defeats and more than likely were caught look toward this national TV game in New Orleans. Not many know how intense the rivalry is between these two, so much so that in the point shaving scandal by Tulane they refused to lay down against one team...Memphis. No, maybe the Green Wave can’t stand up with the Tigers talent wise but they will band together to take down a team that only had seven assists in their loss blowing a 20-point lead to Central Florida. Take TULANE!

Oklahoma City at Minnesota 8:00 ET

Thunder (+) over Timberwolves- Both of these clubs have shown that they are playoff worthy and have stars that can take over a game at any time. Minnesota has won their last four games and are off an easy 118-103 romp over Memphis while OKC has been as consistent as ever winning five of seven and 10-of-14. Anthony Edwards leads the T’wolves scoring 26.1 PPG and the Thunder are led by Gilgeous-Alexander who’s all around game has OKC ranked second in points at 122.2 PPG. The Timberwolves are first in scoring defense allowing 107.4 PPG and are 17-2 SU at home but are only favored by one bucket and that seems shallow to me. Take OKLAHOMA CITY!

Oklahoma State at Kansas state 7:00 ET

Cowboys (+) over Wildcats- Oklahoma State is 0-4 (SU and ATS) in Big-12 action and they have lost by and average of 16.5 points. Kansas State is reminding me of what the Steelers were in the NFL this season as their numbers are not impressive but they manage to win. The Wildcats have gone overtime five times and have won them all including a victory over Baylor. This game figures to play close as the Cowboys rally after a blowout loss at Kansas and the Wildcats should be a little over-confident. Take OKLAHOMA STATE!

Brigham Young at Texas Tech 6:00 ET

Cougars (+) over Red Raiders- In recent seasons all we hear from the media is how the SEC dominates the football scene the ACC the basketball but for the past number of seasons the Big-12 has stepped up and can play with anyone at any level in any sport. Texas Tech was handed their first conference loss on Wednesday as Houston ended the Red Raiders nine game winning streak. Like in most sports when a team has the breaks going their way their confidence is high and then a simple loss allows doubt to creep into your head, and then...Bang-Bang! The lose again! BYU leads the Big-12 in scoring averaging 85.7 PPG and have five players averaging double figures in scoring. take BYU!   

Iowa State at Texas Christian 2:00 ET

Cyclones (+) over Horned Frogs- I have heard it before and I will again in the future I am sure, but as one TCU played commented after they blew their second straight conference game ‘our bubble has burst.’ They come off losses to No. 9 Oklahoma and No. 2 Houston and now will face Iowa State a club that is also smarting from a loss last time out to BYU and that after their upset win over Houston. In their loss to the Cougars the Cyclones allowed t87-points they most that they have surrendered since T.J. Otzelberger took over three years ago. They bounce back with a tight defensive performance. Take IOWA STATE!  

Alabama at Tennessee 2:00 ET

Crimson Tide (+) over Volunteers- Trends galore surrounding this contest as two of the SEC’s challengers go at it in Knoxville where the Volunteers host Alabama. Tennessee is a perfect 9-0 SU (5-3-1 ATS) at home and have won 9-of-10 while The Crimson Tide have won six in-a-row. But, the knock on the Tide is that they are 0-3 against ranked teams. They possess one of the top offenses averaging 90.2 ranked No. 4 in the nation. ‘Bama is looking to take down a ranked team and the Volunteers are their victim. Take ALABAMA!

South Carolina and Arkansas

Gamecocks (+) over Razorbacks- Arkansas was one of our Power Play Best Bet winners in their upset of Texas A&M Tuesday so I feel comfortable playing against them as they were coming off three straight losses and losses in six of their previous seven. The Razorbacks are a putrid 5-12 ATS on the season playing with the 320th ranked defense allowing 77.6 PPG while the Gamecocks defense will be the difference as they allow just  64.6 PPG ranking No. 30. Defense rules here. Take SOUTH CAROLINA!

Philadelphia at Orlando 7:00 ET

Magic (+) over 76ers- The numbers are piling up again for Joel Embiid. Last year he was out to win the MVP award and he heard talk of how others may have deserved it in his place and he is out to prove once again that he in the NBA’s most dominate player. His stats are even more impressive this season than last and the 76ers are not nearly as affective when he is sidelined. The Magic have lost four of five and enter a three-game home stand hosting Philadelphia who defeated Orlando 112-92 three weeks ago without Embiid. This time with Joel in the line-up the Magic pull of a winning trick behind Paolo Banchero who has helped turned the franchise around. Take ORLANDO!

Indiana at Sacramento 10:00 ET

Kings (-) over Pacers- Sacramento returns home losing their final three game on their five-game road trip losing to Milwaukee by 1-point and Phoenix by 2-points. This is Indiana’s fourth straight road game and they have dropped their last two at Utah and Denver and will once gain be without Tyrese Haliburton. Still, without their star the Pacers lead the NBA in scoring averaging 125.2 points per game but are at 29th on the defensive end allowing 123.4 PPG. The price is high but for good reason as the Pacers are becoming road weary and the Kings need a win. Take SACRAMENTO!

Oklahoma City at Utah 9:00 ET

thunders (+) over Jazz- Utah had all momentum they need entering yesterday’s shootout with Golden State and then were shocked at the death of the Warriors assistant coach Dejan Milojevic and the cancellation of their game. The Jazz have won six straight and 12 of 14 and will be hosting one of the improved teams in all of sports Oklahoma City who despite a pair of losses in Los Angeles are still 11-8 on the road and have already defeated Utah 134-120 and will do it again here. Take OKLAHOMA CITY!

Illinois at Michigan 8:30 ET

Wolverines (+) over Illini- I expect Illinois even at No. 14 to be the same as they have always been and that is over-rated and able to disappoint their backers at the most inopportune time. The Illini have dropped four spots in the rankings after losing two of their last three including a 76-67 to Maryland on Sunday. Michigan is off to their worst start that I can remember but are off a 73-65 win over Ohio State on Monday (there first ATS win in seven games) and are looking for their first back-to-back conference wins. Wolves are 0-6 SU L-6 meetings but got the money last time out and the previous four meetings. Take MICHIGAN!

UCLA at Arizona State 9:00 ET

Bruins (+) over Sun Devils- Both of these clubs ended four-game streaks last time out as UCLA won over Washington on Sunday and Arizona State was defeated by the Huskies on Thursday. The Bruins had lost to Utah 90-44 the previous game and that was a lesson they won’t forget all to soon as they are filed by a new spirit. UCLA’s confidence should be high as they have defeated the Sun Devils three straight times and six of the last seven meetings with their lone loss having to go overtime. Take UCLA!

Houston at New York 7:30 ET

Rockets (+) over Knicks- Both of these squads have taken huge strides this season with New York changing its chemistry and Houston developing its young talent. Jalen Brunson came over to the Knicks last season is proving to be a future Super-star and with the addition of Anonubi with the departure of the poor shooting JA Barnett the Knicks have become formidable. Houston is off a terrible performance against the 76ers and have been pointing to this game in New York for a while now. Take HOUSTON!

Miami at Toronto 7:30 ET

Raptors (+) over Heat- The Raptors just finished their six game road trip with four straight losses and will glan to be back in the Great White North to host the sun baked Heat. Playing in Miami is wonderful during the winter but traveling is a bitch to start with and then having to land in Toronto can be hostile. The Heat have had their top three players Butler, Herro and Adebayo available for just nine of their 40 games and chemistry is something that has to be developed. Take TORONTO!

Nebraska at Rutgers 7:00 ET

Cornhuskers (+) over Scarlet Knights- It was just eight days ago that Nebraska showed the college basketball world that they belong when they defeated then No. 2 Purdue and than they went out and were beaten at Iowa 94-76. The Cornhuskers have won all three Big Ten games at home and have lost all three conference road games. Rutgers like in football is bring up the rear of the conference and although they are highly ranked defensively they are No. 312 on offense scoring just 67.5 points per game. The line is where is supposed to be for a Cornhuskers victory. Take NEBRASKA!

Creighton at Connecticut 7:00 ET

Blue Jays (+) over Huskies- Back in the saddle again Connecticut is ranked No. 1 as they have won five straight Big East contests after dropped their conference opener to Seton Hall. The Huskies the defending National Champions have met Creighton seven times but have managed just one win as the Blue Jays seem to have the Huskies number. UConn is 9-0 at home while the Jays are 4-1 in true road games and always are ready when playing as dogs. Take CREIGHTON!

Texas A&M at Arkansas 9:00 ET
Razorbacks (+) over Aggies- Texas A&M finally defeated a ranked team Saturday on their third try as they upset No. 6 Kentucky (Megabucks winner) at home 97-92 in overtime. The Aggies now take to the road where they are 2-2 to play Arkansas who they defeated in both meetings last season and are 9-1 ATS in their last 10 encounters. But, this time around A&M is off an emotional overtime win and will have trouble getting ‘up’ for the Razorbacks who are 0-3 in SEC play. Their coach Eric Musselman demands that their defense must improve and they play it better at home. Take ARKANSAS!

Wake Forest at N.C. State 7:00 ET

Demon Deacons over Wolfpack- Wake Forest at 4-1 in ACC action is off to their best start in 19 years and help their last opponent (Virginia) under 50 points and they haven’t done that in over four years. The Demon Deacons average 81 PPG and and allow just 69.3 PPG while NC State scores less per game and allows more points on defense giving the Deacons an advantage. The Wolfpack won their last time out struggling with last place Louisville. Take WAKE FOREST!

Purdue at Indiana 7:00 ET

Boilermakers (-) over Hoosiers- Purdue formerly ranked No. 1 has played three true road games this season and they have won just one of them losing at Northwestern and Nebraska. Indiana has been outstanding at home going 9-1 SU (6-4 ATS) with their lone home defeat coming at the hands of Kansas 75-71 in which they were plus+6.5 and got the money. The Hoosiers swept the series (2-0) last season and have won 3-of-4 meetings including the last two in Bloomington. The Boilermakers have the best big man in college basketball in Zach Edey and a number of capable 3-point shooters which helps open the interior. Take PURDUE!

Oklahoma City at LA Lakers 10:30 ET

Lakers over Thunder- Oklahoma City has now won four straight and nine of 11 while the Lakers continue to struggle as they are 5-12 since winning the silly NBA in-season Tournament. Los Angeles is off a road loss a Utah. But, LA has been shorthanded and will have two fresh legs for this encounter and of course Davis and Lebron. Take the LAKERS!

Chicago at Cleveland 7:00 ET

Bulls (+) over Cavaliers- Fist it was the in-season NBA Tournament and in their expanding effort to showcase the league around the globe the Cavaliers are off a win over Brooklyn in a game played in Paris (Paris, France not Texas in case you were wondering). Played on Thursday Cleveland may still feel the affects of the time difference and adjustment can be more difficult than one might realize. The Cavs have won four straight and are 15-3 SU against teams with losing records and have defeated Chicago five straight times going 4-0-1 ATS. The Bulls have picked up the pace in the New Year and have won four-of-five. Take CHICAGO!

Villanova at Marquette 2:00 ET

Wildcats (+) over Golden Eagles- Marquette enjoyed their best season ever in the Big East last season but are more than likely to drop a few spots this season. Off last year’s fine performance they slipped to their previous form and have lost their last two and four-of-five. Ranked as high as No.3 based on their 17-3 Big East record last season the and winners of the last four meetings they are more than one step below last years standard. Take VILLANOVA!

Houston at Philadelphia 1:00 ET

Rockets (+) over 76ers- Philadelphia is just 3-7 without Joel Embiid but they won an impressive victory over Sacramento w/o Embiid 112-93 on Friday. Houston was just blown out at Boston as the Celtics rebounded from a beat down at the hands of Milwaukee on Saturday 145-113. The Rockets who won just 22 games last season are 19-19 and have dropped three of four and they are 0-4 ATS on their current road trip...today they ply close. Take HOUSTON!

Utah at Stanford 5:00 ET

Cardinal (+) over Utes- Any time a team more than doubles an opponents score and wins by 46 points they are a ‘go against’ or fade them their next time out. Utah just defeated the once proud UCLA Bruins 90-44 setting a high for margin of victory in the PAC-12 and the second worst loss in UCLA’s lustrous history. Stanford eked out an overtime win at Oregon State Thursday night and have shown that they are capable by posting a 100-82 win over No. 4 Arizona. The Cardinal have five guys averaging double-figures and keep this one close. Take STANFORD!

Indiana at Denver 12:30 ET

Nuggets (-) over Pacers- Indiana is red hot having won three straight and nine-of-10 and of late have done it without spectacular Tyrese Haliburton who has a pulled hamstring. In his absence the leagues highest scoring team placed eight different players in scoring last time out in their 126-108 win over Atlanta their third win over them this season. Bruce Brown returns to Denver where he was a big part of the Nuggets championship team last season and he may be able to help with prep notes but when face-to-face with Nikola Jokic no much is going to help. Denver has had some stinkers of late but have still managed to win 10 of their last 13 with Jokic going 73-of -92 (79.3%) from the floor while averaging 10 assists. The Nuggets have won the last six meetings and are 16-4 SU at home and with the line this high against a team as hot as the Pacers I expect a blowout win. Take DENVER!

Cincinnati at Baylor 8:00 ET

Bearcats (+) over Bears- I guess if you are a Bearcat that is a step above being just a Bear. Cincinnati burst onto the Big-12 scene with a win over BYU (really they are Big-12) and blew a late lead by missing free throws in a home loss to Texas. Baylor enters this f ray on a four-game win streak after a come-from-behind victory over BYU last Saturday (defeating our Power Play) outscoring the Cougars by 15 points in the second half. Bearcats out to prove they belong and give the No. 14 Bears all that they can handle. Take CINCINNATI!

Houston at Boston 7:00 ET

Celtics (-) over Rockets- Boston went to Milwaukee Thursday and in the middle of the first half they decided to take to rest of the night off...and that is exactly what they did. Getting annihilated by the Bucks as they scored 25 straight points the Celtics sat anybody that has had any kind playing time down for the rest of the game. They will be ready to play tonight after their worst showing in ages. The Celtics are 18-0 at home and Houston who is greatly improved is just 4-14 on the the road. Take BOSTON!

St. Mary’s at Santa Clara 6:00 ET

Gaels (-) over Broncos- Okay these two clubs may have the same records but they are eons apart as far as a basketball program and overall talent. Santa Clara is coming off an upset win over No. 23 Gonzaga a team that they haven’t defeated since 2011 losing 25 straight to the Zags. The Broncos hangover will spurn on the Gaels who have won he last three meetings and 7-of-10. Take ST. MARY’S!

Kansas State at Texas Tech 4:00 ET

Red Raiders (-) over Wildcats- Coaching match-up today features a pair of former assistant coaches that worked on the same staff at Baylor . They will face off in Lubbock where Kansas State coach Jerome Tang and Red Raiders coach Grant McCasland won’t be able to pull any tricks on each other and know what to expect. The Wildcats may be 2-0 on the road but the Red Raiders home court advantage is Gaels something to acknowledge as they are 9-0 and on a current eight game win streak as they have a high assist rate and low on turnovers. Take TEXAS TECH!

Oklahoma at Kansas 2:00 ET

Sooners (+) over Jayhawks- After winning or sharing part of the Big-12 regular season title Kansas coach Bill Self believes he is a must win game after suffering his first conference loss (1-1) at Central Florida (Megabucks winner). Oklahoma (1-1) also suffered their first Big-12 defeat at TCU last time out. The Jayhawks have defeated the Sooners five straight times although Oklahoma is 3-1 ATS in the last four meetings. But, I must tell you the Sooners haven’t won in Lawrence since  1993 losing 22 consecutive games. OK moving on to the SEC next season want to claim a win at Allen Fieldhouse before they defect. Take OKLAHOMA!

Kentucky at Texas A&M 2:00 ET

Aggies over Wildcats- What we have here is a failure...nah, so No. 6 Kentucky has opened and underdog at Texas A&M and the last time I checked the Aggies have yet to be ranked. The Wildcats opened 2-0 in SEC play while A&M (0-2) is still looking for their first conference victory. It seems a bit ‘strange’ that having reeled off six straight wins and covers (6-0 ATS) with four of their six wins by double-digits. Although Kentucky has won 8-of-10 meetings but the odds makers say not today...take TEXAS A&M!  

Toronto at Utah 9:30 ET

Raptors (+) over Jazz- A team that was considered an also-ran at the start of the season and lost 16 of their first 23 games Utah has now won 9-of-11 and have won their last three defeating Philadelphia, Denver and Milwaukee defeating three of the NBA’s strongest contenders. The Jazz have had their way against Toronto of late winning the last three meetings and six of seven. Although the Raptors are just 6-14 SU on the road they are 11-9 ATS and 7-3 ATS in their last 10 games overall. Utah not used to the favorites role fall short. Take TORONTO!

Indiana at Atlanta 7:30 ET

Hawks (-) over Pacers- Points should not be a problem here as the No. 1 and No. 3 scoring team face off for the third time this season. Indiana leads the NBA in scoring averaging 126.5 PPG and the Hawks are third averaging 122.7 PPG. They have met twice with the Pacers scoring 157 and 150 points winning both contests and have scored over 130 points 15 ties this season. But, they will be without their leading scorer and All-star Tyrese Haliburton who will be out two weeks with a hamstring pull. Hawks starting to get it together after a horrid ATS start at home going 3-12 ATS. Take ATLANTA!

Minnesota at Indiana 6:30 ET

Golden Gophers (+) over Hoosiers- The biggest turn around in college basketball has already taken place with Minnesota who already has 12 wins this season after posting only nine victories last season. The Golden Gophers are off to their best Big Ten start seven years and coach Ben Johnson says that he team now expects to win every time out. Indiana who under Mike Woodson have lost two of three including a road loss at Rutgers on Tuesday when they shot just 26.7% from the free throw line. Making only 4-of-15 free throws shows just what a poor shooting team will exhibit especially in pressure situations. the Gophers are an amazing 14-1 ATS this season. Take MINNESOTA!

Stanford at Oregon State 11:00 ET

Cardinal (-) over Beavers-  Maybe there is something going on that I am not aware of but make me understand how a 7-7 team who is 1-2 on the road can be the favorite that they are at a 9-6 team that is 9-1 SU at home. Stanford is off a loss at USC while Oregon State is off a pair of losses to the two Washington schools. The Cardinal have won the past three meetings and have gotten the money four straight. Despite the defeats I like to believe that although Stanford is just  at 500 a win over Arizona has shown that they are better than that. Take STANFORD!

Michigan State at Illinois 7:00 ET

Spartans (+) over Illini- Michigan State was the No. 4 ranked squad during the preseason and are not even close to the Top-25 after having lost six of their first nine games including 1-3 in the Big Ten. Tom Izzo MSU coach said his team needs to play with more heart and passion as their play faltered. No.10 Illinois has continued on despite have their All-American forward Terrance Shannon Jr. suspended as rape chargers in Kansas are on going. Missing 22.7 PPG has got to hurt. Take MICHIGAN STATE!

Boston at Milwaukee 7:30 ET

Bucks (-) over Celtics- Boston is off a tough overtime win over Minnesota where the trailed by nine points late in the fourth before tying and winning with an OT cover. Milwaukee has hit a lull losing four-of-five (All-star break will give them rest) but for now they return home after a loss to Utah. These two met in Boston in November by three points after building a 21-point lead. Damian Lillard has been out but returns tonight to aid in the Bucks victory. Take MILWAUKEE!

Michigan at Maryland 7:00 ET

Wolverines (+) over Terrapins- Both of these clubs have had difficulty holding leads and turnovers have been the major problem. Michigan has now lost four in-a-row and had a 14-point half time lead against Penn State before a second half meltdown and getting outscored by 20 points. Maryland has had the same issue committing 15 turnover in the first half alone against Minnesota blowing a 7-point half time lead. Although the Terps are 8-1 SU at home they are just 3-6 ATS as hosts and 3-7 ATS overall in their last 10 games. Maryland won the last meeting but the Wolverines had won eight of the previous nine. Take MICHIGAN!

Oklahoma at Texas Christian 9:00 ET

Sooners (+) over Horned Frogs- How much do issues between teams carry over from one season to the next in college sports and I expect with the transfer portal being as active as it is those things probably don’t mean as much any more. What the hell is he taking about? It is about TCU beating Oklahoma twice last year and the way the best them including a 79-52 beat down at TCU. Now, a loss like that used to be bulletin board material but now...who knows. What I do know is that the Sooners are an improved team from the 2022-23 version and will crash the board the one Achilles Heel of the Horned Frogs. Take OKLAHOMA!

Boston College at Syracuse 9:00 ET

Eagles over Orange- Something has got to give here and a pair of opposing trends will clash. Syracuse is a perfect 7-0 SU at home and Boston College is a perfect 3-0 on the road. The Orange five-game winning streak came to an end as they got a dose of reality as Duke laid them out 86-66. The Eagles posted their first conference win at Georgia Tech and have won five of their last six games. These two former Big East combatants have a rich history with the Orange getting the best of it winning the  past 10 meetings going 9-1 ATS. The Eagles faced similar numbers against them before going to Georgia Tech and came out as a Money Game winner. Take BOSTON COLLEGE!

Connecticut at Xavier 8:30 ET

Musketeers (+) over Huskies- Yes, the defending champion Connecticut have won three straight and are looking to defeat the Musketeers after dropping both meetings last year. Xavier is just 7-7 but have had a week to prepare for the Huskies who are playing just their fourth road game and so far they are just 1-2 in true road games while the Musketeers are 6-3 SU at home. This one plays close. Take XAVIER!

Hawks over 76ers- The 76ers are just not the same without MVP Joel Embiid as they continue to struggle when he is not in the lineup. Philadelphia has lost three of four and actually have five guys that are hurting enough to be out of the lineup one day or another. Atlanta has been the worst point spread team that I can ever remember as they have lost six of eight SU and have won just five home games all season and are just 2-12 ATS as hosts and have covered just eight of 35 games played this season. These ATS numbers are disgraceful and the Hawks with fly tonight against a weakened foe. Take ATLANTA!

Tennessee at Mississippi State 7:00 ET

Bulldogs (+) over Volunteers- Some have questioned why a team with three losses already this season would be ranked No. 5 with so many other clubs have better records. It is easy to see why when you see who the Volunteers have lost to as their defeats came at the hand of Purdue and Kansas in Maui and North Carolina when returning to the mainland. Saturday, as a (Power Play winner) a double-digit favorite they crushed Mississippi. Tonight, they get ambushed by the Bulldogs who will take advantage of the boards as they are one of the leading rebounding team in the nation. Take MISSISSIPPI STATE

Kansas at Central Florida 7:00 ET

Knights (+) over Jayhawks- Talk about expectations, Kansas has won nine straight games and managed to fall a spot in the national rankings this week. The Jayhawks who defeated TCU 83-81 Saturday were dropped to No. 3 while No. 2 Houston was beaten by Megabucks winner Iowa State last night. UFC was routed in their first Big-12 encounter by Kansas State who also routed West Virginia last night so maybe they are not so bad. The Knights had their worst shooting night of the season and will be more comfortable a home where they are 7-2 SU. Take CENTRAL FLORIDA!

Toronto at LA Lakers 10:30 ET
Lakers (-) over Raptors- It takes a meeting against their inner city rival the LA Clippers to get the Lakers going as they ended a four-game losing streak with a win on Sunday. Although the Lakers are 3-10 SU since winning the NBA’s in-season tournament and they are 13-6 SU at home while Toronto is just 6-12 SU on the road. The Raptors picked up RJ Barrett from the Knicks and he responded with a career high 37 points against the Warriors Sunday, but he will return to form as an consistent offensive shooter. Take LA LAKERS!

Brigham Young at Baylor 9:00 ET

Cougars (+) over Bears- The odds-makers are giving BYU plenty of respect posting them as such a small underdog at No. 14 Baylor who is 12-2 and 1-0 in Big-12 action. Now, I’m not saying the the Cougars aren’t capable as they are ranked No. 18 and are also 12-2 but are 0-1 in Big-12 play falling at home to Cincinnati 71-60 as a 10-point favorite. The Bears have won and covered three straight including Saturday’s 75-70 home win over Oklahoma State. Take BYU

Kansas State at West Virginia 7:00 ET

Mountaineers (+) over Wildcats- My goodness, I understand that the home court advantage in college basketball can vary and be on the high side. But, there has got to be more accounting done because Kansas State (11-3) coming of a 25-point 77-52 win over UCF is as meager favorite as you can be against a 5-9 West Virginia team that lost by 44-points Saturday to Houston 89-55. So, with a point differential of 69 points the Wildcats face the only Big-12 school with a losing record. If K. State doesn’t win by 20 points the Mountaineers might steal it by one or two points. Take WEST VIRGINIA!

Houston at Iowa State 7:00 ET

Cyclones (+) over Cougars- The Cougars are ranked No. 2 in the nation and many have said that with nine of their 14 wins are by 30 or more points that they could easily be Number One over Purdue. For starters Houston entered the Big-12 Saturday with an 89-55 home win over West Virginia. The Cougars will be playing their 2nd conference game but it will be their first one on the road and jst their second of the season. Iowa is off a disappoint performance at Oklahoma where hey struggle from behind for 35 minutes, take the lead and then falter losing 71-63. But, it seems like every year I see T.J. Otzelberger coaching the Cyclones and I am reminded how fundamentally sound his coached teams are and they are in good hands. Take IOWA STATE!

Houston at Miami 7:30 ET

Rockets (+) over Heat- It was been two weeks since the Heat played at home on Christmas Day when they downed the Embiid-less 76ers. Winning at home is a must in the NBA as getting road wins are so difficult as the Heat and Houston can attest. Miami has a winning home record of 9-6 but are not so hot as home favorites going 5-10 ATS something the Rockets can make note of as they are  1-10 SU but a 7-6 ATS on the road. Once again the crew from South Beach has a number of key personnel sidelined because of nagging injuries including Jimmy Butler. The Rockets are off their Megabucks win Saturday night 122-118 over Milwaukee and this is the first of a six-game road trip. The young club from our space center are eager to prove they can win on the road. Take HOUSTON!

Michigan State at Northwestern 7:30 ET

Wildcats (+) over Spartans- Feel good here having used MSU as a Power Play winner over Penn State on Thursday while the Wildcats were getting pounded by No. 9 Illinois. Northwestern coach Chris Collins attested that his cats were so bad that there is too many issues to address and we should just flush it (the NY version is ‘fagetboutit), put it behind you. His club is looking for their third straight win over the Spartans something NW hasn’t done since 1962 (the NY Mets inaugural season). PS they lost 120 games, but the Wildcats used up one of their nine lives Thursday and tonight the visitor pays (no matter who it is) Take NORTHWESTERN!  

Milwaukee at Houston 8:00 ET

Rockets (+) over Bucks- Despite having won 25 of 35 games a 71% winning pace many say Milwaukee has been inconsistent. Tonight they will play their third game in four nights and it is most likely that their 15-19-1 ATS is why people think that they are underachievers. Houston whose 17-16 record has people speaking their praises because of the difference in expectations between the two clubs as the Rockets are 14-6 (70%) SU and ATS at home. There are just two NBA that keep opponents scoring under 110 PPG and Houston is one of them while the Bucks allow 119.4 PPG ranking No. 24 in the league. This will be the Rockets seventh straight home game and they are off a 27-point home loss to Minnesota. Look for them to atone for their paltry effort last time out. Take HOUSTON!

Utah at Arizona 8:00 ET

Utes (+) over Wildcats- Whoa Nellie...Thursday, I let it be know that Utah had a terrible record in Arizona and that the Sun Devils had beaten the Utes the last four games in Tempe (ASU Megabucks winner) and it gets even worse in Tucson where they have lost 11 straight times not winning there since 1986 when the New York Mets were World Series champions. Arizona destroyed Colorado Thursday night leading by 50 points at one time and finishing 97-50 dominating all phases of the game. Utah may have struggled in the desert but they are well coached and fundamentally sound. I expect a fierce competitive battle with the decision going down to the final buzzer. Take UTAH!   

Mississippi at Tennessee 6:00 ET

Volunteers (-) over Volunteers- Now, let us take a step back and take a close look at these two SEC rivals. No. 9 Tennessee is 10-3 after a 4-3 start and have won six straight while Mississippi is not ranked and have won all 13 of their games. Yes, the Rebels are just one of three NCAA school that are still undefeated. But, I do believe that if the odds makers put a 13-0 team as an 11-point underdog they will fall from the ranked of the undefeated. What makes this price even more outrageous is that this is a Southeast conference game and for the most part they play closer than non-conference game results. The Volunteers are 7-0 SU at home tho just 3-3-1 ATS and have won 8-of-9 SU against Ole Miss. What has my attention is Mississippi first year coach who has plenty of winning experience at Texas and Texas Tech. But, tougher game experience should prevail (at east the odds makers believe so) with the Vols having played Michigan State, North Carolina, Purdue, Illinois and Kansas.  Take TENNESSEE!

Iowa State at Oklahoma 6:00 ET

Cyclones (+) over Sooners- Once again we have a ranked team in No. 11 Oklahoma who is hosting a non-ranked team with a similar record and comparable stats. Iowa State may not be ranked in the Top-25 but their numbers say that they should be. The Cyclones (11-2) have won six straight after dropping back-to-back games in late November. This will the conference opener for both schools who split the series the past two seasons. Cyclones have an edge on offense scoring 87 PPG (13th) and they play better defense ranking No. 3 allowing 59.1 PPG. Take IOWA STATE!

Boston College at Georgia Tech 4:00 ET

Eagles (+) over Yellow Jackets- The first thing that caught my attention when looking at this match-up is that Georgia Tech has not play a home game in 28 days. They , played only five games only on neutral sites on their trips to Madison Square Garden in New York and on the island of Hawaii. Boston College is 2-0 on the rad having won at Citadel and Vanderbilt and they didn’t do well in any early season tournaments at neutral sites like Kansas City and Brooklyn. The Eagles are 0-2 in conference having lost to NC State and last time out to Wake Forest by identical 84-78 scores. The Engineers have won and covered the last five meetings and BC have won once in the last 11 season in Atlanta and that was by 2-points. With all this at hand the line should be much steeper. Take BOSTON COLLEGE!

TCU at Kansas 2:00 ET

Horned Frogs (+) over Jayhawks- It was about a year ago when Texas Christian made a statement and came into Lawrence and trounced No. 2 Kansas 83-20 and it was he worse loss in coach Bill Self’s 20-year career. That Megabucks winner ended a 16-game home winning streak and put doubt into the Jayhawks minds until the Big-12 championship which they have owned or shared the regular season title 21 straight years (really). Kansas may have championship form already defeating No. 6 Kentucky, No. 5 Tennessee and No. 4 Connecticut. Cyclones looking to prove they belong and get the money. Take TEXAS CHRISTIAN!   

Kentucky at Florida 12:30 ET

Gators (-) over Wildcats- This match-up has me dizzy and well not so much the match-up but the line, the line has the non-ranked Gators favored over No. 6 Kentucky who have one less loss but equal 10 wins with Florida. I understand that Florida is 6-0 at home and this is just the Wildcats second road game. What sticks with me is that over the years since their Championship years with Joakim Noah when Billy Donovan was coaching they have been one of the biggest money burners especially when favored at home. It has been seven years since Florida has won seven straight and a win here puts them in that class. Todd Golden (?) is at the helm and believe his team is ready to tame the Wildcats who have won 9-of-10 meetings going 8-2 ATS. Man-oh-man you see what I mean. Take FLORIDA!

Orlando at Denver 9:00 ET

Nuggets (-) over Magic- Denver is coming off a come-back win over Golden State last night as they rallied from 18 points down with 6:51 left to play to a non-cover  (-4) win 130-127. Orlando has made great strides this season and had a nine game winning streak before their most recent slide as they have dropped 10 of their last 15 games overall. Although Denver is 14-3 SU at home they have a target on their backs as defending NBA champs and are just 16-20 ATS on the year. Two-time MVP  Nikola Jokic has gone an unbelievable 39-for-44 from the field in the last four games and Jamal Murray has returned to the line-up full time. Take DENVER!

Oklahoma City at Brooklyn 7:30 ET

Nets (+) over Thunder- After defeating the Celtics to extend their winning streak to five games Oklahoma City was beaten by Atlanta the following night. The Thunder have lost two games in-a-row only twice this season and are 12-4 since their last two-game losing streak. Brooklyn have dropped their last five games the last four of which were on the road the second time that they have lost five-straight this season. After getting find $100,00 by the league for violating the NBA’s Player Participation Policy the Nets will be playing at full strength. Take BROOKLYN!

Atlanta at Indiana 7:00 ET

Hawks (+) over Pacers- The high flying Hawks have started to put it together winning their last two contests scoring 130 and 141 against Washington and Oklahoma City. Indiana has won five straight since Christmas without a loss including the last two victories over Milwaukee a club that had defeated only once in 15 meetings prior to the seasons start. The Pacers who lead the NBA in scoring are led by Tyrese Haliburton who had a triple-double last time out without a turnover. Indiana leads the NBA in scoring but Atlanta is a close third and are playing their best basketball of the season right now. The Hawks were 6-25 ATS overall before their last two wins. Take ATLANTA!

Connecticut at Butler 6:30 ET

Bulldogs (+) over Huskies- No. 4 Connecticut routed undermanned DePaul 85-56 in their Big East opener while the Bulldogs have lost their last two falling at St. John’s 86-70 on Tuesday. Butler coach Thad Matta the former Xavier and Ohio State coach read the riot act to his team after getting ejected late in the game against the Red Storm and the will be ready for the Huskies. It will be a tough assignment as UConn is 7-0 lifetime against the Bulldogs and no win was by less than 12 points. So what, Bulldogs meet the challenge. Take BUTLER!

Utah at Arizona State 9:30 ET

Sun Devils (+) over Utes- There must be something in the water or the ‘dry heat’ (they playing in doors and the heat is dry in Utah to) no it can’t be that. Maybe it is their proximity to Roswell NM, but Utah has lost their last three games in Tempe to the Sun Devils and it gets even worse in Tucson where they have lost 11 straight times not winning there since 1986 when the New York Mets were World Series champions. Utah has won seven straight and this is just their second true road game and they won their first at St. Mary’s. This is the Pac-12...take ARIZONA STATE!

Denver at Golden State 10:00 ET

Warriors (+) over Nuggets- It sorta like the sophomore jinx in baseball which basically says for first time winners (a rookie in baseball) the second time around is a bit more difficult. Denver won their first NBA championship last yer and are feeling the affects of their champagne hangover. Golden State is nothing close to what they were in recent championship years but, hey still have the greatest shooter in NBA history in Stephen Curry as well a possible runner-up in Klay Thompson (must admit he has not returned to form since his major injury). The point is the Nuggets are just 10-8 SU on the road and 7-11 ATS. Take GOLDEN STATE!

North Texas at Wichita State 9:00 ET

Mean Green (+) over Shockers- A couple many a few more years back Wichita State made a great run entering the post-season undefeated. As a matter of fact it was 2014 and the Shockers finished the season 34-0 with the Missouri Valley Championship and lost to Kentucky 78-76 in the third round ending 35-1. That started a four year conference championship run and they have been nothing special ever since even going 17-18 last season. Paul Mills is in his first season as head coach with the Shockers and he and his squad will get a lesson in ugly basketball and tough tenacious defense tonight by the current NIT champions. I saw them defeat UAB in the NIT finals at the Orleans in Las Vegas and it is unbelievable they way they can take a team out of their game out of their comfort zone. I really like this side tonight after all Wichita State is 7-0 at home and the odds makers give the visitor and even money shot to win outright. Take NORTH TEXAS STATE!

Penn State at Michigan State 7:30 ET

Spartans (-) over Nittany Lions- Michigan State was ranked No. 4 during preseason and like most Tm Izzo teams they started slowly losing three of their first six losing to Arizona, Wisconsin and Nebraska. At 3-3 they faced No. 6 Baylor in Detroit and routed the Bears 88-64 and they haven’t lost since. Penn State is off back-to-back wins over Le Moyne (I honestly have never heard of them) and Rider and playing teams of that low caliber does you no good. The real competition starts for Penn State tonight in their Big Ten opener. This is a great spot for Sparty who are already 0-2 in conference play. MSU has dominated the Lions over the years besting them 43 of 53 meetings overall and 25-2 over them in East Lansing. Take MICHIGAN STATE!  

Orlando at Sacramento 10:30 ET

Magic (+) over Kings- Gotta love the match-up of a pair of NBA teams that have emerged as a threat to win a playoff series against any possible opponent. Orlando is a stellar 22-11 ATS this season including 10-7 ATS on the road a place few prevail. Sacramento has improved in each of the past three season’s and have swept (2-0) the series the last two seasons. But, Orlando, has grown quickly since the arrival of Paolo Branchero who has pushed the Magic into a contender. Take ORLANDO!

NC State at Notre Dame 8:00 ET

Fighting Irish (+) over Wolfpack- These two met during the football season and I posted on of my early season Megabucks defeats (currently on an EIGHT game win streak in football) as I took the basketball school (NCS) against a football school (ND) and paid the price of such foolishness. This time around it is basketball meetings and I against will take the home team in what is not considered their best sport. Why would you do that one might ask...because the Fighting Irish lost to Citadel and after winning only three conference games last year they are looking for their second consecutive ACC victory. ND’s pace of play should frustrate the running Tigers and the home crowd will not help. Take NOTRE DAME!

Stanford at UCLA 9:00 ET

Cardinals (+) over Bruins- Stanford who is 6-6 have shown the capability of playing with anyone at any level as evidenced by their 100-82 rout of No. 4 Arizona. The Cardinal are trying to win their first road game of the season be it at a neutral site or a true road game as they are 0-4 SU and 0-1 in true road games. UCLA has won the last four meetings but Stanford got the money last time the clashed in February. The Bruins do not put the ball in the basket as much as the Cardinal but do the tougher defense. But, not good enough tonight. Take STANFORD!

Oklahoma City at Atlanta 7:30 ET

Hawks (+) over Thunder- We missed out on the Celtics and Thunder winner last night as Oklahoma City won their fifth straight game 127-123 over Boston the team with the best record in the NBA. But, I shall atone for it today with the winner here. Atlanta broke a streak of their own of four losses in-a-row Sunday by defeating lowly Washington 130-126. These two met in early November with the Thunder (+1.5) prevailing 126-117 (it was no surprise then as we did post the winner in that meeting) and this is the final meeting of the season. Last year they split the series and I see the same thing happening here. The Hawks have been putrid both SU and ATS especially at home where they are 1-12 ATS. But, they will play 13 of the next 18 at home and are looking to make up ground starting tonight. Thunder are playing back-to-back and the Hawks are flying high with confidence off the Sunday victory. The line seems a bit short and OKC looks like an easy play. Therefore...take ATLANTA!

Milwaukee at Indiana 7:10 ET

Pacers (+) over Bucks- When push comes to shove Milwaukee very well may have the biggest upside of all NBA contenders. Their firepower has them scoring 124.6 PPG second in the ‘Association.’ The number 1 scoring team happens to be hosting tonight match-up as the Pacers drop on 126.4 PPG. There will be no shortage of star power as the Bucks tout Antetokounmpo and Indiana sends out the fastest rising start in the NBA Tyrese Haliburton who is a triple-double machine. Look for a high scoring game with the home Pacers with the final edge. Take INDIANA!

Brooklyn at New Orleans 8:00 ET

Nets (+) over Pelicans- There two things that should happen at games end tonight is that Brooklyn will end a season long three game losing streak and the Pelicans will have their two-game win streak end. No question New Orleans has a big 3 in their line up with Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum who can carry a team as they have the past two games each scoring at least 20 points in wins over the Lakers and Jazz. The Nets who are 1-9 ATS in their last 10 games are 8-1 SU and ATS in the last nine meetings and rebound here. Take BROOKLYN!

Dallas at Utah 9:00 ET

Jazz (+) over Mavericks- The last time these two cagers met the Mavericks handed Utah a 50-point loss (147-97) the second worse loss in Jazz history and goes back to when they played in New Orleans where it made more sense to called them the Jazz. In the last meeting Utah was shorthanded and Luca Doncic dropped in 40 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists in just three quarters but since that defeat they have won seven of 10 and are healthy. Healthy or not Dallas most likely be without the services of Kyrie (Flat world) Irving who is resting and a regular basis. Take UTAH!

Orlando at Phoenix 8:00 ET

Magic (+) over Suns- Phoenix who procured Kevin Durant before the close of the 2023-23 season and then proceeded to acquire Bradley Beal to go along with Devin Booker, Eric Gordon and Grayson Allen have only had three games with the Big-3 in the line-up. Friday the Suns won for the first time with their trio of super starts in the lineup defeating lowly Charlotte 133-119 as 15.5 point favorites. We always hear stories of how teams with new players especially high profile stars take time to mesh and learn each other idiosyncrasies. So, now after one game together and have a good shooting night against a very weak club I am to believe that the Suns rises in the west...not so fast my friend. Phoenix had lost nine of 12 before their consecutive wins and they are .5-12 ATS at home. I really don’t have much to say about the Magic other than they are much better than most people realize as their No. 1 draft pick from a year ago Paolo Branchero all-around play is infectious. Take ORLANDO!

Brooklyn at Oklahoma City 7:05 ET

Nets (+) over Thunder- The Thunder continue to win and are on a three game streak right now and have won six-of-seven which brings them to a 70% winning percentage at 21-9 SU. OKC showed improvement he latter half of last season and the addition of 2nd year rookie (may not make sense but it is true) Chet Holmgren has make major contribution that Wembanyama can not match. Brooklyn reminds me of what the Thunder were last season they are young and hungry and give a full 48 minute effort. OKC is third in scoring while the Nets are strong off the boards ranking third. This one stays close. Take BROOKLYN!

Miami at Utah 5:00 ET

Jazz (+) over Heat- This looks to me like a mirror image of the Thursday’s game with the Heat being a small underdog to the Warriors and now it has folded over with them as a small favorite at Utah. The Jazz just finished a five-game road trip and won the middle three games before falling at New Orleans Thursday night. The Jazz should be a full strength health wise for the first time this season while Miami continues to play hurt and continues to win. Utah has been under-maned most of the season and yet have managed to post a winning record at home going 8-5 SU and more importantly 9-3 ATS. The Heat have won the last five meetings, but the Jazz got the money the last meeting and will get it done here. Take UTAH!

Creighton vs Marquette 2:00 ET

Golden Eagles (-) over Bluejays- One of these two top Big East squads will have two losses to start conference play after this contest is over. Marquette dropped their conference opener at Providence but responded with a win over Georgetown 81-51. I saw Marquette falling to Villanova who won’t be contending for the title. The Bluejays had way too many turnovers and I have my doubts as to how good they really are but they can handle this spot. Take CREIGHTON!

Oklahoma City at Denver 9:00 ET

Thunder (+) over Nuggets- My goodness this is a short price to lay with the defending NBA Champions at home. Denver has not been all that bad at home going 13-2 SU although just 8-7 ATS with one of their two outright losses coming at the hands of the Thunder. Oklahoma City has the youngest team in the league and don’t know that they are supposed to be intimated by the defending champs...they are not! The Thunder have won their last two and seven of their last nine and will get it done again tonight. Take OKLAHOMA CITY!

San Diego State at Gonzaga 9:00 ET

Aztecs (+) over Bulldogs- Each of these two programs have represented the west in the NCAA Final Four over the past three years with San Diego State falling this past April and Gonzaga in 2021 and 2017. These two programs have split four previous meetings and the Aztecs have won their last three with their two losses coming against BYU and Grand Canyon (much better than people realize). Gonzaga is the big name team coming from the west but San Diego State has won 20 games or more in 17 of 18 seasons and will keep this one close with their stellar defense. Take SAN DIEGO STATE!

Philadelphia at Houston 8:00 ET

Rockets (+) over 76ers- Philadelphia is just not anything close to the same team when playing without the NBA’s MVP Joel Embiid who is the league leading scorer. The 76ers were 0-4 SU without their big man until a 20-point win at Orlando and winning on the road which has been a weak spot for them in recent seasons. Houston is one of the youngest teams (and developing fast) in the NBA and excel at home where they are 12-4 SU and 11-4-1 ATS. Embiid is still out. Take HOUSTON!

Sacramento at Atlanta 7:30 ET

Hawks (+)over Kings- Atlanta may be the biggest underachiever in the NBA this season as they ave one of the worst home records in the league. The Hawks are a meager 4-8 SU at home but are an horrid 1-11 ATS as hosts despite having one of the top guards Trae young who averages 28.1 points and 11.3 assists. Sacramento can match the Hawk front court play as De’ Aaron Fox averages 30.2 and 6,1 assists. The Kings have won six of 10 while the black birds have lost three straight and won just three of their last 12 games. They are ranked No 3 on offense with 122.3 PPG while the Kings are NO. 22 on defense allowing 118 PPG. Take ATLANTA!

Miami at Golden State 10:00 ET

Heat (+) over Warriors- Even through their slow start had Miami had struggling but they have managed to win nine of 15 road games. Only three other teams in the NBA have won more on the road while Golden State who also is off to a weak start to the season has reeled off eight straight home wins. The Warriors may have won at home but they are a disappointing 6-9 ATS as hosts. The Heat still doesn’t know if Jimmy Butler will be able to play as he has missed the last three games and yet the line on this match-up is very low. It leads me to believe the Warriors will struggle again. Take MIAMI!

New York at Oklahoma City 8:00 ET

Knicks (+) over Thunder- OKC has three of the NBA’s youngest stars as their wait to next year mantra has turned into winning now. At 19-9 the Thunder have to be taken seriously being led by All-star Gilgeous Alexander, second year rookie Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams. New York is led by Jalen Brunson and although they have lost their center Mitchell and still are second in the NBA in rebounding while Oklahoma City is second to last. Knicks over win over Milwaukee adding the confidence needed to beat the league’s elite. Take NEW YORK!

Milwaukee at Brooklyn 7:30 ET

Nets (+) over Bucks- When reviewing the Bucks play to date my thoughts run to this club scoring points and not playing the tough defense needed to win during the playoffs. Milwaukee is second in the NBA in points scored with 124.5 per game but allow 119.1 and have surrendered 120 points or more 15 times this season as their interior presence has been soft allowing 53 points per game in the paint. They have gone ‘over’ the total in 20 of their 30 games. Brooklyn who is 11-4-1 ATS at home have dropped nine of 11 SU against the Bucks but have gone 3-1 ATS in the last four meetings and 5-of-6 have gone under. The Nets had dropped five straight until their two wins against Detroit and are 1-6 ATS in their last seven. They are a young club that will surprise the league in their play before the season’s end and they are eager to measure up against the Bucks. Take BROOKLYN!

Memphis at New Orleans 8:10 ET

Pelicans (+) over Grizzlies- Ja is back! Ja Morant who was suspended the first 25 games of the regular season has return with a splash as Memphis who was 6-19 in his absence have now won three straight upon his return. (After three games he might have already established he is the league’s MVP) The Grizzlies started their win streak at New Orleans a week ago when the Pelicans blew a 24-point lead having a fourth quarter collapse. The Crescent City will host this meeting once again with the line dropping from a minus-8.5 and now have a price of minus-4.5 a number they will cover handing the Grizzlies their first loss since Morant’s return. Take NEW ORLEANS!

Indiana at Houston 8:00 ET

Pacers (+) over Rockets- Indiana was the NBA’s highest scoring team as of two weeks ago but have hit a snag losing their last two and six of seven as they meet Houston for the first time this season. The Pacers made a run during the NBA in-season tournament and are seeking to regain their intensity after a disappoint loss to the Lakers in the final. The Rockets are an outstanding 12-2 SU and 11-2-1 ATS at home but have lost seven straight to the Pacers going 2-7 ATS. They have rebounded nicely with a pair of wins after having dropped three straight but just seem to struggle against this Hoosier state club. Take INDIANA!

Atlanta at Chicago 8:00 ET

Hawks (+) over Bulls- Atlanta’s Trae Young is on a record setting streak scoring 30 points or more with at least 10 assists in seven straight games although the Hawks were only 3-4 losing their last two. Chicago is 2-1 on their current five game home stand and this without All-star Zach Levine who remains sidelined with a foot injury. The high flying Hawks average 122.7 PPG which is No. 2 in NBA scoring while the Bulls offense struggles at 110 PPG ranking 27th. Take ATLANTA!