The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Memphis Grizzlies.

The 35-29 Atlanta Hawks are in Memphis to take on the 36-29 Grizzliez and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Grizzlies have lost four straight and will obviously be extremely focused in trying to end that streak of futility.

Atlanta comes in off a very satisfying 105-99 home win over the Raptors just last night and now has to travel cross country and play a non-conference contest. Can anyone say “letdown spot?”

The Grizzlies are coming off a humbling 122-109 home loss to the Nets, the worst team in the league: “I don’t know what to say,” said forward Zach Randolph afterwards.

Marc Gasol was a bright spot though with 20 points, five boards, five assits, a steal and a block. 

I’ll point out that Atlanta is 1-4 ATS in its last five against the Western Conference, while Memphis is 13-6 ATS in its last 19 when playing on one days rest.

Atlanta is gassed and I think comes out flat. No excuses for Memphis tonight, it’s a perfect set of situational factors working in its favor and I expect it to answer the call. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the New York Knicks (5:05 EST).

The 26-39 New York Knicks are in Detroit to take on the 32-33 Detroit Pistons and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

The Knicks are looking to rebound after a 104-93 loss to Milwaukee on Wednesday. It was their third loss in their last four gams. 

So while New York will clearly be “hungry” to get off the schneid with a victory, Detroit is poised for a predictable letdown here after its come from behind 106-101 home win over the Cavaliers on Thursday. 

So far these teams have split a pair of games this year, with the Knicks winning 105-102 at home on November 16th in the most recent.

New York averages 105.6 PPG and concedes 108.6. Carmelo Anthony averages 23.1 points and six boards per game. 

Detroit averages just 102.1 PPG and concedes 102.3. Tobias Harris leads the way with 16.3 points plus 5.2 boards per game. 

I’ll point out that New York is 2-1 ATS in its last three following a loss by ten points or more, while Detroit is just 3-6 ATS this season off an upset win as an underdog. 

With a game at Cleveland early next week, I think the home side lets the foot off the gas tonight. While I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can. Play on New York.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* 33-Club Play is Minnesota (1:00 EST).

The 22-11 Michigan Wolverines are taking on Minnesota in the Semi Finals of the Big Ten Tournament from the Verizon Center in the nation’s capital on Saturday morning and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Golden Gophers.

Minnesota got by Michigan State 63-58, while Michigan managed a second straight win in as many days in yesterday’s 74-70 OT victory over Purdue.

But if recent history is any precedence, then the Golden Gophers have to be loving their chances today, as when these teams met one other time earlier in the year, they’d come away with the 83-78 win at home.

The Wolverines average 74.6 PPG and concedes 65.6. Derrick Walton Jr. leads the way with 14.6 points and 4.5 assists per game.

Minnesota held the Spartans to just 32.8 percent shooting on Friday. Jordan Murphy led the way with 13 points and ten boards. He leads the team with 11.1 points and 8.8 rebounds per game. Minnesota averages 75.2 PPG and concedes 68.6.

I simply feel the three games in three days will be too much for the Wolverines to overcome and look for Minnesota to ride its smothering defensive play to another victory over Michigan this season. Play on the Golden Gophers.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* LEGEND is on Nevada (10:00 EST).

The 20-11 Fresno State Bulldodgs get ready to battle the 26-6 Nevada Wolf Pack from the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas in the semi-finals of the Mountain West Conference Tournament on Friday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Pack.

Fresno State advanced by beating New Mexico 65-60 in the quarters, while Nevada smashed Utah State 83-69 on Thursday. 

It’s difficult to beat any team three times in a single season. Even great teams have difficulty pulling that feat off against much lesser competition.

Fresno State is a very good team obviously. But I wouldn’t classify it as a “great” team. 

Nevada is the No. 1 seed in the tournament, but it comes into this one playing with the “double revenge factor” after inexplicably dropping both games to the Bulldogs during the regular season, accounting for half its conference losses this year.

Fresno State averages 74.3 and concedes 70.2. The Bulldogs hit 6.3 three point field goals per game, but shoot only 35.3 percent from range overall. Jaron Hopkins leads the nightly charge with 13.3 points and 5.5 boards per game.

Nevada averages 79.8 PPG and concedes 71. The Wolfpack average 9.2 three point field goals per contest, while hitting 38.6 percent from range. Marcus Marshall leads the way with 19.7 points and 3.6 assists per game.

The Wolfpack are dealing with an injury to Elijah Foster, but they’re a deep team and I think their offensive production will be just too much for the Bulldogs to keep up with today. I’m on Nevada.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* BIG-TEN PERFECT STORM is on Purdue (12:00 EST).

The Michigan Wolverines get ready to battle the Purdue Boilermakers in the quarterfinals of the Big Ten Tournament from the Verizon Center in Washington and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Boilermakers.

Purdue comes in fresh after earning a bye through the first two rounds. And now the Boilermakers will be looking to avenge a 12 points loss (82-70) to Michigan back on February 25th.

The Wolverines beat Illinois 75-55 yesterday. Interesting to note that Michigan was late for the 12 PM EST start due to taking a morning flight to Washington after a minor plane crash on Wednesday. 

Suffice it to say, this one sets up great for the Boilermakers in many respects. Purdue will have to keep its eyes on Derrick Walton Jr. who leads the team with 14.7 points and 4.5 assists per game. Michigan ranks second in the Big Ten in three point percentage with a 38.6 rate, but that comes at a cost as it struggles in defending from range (allowing 37.9 percent) and in rebounding (-1.6 margin).

Purdue is led by Caleb Swanigan, who averages 18.7 points and 12.6 boards per game. He also shot 54 percent form the floor and 44.9 percent from behind the arc this season. 

The Boilermakers lead the Big Ten in three-point shooting and also rank first in field goal percentage (also first in overall offense with 80.5 PPG and first in rebounding margin, +7.1).

I’ll point out that the underdog is just 1-4 ATS the last five in this series, while Pursude is a perfect 4-0 ATS in its last four neutral court affairs.

You can’t teach “size,” and in this department the Boilermakres have a big advantage in 7-2 center Issac Haas. Combined with Swanigan and all of the above situational and trend based factors, I think the correct call is on Purdue.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Hawaii (11:30 EST).

The 14-15 Hawaii Rainbow Warriors are set to battle the 10-17 Long Beach State 49ers in the quarterfinals of this year’s Big West Tournament. Note that this is a rematch of last year’s title game which was won by Hawaii 64-60.

These teams closed their respective regular season’s against each other, with LBSU winning by nine points just last week. They did split the season series though, with the Warriors winning the first one.

But if recent history is any precedence, then Hawaii has to be loving its chances today as this is the third consecutive year the teams have met in the Big West tourney, with the Warriors winning both. Keep your eyes on the Bows’ Noah Allen, who averages 15.5 points. 

Temidayo Yussuf had 23 points in the 49ers win over Hawaii last Saturday, but I’ll point out that Long Beach State has struggled in this spot for bettors this year, going just 4-9 ATS against clubs with winning records and only 7-8 ATS when playing the role of favorite, while Hawaii has excelled by going a perfect 2-0 ATS this season after allowing 80 points or more.

I’m expecting this one to come down to the wire. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* BIG-EAST PERFECT STORM is on Creighton (9:30 EST).

The 23-8 Creighton Bluejays are set to battle the 20-11 Providence Friars and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Bluejays. 

The Bluejays dropped three of their last four, iincluding a 91-83 road setback to Marquette on Saturday. 

Providence closed with six straight wins, including an 86-75 road victory over St. John’s in its finale. 

These teams split a pair of meetings this year, with Providence scoring the narrow 68-66 road win in the latest on February 22nd. 

The Bluejays lost point guard Maurice Watson Jr. in late January and then went 6-7 down the stretch. The Conference tournament is a chance for a new start though, note that Creighton did finish by averaging 83.5 PPG and conceding 72.9. Marcus Foster leads the team with 18.5 PPG. The team would go on to connnecton on a blistering 51.2 percent from the floor this year and was 40.3 percent from range. 

Providence averages 70.6 PPG and concedes 66.5. Rodney Bullock led the team with 16.1 points and 6.4 boards per game. The Friars are now in the mix for a tournament invite after the late season surge, but I think they’ll struggle to match pace with this elite Creighton offense.

I’ll point out as well that the Bluejays are 5-2 ATS off a loss against a conference rival this season and 15-7 ATS as a favorite, while Providence is just 1-2 ATS in its last three after scoring 86 points or more.

I’m banking on Creighton’s offense to be the difference maker tonight, play on the Bluejays.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SIDE OF THE MONTH is on the Oklahoma City Thunder (8:00 EST).

The 50-13 San Antonio Spurs are in Oklahoma City to take on the 35-29 Thunder and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

I think the Spurs are poised for a letdown here, they’ve won nine in a row, including seven straight since the All Star break. Most recently San Antonio would take care of the Kings 114-104 at home on Wednesday.

Conversely, the Thunder will be desperate tonight, they’ve lost four straight after falling 126-121 at home to the Trailblazers on Tuesday. 

OKC also plays with revenge after falling 108-94 in the first meeting between the teams in San Antonio on January 31st.

San Antonio averages 106.6 PPG and concedes 98.4. Kawhi Leonard leads the nightly charge with 26.3 points, six boards and 1.89 steals per game. 

OKC averages 106.3 PPG and concedes 106.5. Russell Westbrook averages 32.1 points, 10.5 boards and ten assists per game. 

I’ll point out though that the Spurs are just 5-9 ATS in their last 14 on the road and only 5-8 ATS in their last 13 against poor defensive teams which allow 106 points per game, while OKC is 21-10 ATS at home this year, 14-9 ATS in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent 9-6 ATS after allowing 115 points or more and 8-4 ATS after scoring 115 points or more.

With a matchup at home against Golden State on Saturday night, I think the visitors finally have a small mental lapse this evening. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Temple (3:30 EST).

The 14-17 East Carolina Pirates are getting ready to battle the 16-15 Temple Owls and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Owls.

The Pirates were 6-12 in league play, while Temple went 7-11. 

Both teams struggled down the stretch of the regular season, losing three of their final five. However, Temple did manage to “right the ship” after winning its final two of the regular season.

These teams split a pair of games this year with both winning comfortably on its home floor. 

I’ll point out though that ECU is just 3-6 ATS in its last nine neutral court games, while Temple is 10-6 ATS in all neutral court games the last two seasons. 

The Owls are clearly the “hotter” of these two evenly matched teams at the moment, coming into the conference tournament on two straight victories. I expect that momentum to get carried over here. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* C-USA PERFECT STORM is on Florida Atlantic (9:00 EST).

The 10-19 FAU Owls get ready to battle the 17-14 Marshall Thundering Herd on Wednesday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Owls.

The Owls play with revenge after falling to Marshall by 17 earlier in the season. 

FAU though has performed well in this spot for bettors of late, going 3-1 ATS in its last four as an udnerdog and 12-8 ATS in its last 20 after allowing 80 points or more.

Marshall on the other hand has not done well in this position, going 0-3 ATS in its last three conference tournament games (in fact it’s 0-9 ATS in its last nine games played in the month of March) and just 1-2 ATS in its last three when playing on a neutral court.

I think the Owls can match pace and keep this one a lot closer than what Las Vegas is leading us to believe. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* MWC PERFECT STORM is on San Jose State (2:00 EST).

The 14-15 San Jose State Spartans get ready to battle the 14-15 Utah State Aggies on Wednesday afternoon in the Mountain West Conference Tournament from Las Vegas and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Spartans.

SJSU backed its way into the tournament by losing four straight, including a 74-62 defeat at Wyoming on Saturday. Utah State also closed the season with a loss, dropping a 66-59 decision to UNLV on the road on Saturday. 

To say this is a “revenge” game for San Jose State would be a bit of an understatement, as the Aggies have won the last ten straight in the series, including an 81-75 road victory in the only matchup this year back on February 22nd.

SJSU averages 72.2 PPG and allows 74.5. Brandon Clarke leads the nightly charge with 17.9 points and 8.7 rebounds per contest. 

Utah State averages just 71.8 PPG and concedes 70.6. Jalen Moore leads all scorers with 16.6 PPG. 

I’ll point out though that the Spartans are 2-1 ATS this season after three or more consecutive losses, while Utah State is already 1-3 ATS in its last four after scoring 60 points or less.

I think the Spartans have the firepower to take this one down to the final moments. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* ACC PERFECT STORM is on Syracuse (12:00 EST)

The 20-10 Miami Florida Hurricanes are getting ready to battle the 18-13 Syracuse Orange and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors Syracuse.

These teams played at the start of the year and the Orange would notch the 70-55 home win. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting a repeat performance here. 

Miami comes in with zero momentum after dropping its final two games of the year. Davon Reed leads the team with 15.3 PPG, while Ja’Quan Newton chips in 13.9. 

The Hurricanes average 72 PPG and concede just 63.4.

The Orange average 76.4 PPG and concede 70.7. Andrew White III scored 40 points in his teams 90-61 regular season finale over Georgia Tech. 

I’ll point out thought that Miami Florida is just 1-3 ATS in its last four in trying to revenge a road loss in which it scored 56 points or less, while Syracuse is 2-1 ATS in its last three after scoring 88 points or more.

I think the Orange carry over the momentum from their push to close the regular season and find a way to get the job done at the end of the night. Play on Syracuse.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SUPER SHOCKER is on the LA Lakers (8:35 EST).

the 19-44 LA Lakers are in Dallas to take on the surging 26-36 Dallas Mavericks and while I won’t be so bold as to predict an outright upset, I do think that the hungry visitors can keep this one a lot more competitive than what Las Vegas is leading us to believe. 

LA comes in off seven straight losses, most recently a 105-97 setback to the Pelicans on Sunday. The Lakers are in full rebuilding mode right now, but clearly the team is going to be hungry to get off the schneid.

Conversely, the suddenly over-achieving Mavericks look poised for a letdown here in my opinion after winning their second straight and fourth in their last five with a 104-89 home victory over OKC on Sunday. 

And to say this is a “revenge” game would be a bit of an understatement I think as Dallas has won 13 straight in the series, including a 122-73 home victory on January 22nd. 

LA averages 103.9 PPG and concedes 110.8. Julius Randle, D’Angelo Russell, Jordan Clarkson and Nick Young all average double figures.

The Mavs are still last in the league in scoring with an average of just 97.9 PPG. Dallas is tough defensively in conceding only 99.7. Harrison Barnes leads the team with 20.1 points and 5.1 boards per night. 

I’ll point out though that LA is 3-1 ATS in its last four in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent, while Dallas is 1-2 ATS in its last three after allowing 90 points or less.

After big wins over Memphis and Oklahoma City, the Mavs now face the dregs of the league in the Lakers, followed by the Nets and then Suns. All at home. It’s simply not too hard to imagine the home side finally coming in a tiny bit complacent here as it looks past its lowly opponent to this very favorable/vanilla part of its schedule.

I’m grabbing the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* ACC ROUND 1 SIDE OF THE YEAR is on Boston College (2:30 EST).

The 18-12 Wake Forest Demon Deacons are getting ready to take on the 9-22 Boston College Eagles in the first round of the 2017 ACC Tournament from the Barclays Center in New York and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the underdog.

This is a “double revenge” scenario for BC, which lost 79-66 to Wake Forest in the first matchup this year and 85-80 at home in the second contest.

Beating a team three times in one year is tough even for really great teams and Wake Forest is decent, but I think it’s safe to say that not many would classify the Demon Deacons as “great.”

Wake would actually notch a few quality wins down the stretch, beating Louisville 88-81 and Virginia Tech 89-84. Note that the Demon Deacons average 82.1 PPG and conceded 77.2.

BC averages 72.3 PPG and concedes 77.9. The Eagles closed out a miserable season by losing 14 straight. One bright spot was Jerome Robinson, who averaged a team-high 18.7 PPG. 

I’ll point out though that Wake is just 2-10 ATS in its last 12 neutral site games and only 1-5 ATS in its last six following an ATS loss, while BC is 2-1 ATS in its last three after a three games or more winless streak.

Boston College has a decent offense, putting up 80 points against the Demon Deacons in the last matchup. I think Robinson and company will keep this one competitive once again, grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the LA Clippers (10:35 EST).

The 40-22 Boston Celtics are in LA to take on the 37-25 Clippers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Boston comes in off a deflating 109-106 loss at Phoenix on Sunday, while the Clippers come in off a big victory over the Bulls.

Suffice it to say, I think the C’s have a predictable letdown here in the second game of the back-to-back. 

Boston averages 108 PPG and got 35 points from Isaiah Thomas yesterday afternoon, but it wasn’t enough as the defense looked horrible. 

The Clippers had lost four games after the All-Star break, but Jamal Crawford would score 28 points and LA would net the 109-100 victory over Chicago: “He’s going to always break out,” LA coach Doc Rivers said of Crawford. “I always tell him to give yourself a shooter’s chance. If you don’t shoot it, you have no chance of breaking out of it.”

The Clippers average 107.8 PPG and concede 104.9.

I’ll point out that Boston is just 1-6 ATS in its last seven against the Pacific, while LA is 9-3 ATS in its last 12 when playing on one days rest.

I think the Clippers come in focused on the task at hand and take advantage of this favorable matchup. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Charlotte Hornets (8:05 EST).

The 31-30 Indiana Pacers are in Charlotte to take on the 27-35 Hornets and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

Indiana comes in off an extremely satisfying 97-96 win in Atlanta just last night. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting a predictable letdown here.

Charlotte enters off a much needed 112-102 road win over Denver on Saturday. These teams have split a pair of game this year, each winning on its home floor. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting the Hornets to build off their latest victory and to keep this trend alive.

This is the finale of a five-game road trip for Indiana as well, so it’s definitely not too hard to imagine Indiana getting caught “looking ahead” to its upcoming home stretch. And note, despite the victory, Indiana has lost eight of its last ten. 

Indiana averages 105.3 PPG and concedes 106.2.

Charlotte averages 104.9 PPG and concedes 104.6. The Hornets would go on to shoot 16 of 27 from range in the win over Denver, Kemba Walker led all scorers with 27 points. 

The Hornets are still alive in the playoff race, sitting three games back of eighth spot. Note that they’re 16-13 at home this year.

And I’ll point out that Indiana is just 12-17 ATS on the road this season, while Charlotte is 3-1 ATS this year after a win by ten points or more. 

Charlotte is 0-8 ATS in its last eight at home, but I think that lop-sided trend ends tonight. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SIDE OF THE WEEK is on Northern Illinois (7:00 EST).

The 15-16 Northern Illinois Huskies are at Eastern Michigan to take on the 15-16 Eagles and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

These teams are pretty evenly matched as they head into the first round of the MAC Tournament. Northern Illinois stumbled down the stretch, losing three straight to close the year, including an 87-82 setback at Ball State on Friday, while EMU also suffered a loss in its finale, falling 60-56 at home to Toldedo on Friday. Note that these teams split a pair of games this year, each winning on its home floor.

Eugene German was a bright spot for NIU in the loss to Ball State, finishing with 17 points. Note that the Huskies average 72.3 PPG and concede 70.6. 

EMU averages 78.5 PPG and concedes 72.9. The Eagles shot just 37.7 percent from the floor in the loss on Friday though and were only 4 of 18 from range. 

I’ll point out that Northern Illinois is 7-2 ATS in its last nine after three or more consecutive SU losses and 8-6 ATS on the road, while Eastern Michigan is just 4-7 ATS at home and just 2-10 ATS in its last 12 after scoring 60 points or less.

Both teams have struggled down the stretch, but the conference tournament gives each an opportunity to turn over a new leaf. I’m expecting a battle down to the wire and while I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can. Play on Northern Illinois.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* BLOWOUT SUPER SIDE is on Wisconsin (6:00 EST).

The 23-7 Minnesota Golden Gophers are in Wisconsin to take on the 22-8 Badgers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Minnesota is rolling no doubt, it’s won eight straight, most recently an 88-73 home victory over Nebraska.

The Badgers though will be looking to atone for their shocking 59-57 loss to Iowa on Thursday.

Note that the Badgers beat the Golden Gophers 78-76 in OT earlier in the season, getting the straight-up victory, but unable to cover against the spread. 

Minnesota averages 76.5 PPG and concedes 69.1. Nate Mason had 25 points in the win over Nebraska. 

Bronson Koenig was a lone bright spot in the seback to Iowa for Wisconsin, he’d finish with 19 points. Koenig has now reached 17 points or more in three straight games. 

Wisconsin though has lost three straight and five of its last six to fall to 11-6 in league play. Note that the Badgers average 72.6 PPG and concede 62. 

It’s Senior Night in Wisconsin and the place is going to be rocking. The Badgers have a chance to finish off the season strong with a big win in front of the home town crowd over a tough opponent and that’s exactly what I’m expecting. I think Wisconsin’s tough defensive play turns out to be the difference. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Portland Trailblazers (10:05 EST).

The 10-49 Brooklyn Nets are in Portland to take on the 25-35 Trailblazers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

When these teams met on November 20th, Portland came away with the 129-109 victory. Suffice it to say, I expect a similar final outcome here as well.

Brooklyn was smashed in Utah just last night and I think will come into this one “gassed.” 

Conversely, the Blazers are finally coming off a big win and will be looking to snowball that momentum after beating the Thunder 114-109 at home. Portland would shoot 49.4 percent from the floor and go 10 of 25 from range. 

But more impressievly, Portland would hold OKC to just 39.5 percent shooting, while outrebounding it by five. Damian Lillard had 33 points and five assists. 

I’ll point out that Brooklyn is just 3-9 ATS in its last 12 against the Western Conference, while Portland is 5-2 ATS the last seven in this series.

Portland can ill afford to lets games like these slip through its fingers as it continues its hunt for a playoff spot. I’m expecting a blowout from start to finish, lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Minnsota Timberwolves (9:05 EST).

The 25-36 Minnesota Timberwolves are in San Antonio to take on the 46-13 Spurs and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

The Wolves come in playing their best basketball of the season, having won two straight and four of their last five after destroying Utah 107-80 on the road on Wednesday. 

The Spurs won their sixth straight last night, needing OT in the 101-98 victory in New Orleans. Suffice it to say, i think the home side is going to be “gassed” tonight.

To say this is a “revenge” game would be a bit of an understatement as well as the Spurs have won 11 straight in the series, including a 122-114 victory at home on January 17th in the most recent.

In Minnesota’s most recent win, it would shoot 50 percent and hit eight 16 from range. The Wolves would also hold the Jazz to just 38.9 perecent from the floor and only four of 19 from behind the arc. Karl-Anthony Towns led the way with 21 points and 15 boards.

It was a “sloppy” win for the Spurs last night, who would miss 10 of 25 free throw attempts.

I’ll point out that the Wolves are 14-9 ATS this year against good offensive teams which average 106 PPG, while San Antonio is just 1-3 ATS in its last four against teams with losing records.

I think the stage is set for the outright upset, but in the end, I’ll recommend grabbing the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* BAIL-OUT BLOWOUT is on Colorado State (8:00 EST).

The 21-9 Colorado State Rams are in Nevada to take on the 24-6 Wolfpack and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

This is a big game, as both teams are 13-4 and the winner will be crowned the Mountain West regular season champ. Both teams are likely to be included in the NCAA tournament, but that’s not 100% guaranteed for the loser. 

The Rams come in having won seven in a row, while Nevada has won five in a row. 

The revenge factor does not come into play here, as this is the first time the teams have faced each other this season.

Colorado State comes in off a dramatic win over Wyoming, as Prentiss Nixon hit a three pointer with six seconds left to lift the Rams to victory. Colorado State shot 51 percent from the floor and only committed six turnovers, while forcing 11. 

Nevada handled SJSU in its latest action, cruising to the 82-67 victory. Marcus Marshall had 20 points. 

I’ll point out that Colorado State is 10-1 ATS on the road this year and a perfect 2-0 ATS as a road dog in the 6.5 to nine points range, while Nevada is just 5-7 ATS after scoring 80 points or more this season.

I like the Rams to at the very least, keep this one competitive until the final moments. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* WCC TOURNEY RND 1 GAME OF THE YEAR is on San Francisco (6:30 EST).

The 20-11 San Francisco Dons are ready to battle the 16-15 Santa Clara Broncos as the No. four/five seeds. 

Both teams finished 10-8 in league play and each handed the other a loss away from home.

The Dons looked great in non-conference play, picking up quailty wins over teams like Utah, but would then open conference action by losing four of their first five. San Francisco responded though by winning seven of their next eight, before then dropping three of its final five. 

The Dons come in with some momentum though after handling Pepperdine 75-65 on the road in their final regular season contest.

Keep your eyes on Ronny Boyce, who leads San Francisco with 12.8 PPG. Also note, I think it’s important to point out that the Dons make 9.3 shots from range per game, which is second in the conference and 33rd in the nation.

This year has already been a success for the Broncos, who have won five more games than they did a season ago and clinched a winning league record after going 7-11 last year. 

Santa Clara though lost two of three to end the season, including a deflating 14 point setback at Saint Mary’s in the regular season finale. The Broncos lead the conference in 3-pointers made with 9.6 per contest, but note that they’re ninth overall in scoring with just 66.5 PPG. 

I’ll point out that San Francisco is 5-1 ATS in its last six when playing on five or six days rest, while Santa Clara is just 1-2 ATS in its last three in the same position and already 1-4 ATS in all tournament games this season.

I think the Dons are the better all around team and I have a hard time seeing the Broncos matching pace down the stretch. Play on San Francisco.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Detroit Pistons (6:05 EST).

The 29-32 Detroit Pistons are at Philadelphia to take on the 23-38 76ers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

Detroit is looking to hold onto its playoff spot, it comes into this one having lost two of its last three, most recently a humbling 109-86 setback in New Orleans on Wednesday. 

The 76ers are poised for a letdown here in my opinion after they broke a three-game slide with a 105-102 home win over New York just last night. 

Detroit ranks 26th in scoring at 101.5 PPG. It makes up for it on the defensive side, ranked sixth overall in conceding 102.1 PPG. Tobias Harris leads the nightly charge with 16.2 points and five boards per game.

Philadelphia averages just 101.7 PPG, but concedes 107.4. The team is dealing with several injuries and I think it will struggle to keep up with this focused Pistons side.

I’ll point out that Detroit is 6-2 ATS this year when playing with two days rest and 11-7 ATS after a loss by ten points or more, while Philadelphia is just 1-2 ATS in its last three after scoring 105 points or more.

The 76ers are going to be gassed tonight after the victory over the Knicks on Friday, while the Pistons come in completely rested. I’m laying the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* 33-Club Play is on Rutgers (12:00 EST).

The 18-12 Illinois Fighting Illini are at Rutgers to take on the 13-17 Scarlet Knights and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Knights have lost six straight, but they’re out to play the role of spoiler this afternoon, as despite coming into this one on a four-game win streak, the Illini still find themselves on the big dance bubble. 

To say this is a revenge game would be a bit of an understatement too, as Illinois has won all four meetings against Rutgers since both became a part of the Big Ten. 

Even with a win today though, Illinois is guaranteed nothing as far as the NCAA Tournament. Take note that the selection committee didn’t put one Big Ten team in their debut top 16 rankings earlier in the month, so perhaps only running the conference tournament table would ensure its inclusion.

The Fighting Illini have been hot, but it’s not too hard to imagine the team finally getting caught looking ahead to what could be and past their lowly opponent this afternoon. 

Despite finishing with the last seed in the confernce tournament, the Scarlet Knights will be playing for pride today in the final home game of the year. One player to keep your eyes on is sophomore guard Corey Sanders who averages 12.9 points and 3.3 assists per game. 

I’ll point out that Illinois is just 1-3 ATS in its last four after a three game or more unbeaten streak, while Rutgers is 2-1 ATS in its last three in trying to revenge a road loss against an opponent if scoring less than 67 points in that contest.

I think the home side at the very least takes this one down to the wire and sneaks in through the back door down the stretch. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* NON CONFERENCE SIDE OF THE MONTH is on the Utah Jazz (9:05 EST).

The 10-49 Brooklyn Nets are in Utah to take on the 37-24 Jazz and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Nets are poised for an immediate return to mediocrity after they broke a 16-game road losing streak with a 109-100 effort over the Kings on Wednesday. 

The Jazz have lost two straight and will be out to atone for a brutal 107-80 home loss to the Wolves on Wednesday. 

If recent history is any precedence though, then Utah has to be liking its chances for a bounce back performance as it’s taken five straight in the series, including a 101-89 road win in the first matchup this year back on January 2nd.

Brooklyn averages 105.4 PPG, which lands them 14th overall. The Nets though are last in the NBA in scoring defense in conceding a whopping 114.2 PPG. Brook Lopez has been a standout this year, leading with 20.5 PPG.

Utah averages 100.2 PPG, but concedes just 96 per contest. George Hill is one of four players averaging double figures, with 17.7 points per contest.

I’ll point out that the Nets are just 3-12-1 ATS in their last 16 on one days rest, while the Jazz are 5-1 ATS in their last six following a double-digit loss at home. 

Brooklyn is ripe for a letdown after the rare win, while the hungry Jazz are desperate to wash the stink of back-to-back pathetic efforts out of their mouths. Lay the points with confidence.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* EASTERN CONFERENCE REVENGE PLAY OF THE MONTH is on the Toronto Raptors (7:05 EST).

The 36-25 Toronto Raptors are in Washington to take on the 36-23 Wizards and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

The Wizards pulled away for a win at home and then followed that with a victory on the road over these very Raptors the next night. I think this sets up as a natural letdown spot for Washington.

Conversely, the Raptors are hungry and searching for answers after losing point guard Kyle Lowry to injury for an undetermined amount of time. Toronto though can take confidence in knowing that when it last played in the nation’s capital, it would come away with the 113-103 victory on November 2nd.

DeMar DeRozan is healthy and averaging 27.8 PPG and he’s now joined with newcomers Serge Ibaka and PJ Tucker. 

Toronto averages 108 PPG and concedes 104.

Washington averages 107.9 PPG and concedes 105.4. 

I’ll point out that Toronto is 14-7 ATS this year against teams with winning records, while Washington is just 5-6 ATS in its last 11 overall and only 1-2 ATS in the second game of a back to back after scoring 105 points or more in the first game.

I think this one comes down to the wire and will therefore be grabbing the points. Play on Toronto.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SITUATIONAL STUNNER is on Brown (7:00 EST).

This looks like a good spot to pull the trigger on the lowly Brown Bears.

Neither of these teams will be playing in any postseason tournaments. Columbia comes to town off a win, but had lost five in a row previous to that.

Columbia beat Brown 83-78 at home back on February 4th, so this does indeed set up as a “revenge” scenario.

Brown is currently tied for last in the Ivy with Cornell and Dartmouth, so a win on senior night would go a long way in making sure it can claw its way out of the basement.

Besides, the Lions are also going to be get caught “looking ahead” to their season finale tomorrow at Yale.

It’s a perfect set of situational factors to take advantage of. Also note that Columbia is just 1-3 ATS this year off a win against a conference rival, while Brown is a perfect 2-0 ATS after scoring 60 points or less and 6-4 ATS when playing with five or six days rest.

I’m jumping on the revenge minded home side on Senior Night, play on Brown.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on Iowa (9:00 EST).

The 16-13 Iowa Hawkeyes are in Wisconsin to take on the 22-7 Badgers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

Iowa comes to town off a great 83-69 road win over Maryland, while Wisconsin enters off a deflating 84-74 loss at Michigan State.

The Hawkeyes are looking to roll towards the finish line, they’ve now won two straight. The Hawkeyes would shoot 48.4 percent from the floor in the win over the Terps and a monster 61.6 percent from range. They also looked sharp defensively, holding Maryland to 44.8 percent from the floor and just 32.4 percent from beyond the arc. 

Iowa averages 80.6 PPG overall, while conceding 77.7. Peter Jok leads the nightly charge with 20.6 PPG.

Wisconsin averages just 73.1 PPG, but concedes just 62.1. Nigel Hayes led all scorers with 22 in the loss to MSU.

I’ll point out though that the road team is 5-1 ATS the last six in this series and the dog is 8-2 ATS the last ten in this series. 

The Badgers are the team struggling right now, they’ve given up 82 and 84 points over their last two games. Iowa’s offense is firing on all cylinders, I’m going to grab the points and expect a nail-biter.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Golden State Warriors (8:00 EST).

The 50-10 Golden State Warriors are in Chicago to take on the 30-30 Bulls and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

The Warriors dropped the second game of a back-to-back in a 112-108 setback at Washington on Tuesday, while Chicago had its four game win streak snapped with a 125-107 home loss to Denver on Tuesday. 

But if recent history is any precedence, then the Warriors have to be loving their chances today as they’ve won three straight in this series, including 123-92 at home in the first matchup back on February 8th. 

Kevin Durant is out for the Warriors, but I say who cares. At least for this game anyways. I like the Warriors to rally together today and use Durant’s injury as fuel to compete for the rest of the regular season. 

Note that Golden State boasts the No. 1 offense with 118.1 PPG, while ranked 14th on the defensive end in conceding 105.5.

The Bulls average just 102.9 PPG, while ranked seventh overall in conceding 103.4 per night. Chicago is led by Jimmy Butler, with 24 points and 6.3 boards per game. 

I think it’s important to point out that Chicago is last in the league with 6.7 three pointers per game and last overall by shooting 32.5 percent from range.

Also note that Golden State is 4-1 ATS in its last five following a straight up loss, while Chicago is just 1-4 ATS in its last five against the Western Conference.

I have a hard time seeing the Bulls keeping pace with what should be a highly motivated Stephen Curry and company. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* BIG-EAST PERFECT STORM is on Xavier (9:00 EST).

The 17-11 Marquette Eagles are at Xavier to take on the 18-11 Musketeers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Marquette enters off a 73-69 loss to Providence, while the Musketeers come in off an 88-79 loss to Butler.

This is a big game for both teams, but note that this sets up as a revenge scenario for the home side after it was embarrassed 83-61 at Marquette earlier in the year.

The Golden Eagles let a late lead slip away in the loss to Providence last weekend. Marquette averages 82 PPG and concedes 74.1.

The Musketeers average 74.7 PPG and concede 71.4. One player to keep your eyes on today and who I think will be a difference maker in tonight’s contest is Trevon Blulett, who sat out in the first game against the Golden Eagles. Blulett had 21 points in the loss to the Bulldogs on Saturday. 

Xavier is still on the bubble, likely needing to win its final two games to get invited to the Big Dance. 

I’ll point out that Marquette is just 1-4 ATS in its last five against teams with winning records, while take note that the favorite is 4-1 ATS in the last five in this series overall. 

After scoring 79 points against Butlers tough defense, I’m expecting the Musketeers to carry that momentum over here. Play on Xavier.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* ACC PERFECT STORM is on Boston College (8:00 EST).

The 9-20 Boston College Eagles are at Notre Dame to take on the 22-7 Fighting Irish and while I won’t be so bold as to predict an outright upset, I do definitely think that the visitors can catch the home side a bit complacent and expect them to keep this one a lot closer than what Las Vegas is leading us to believe.

The Eagles come into this one with nothing to lose, except perhaps just one more game. BC enters on a 12 game losing streak and is just 2-14 in ACC action.

The Irish are rolling towards the tournament having won five in a row. Notre Dame is now 11-5 in league play this year. 

Not surprisingly, this is a “revenge” game for the visitors after they fell in a competitive 84-76 fight earlier in the season.

The Eagles average 72.7 PPG, while conceding 77.7. Two players average in double figures in Jerome Robinson (19.3) and Ky Bowman (14.5).

Notre Dame averages 78.9 PPG and concedes 69.3. Four players average in double figures for the Irish, led by Bonzie Colson with 16.8 PPG. 

I’ll point out though that BC is 10-4 ATS in its last 14 against teams with a winning percentage above .600 and 5-2 ATS in the last seven in this series overall, while Notre Dame is 0-2 ATS this year against teams with losing records.

Boston College has been outscored by just 12.0 PPG over its last 12 games. The Irish have a much more important game at Louisville on the weekend and I think will be caught looking ahead to that one. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* BIG-TEN PERFECT STORM is on Northwestern (7:00 EST).

The 19-10 Michigan Wolverines are in Northwestern to take on the 20-9 Wildcats and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Michigan looks poised for a letdown here after winning five of its last six games.

Conversely, the Wildcats will be risking life and limb tonight as they’ve lost two straight.

The Wolverines are led by Derrick Walton Jr., who has averages 18 points, 6.3 boards and 5 assists over his last nine outings. 

Note though that Michigan has not won back-to-back road games all year. 

Northwestern will be especially motivated tonight after the way it fell to Indiana in its last game, succumbing 63-62 after blowing a 7-point lead with just under two minutes to play. After going just 1-5 SU in its last six, clearly a  win today against the Wolverines would put Northwestern back firmly in the NCAA tournament conversation. Bryant McIntosh was a bright spot in the loss to the Hoosiers, finishing with 22 points. “We’re going to keep fighting,” Wildcats’ head coach Chris Collins said earlier in the week. “Our guys are hurting right now and I want them to hurt but make no mistake we’re going to fight back.”

I’ll point out that Michigan is just 9-13 ATS against teams with winning records this year and only 2-7 ATS on the road, while Northwestern is 10-7 ATS as a favorite this season and 15-7 ATS against schools with winning records.

I’m expecting the hungry home side to find a way to get the job done at the end of the night. Play on Northwestern.

Good luck…Larry

My A-10 PERFECT STORM is on St. Joseph’s (7:00 EST).

The 19-9 Rhode Island Rames are at St. Joseph’s to take on the 10-18 Hawks and while I’ll stop short in calling for an outright upset, I do think that the hungry home side will at the very least, take this one down to the wire and comfortably sneak in through the back door with the ample spread that it’s been afforded in this matchup.

St. Joe’s comes in desperate after losing eight straight, most recently a hard-fought 61-60 setback at St. Louis on Saturday.

Conversely, the Rams come in complacent after winning three in a row, most recently over VCU. The Rams already smoked the Hawks at home 88-58 on January 3rd, so it’s not too hard to imagine the visitors getting caught “looking past” their lowly opponent today. 

I won’t try to convince you that the Rams are overrated and the Hawks have gotten some bad breaks this season, as that’s not the case. Rhode Island is the better team, but I think the situation favors the home side. The long losing streak, the final home game and the revenge factor are all big time motivational factors working in favor of the Hawks tonight.

But also note that Rhode Island is just 5-6 ATS on the road this year, while St. Joseph’s is 7-5 ATS this season off a loss against a conference rival.

Grab as many points as you can, play on St. Joe’s.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SEC PERFECT STORM is on Auburn (6:30 EST).

The 17-12 Auburn Tigers are in Georgia to take on the 17-12 Bulldogs and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

Auburn comes to town of a 79-68 home loss to Arkansas and has now lost four of its last five. Georgia enters off an 82-80 home win over LSU and has won four of its last five.

I think the Bulldogs come in a tiny bit complacent and expect the hungry Tigers to at the very least, take this one down to the wire.

Also note that Auburn plays with revenge after dropping the first meeting back in December 96-84. 

The Tigers average 80.1 PPG, while conceding 79.4. 

The Bulldogs average 72.4 PPG and concede 69.8. 

I’ll point out though that Auburn is 7-4 ATS on the road this year and 3-1 ATS in its last four as an underdog, while Georgia is just 3-9 ATS at home and only 4-9 ATS as the favorite.

I’m banking on the desperate visitors to keep this one competitive until the final moments. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Penn State (8:30 EST).

The 16-13 Ohio State Buckeyes are at Penn State to take on the 14-15 Nittany Lions and for a number of different reasons, i think this one favors the home side.

These teams are tied for tenth place in the Big Ten standings. Ohio State enters off an 83-73 win over Wisconsin on Thursday, while Penn State enters off three straight losses, including an 81-71 road loss to the Golden Gophers last weekend. 

So not only will Penn State be looking to get off the schneid after three straight losses, but it’s also out to avenge both losses it suffered to OSU last year (this is the first matchup this season). 

Ohio State averages 72.7 PPG and concedes 69. Jae’Sean Tate leads the nightly charge with 14.1 points and 6.3 boards per game.

Penn State averages 72.1 PPG and concedes 72.2. Tony Carr leads the team with 13.2 points and 4.0 assists per game. 

I’ll point out that Ohio State has struggled in this spot though, going 1-4 ATS in its last five against the conference and only 10-29-1 ATS in its last 40 on the road overall, while Penn State is 5-1-1 ATS in its last seven at home.

I think the Buckeyes come back down to earth after playing one of their best games of the entire season. The Nittany Lions on the other hand will be risking life and limb to break the slide and have a big advantage in playing at home tonight. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Texas A&M (7:00 EST).

The 15-13 Texas A&M Aggies are in Missouri to take on the 7-21 Tigers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

The Aggies won for the second time in three games in a 56-53 home win over Alabama on Saturday, while Missouri lost its fourth straight in a deflating 80-77 road loss at Ole Miss last weekend.

The Tigers put up a fight in the first meeting between the schools, but eventually fell 76-73. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting a much bigger win today for the Aggies.

Texas A&M averages 71.9 PPG and concedes just 68.8. Tyler Davis leads the nightly charge with 14.3 points and 6.8 boards per game.

Missouris averages 69 PPG and concedes 72. Jordan Barnett leads the team in scoring with 12.6 points and 6.2 boards per contest.

I’ll point out that Texas A&M is 4-0 ATS in its last four road games against teams with a home winning percentage of less than .400 and 4-1 ATS in its last five following an ATS loss, while Missouri is just 1-3 ATS in its last four against teams with winning records.

The Tigers are limping towards the finish line, while the Aggies continue to keep momentum levels high. This one means a lot more to Texas A&M as far as the conference standings are concerned and in my opinion, all signs do indeed point to a lop-sided affair once it’s all said and done. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on South Caroilna (7:00 EST).

The 14-14 Mississippi State Bulldogs are in South Carolina to take on the 21-8 Gamecocks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Bulldogs come in with zero momentum after six straight losses, most recently a 29 point beatdown setback by Vanderbilt.

The Gameocks on the other hand finally come in with some momentum after snapping a three-game slide with a victory over Tennessee on Saturday. Suffice it to say, I think South Carolina carries that momentum over in this one.

Mississippi State already lost at home 77-73 to South Carolina on February 11th and it clearly won’t get any easier for it on the road in this extremely hostile environment. 19 turnovers was the difference in that one, compared to just 11 for the Gamecocks.

But the Bulldogs have taken a step back since then, last week’s 77-48 loss to Vandy was perhaps the worst effort of the season. 

The Gamecocks are fighting for conference positioning and won’t be taking anything for granted. They sure looked a lot better against the Vols, holding them to 33.3 percent shooting in the 82-55 destruction: “This certainly resembles what we’ve been doing, in terms of defensive intensity,” senior guard Duane Notice said following the win over Tennessee.

Four players reached double-figures in scoring for South Carolina, which clearly doesn’t bode well for the struggling Bulldogs.

I’ll point out that Mississippi State is just 1-2 ATS this year after three or more consecutive SU losses and 0-2 ATS in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent, while South Carolina is 2-1 ATS in its last three after allowing 60 points or less. 

I think the Bulldogs simply go through the motions today. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* NON-CONF GAME OF THE WEEK is on the Golden State Warriors (7:05 EST).

The 49-9 Golden State Warriors are in Philadelphia to take on the 22-36 76ers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

Golden State enters off a third straight win and sixth in its last seven after handling the Nets 112-95 at home on Saturday. 

The 76ers have played a lot better over the last month, but looked primed for a letdown here after a late rally came up short in a 110-109 setback at new York on Saturday. 

If recent history is any precedence, then the Warriors have to be loving their chances today as they’ve taken six straight in the series, including in the most recent, a 117-105 home victory back on March 27th.

Golden State is the No. 1 ranked offense in the league with an average of 118.2 PPG. The Warriors also lead the league in assists with 31 a night. Golden State is in the middle of the pack on the defensive end, ranked 12th in conceding 105.4 per night. Kevin Durant is leading the nightly charge with 25.7 points and 8.4 boards per game.

Despite the recent “up tick” in play, Philadelphia is still ranked 25th overall in scoring with 101.6 PPG, while ranked 23rd on the defensive end in conceding 106.9. 

I’ll also point out that Golden State is 4-1-1 ATS in its last six following an ATS loss and 5-2-1 ATS in its last eight against the Eastern Conference, while Philadelphia is just 1-3 ATS in its last four after allowing 110 points or more.

I think the visitors keep the foot on the gas from start to finish and pull away down the stretch for the comfortable ATS cover. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SIDE OF THE WEEK is on Appalachian State (7:00 EST).

The 17-11 Louisiana-Lafayette Ragin Cajuns are at Appalachian State to take on the 8-19 Mountaineers and while I obviously wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can because for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Cajuns come in complacent in my opinion after three straight wins. So far Lafayette averages 80.2 PPG and allows 78. Fank Bartley IV is averaging 15.7 points and 4.4 boards per game. 

Note that the Cajuns have split their last four road games.

The Mountaineers are going to be the much “hungrier” team today, they’ve lost ten of their last 12 and will be looking to make a statement on senior night. So far the team averages just 70.8 PPG, while conceding 77.5. 

Note that App State is a “different” team at home though, having won six of its last ten there. 

I’ll point out as well that Louisiana Lafayette has already struggled mightily in this spot for bettors, going just 3-4 ATS when playing with one days rest and only 1-5 ATS off a win against a conference rival, while Appalachian State is already a perfect 2-0 ATS this year after failing to cover the spread in three or more consecutive games and 2-0 ATS as a home dog in the 3.5 to six points range.

I’m banking on this one coming down to the wire, so grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on USC (6:30 EST).

The 21-7 USC Trojans are in Arizona to take on the 13-16 Sun Devils and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

Arizona State most recently fell 87-75 to UCLA, while USC enters off a 90-77 loss to Arizona on Thursday.

When these teams met earlier in the year, the Trojans would hold on for the 82-79 victory behind 29 points by Elijah Stewart. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting a much bigger differential in the second game. 

USC owns a solid offense which averages 78.4 PPG. Defensively the Trojans are pretty mediocre in conceding 73.6. Keep your eyes on big man Bennie Boatwright, who has a combined 43 points over his last two games. 

Arizona State shot just 38.8 percent from the floor in its loss to UCLA and was out-rebounded 49-30. The Sun Devils average 79.1 PPG, but concede 81.8. 

I’ll point out that USC is 2-1 ATS in its last three after allowing 90 points or more, while ASU is just 1-2 ATS in its last three after allowing 85 points or more.

I like USC to bounce back and to keep the foot on the gas from start to finish. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on SDSU (8:00 EST).

The 16-11 San Diego Aztecs are at Colorado State to take on the 19-9 Rams and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

The Rams are tied for first place in the Mountain West and would need to win the tournament to get invited to the Big Dance. 

San Diego State has endured it’s toughest season in quite some time and enters at 8-7 in MWC play, good for sixth spot. 

But when these teams met on January 28th, it was an all out war, one which Colorado State won 78-77. I think it’s payback time today.

The Aztecs have in fact been playing a lot better of late, before stumbling 63-55 at home to Fresno State on Wednesday, they’d won three straight. 

The Rams can’t take anything for granted at this point of the season, but it’s not too hard to imagine the home side finally taking the foot off the gas a little after winning five straight and eight of its last nine. 

SDSU averages 69.7 PPG, but concedes just 63.5.

Colorado State averages 72.8 PPG and concedes 67.1.

The differential between these teams is in fact negligible. 

I’ll point out though that the Aztecs are 2-1 ATS in their last three against teams with winning records, while the Rams are only 1-2 ATS in their last three as a home fav of four points or less or pick.

I like the visitors to take this one down to the wire, play on San Diego State.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* EAST-CONF BLOWOUT OF THE MONTH is on the New York Knicks (7:35 EST).

The 21-35 Philadelphia 76ers are in New York to take on the 23-35 Knicks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The 76ers are coming off a game just last night, besting the red hot Wizards 120-112 and suffice it to say, I’m expecting a predictable letdown here in the second game of the back-to-back.

The Knicks however will be desperate to break their current slide of futility, they enter off their sixth loss in their last seven games, most recently falling 119-104 to the Cavs on the road Thursday. 

New York also plays with revenge here after falling 98-97 in Philadelphia back on January 11th.

Despite the recent “up tick” in play for the 76ers though, note that they’re still just 8-19 on the road this season. They also only average 101.2 PPG, while conceding 106.8. 

New York averages 106 PPG and concedes 109.4. Carmelo Anthony still leads the way with 23.3 points and six boards per contest.

I’ll point out though that Philadelphia is just 1-2 ATS in its last three on the road, while New York is 12-7 ATS this year after allowing 115 points or more and 10-7 ATS after a loss by ten points or more.

I think a desperate, hungry and revenge-minded Knicks team finally gets off the schneid with a convincing effort. Play on New York.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on TCU (2:00 EST).

The 22-6 West Virginia Mountaineers are at TCU to take on the 17-11 Horned Frogs and while I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset obviously, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can. 

WVU looks poised for a bit of a letdown here in my opinion after notching its third straight win, most recently a relatively simple 77-62 home victory over Texas.

TCU enters off an 87-68 setback to Kansas earlier in the week. 

Note that this is a “revenge” game for the home side as well after it fell 82-70 at West Virginia earlier in the year.

WVU remains in second in the Big 12 after Jevon Carter posted 24 points in the win over the Longhorns. So far WVU averages 85.3 PG and concedes 66.6.

TCU averages 74.3 PPG and concedes just 69.7. Alex Robinson had 15 points in the loss to the Jayhawks. 

I’ll point out though that West Virginia is just 1-2 ATS in its last three after allowing 62 points or less in its previous contest, while TCU is 2-1 ATS in its last three in trying to revenge a road loss against an opponent of 11 points or more. 

With a date at Baylor on Sunday, the team sitting directly ahead of it in the standings, I believe that WVU gets caught “looking ahead” to that more “important” contest.

Grab the points, play on the Horned Frogs.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Clemson Tigers (12:00 EST).

The 22-6 Florida State Seminoles are at Clemson to take on the 14-13 Tigers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Seminoles enter off a 104-72 beatdown of Boston College, while the Tigers will be looking to get back on track and take out their frustrations after a tough 72-71 loss to Virginia Tech ealirer in the week.

Clemson is also out to atone for an atrocious 109-61 loss to FSU on the road earlier in the month.

Dwayne Bacon led the charge for FSU in its lastest win, finishing with 16 points. The victory snapped a two game skid. Note that the Seminoles average 84.4 PPG and concede 71.5.

Clemson averages 74.7 PPG and concedes 71.4. Marcus Reed had 18 points in the nail-biting setback to the Hokies.

I’ll point out though that FSU is just 1-3 ATS in its last four after scoring 103 points or more, while Clemson is 3-1 ATS in its last four in trying to revenge a blowout loss of 30 points or more to an opponent.

With a game at Duke on Monday, the team currently tied with it in the standings, I believe Floriday State gets caught “looking past” the hungry Tigers today. Play on Clemson.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* REVENGE BLOWOUT is on the Atlanta Hawks (8:05 EST).

Miami was one of the hotttest teams in the league heading into the All Star break, winning 14 out of its final 16 games, including big victories over Houston, Golden State and these very Atlanta Hawks. 

Wiill “rest lead to rust” though for the Heat? I think the answer is yes. And now the Hawks look to take advantage and to avenge the earlier setback. 

Atlanta is just 2.5 games out of third place and will be eager to return after dropping three of its final five leading up to the break. 

Goran Dragic leads the way for Miami with 20.3 points and 6.2 assists per game, while Dwight Howard is the leader in Atlanta with 13.5 points and 13 boards per game. 

I’ll point out that Miami is just 13-14 ATS against teams with winning records this year and only 11-12 ATS after a non-conference game, while Atlanta is 8-6 ATS this season after a loss by ten points or more and 2-1 ATS in its last three against clubs with losing records.

Divisional contests are always the toughest and they almost always mean more to the home side. After losing the first matchup of the year between the clubs, the Hawks will be out to make a statement tonight. And note, with a game tomorrow at home against the Pacers, it’s not too difficult to imagine the visitors getting caught “looking ahead” to that one. I’m laying the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on Brown (7:00 EST).

A couple of cellar dwellers go head-to-head on Friday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

The Bears have lost five in a row, most recently a 66-51 setback at home to conference leading Princeton.

But Brown plays with revenge tonight after falling 77-74 to the Big Green at home less than two weeks ago.

Revenge is a powerful motivating factor and one which I think will prove to be the difference once it’s all said and done. 

Dartmouth is poised for a letdown here after winning three of its last five. 

The Bears actually had a four point lead at half time in the first meeting between the teams, but they were unable to hold it together down the stretch.

Evan Boudreaux had 21 points and 13 boards for Dartmouth, while Steven Speith had 31 points, eight boards, a block, two assists and three steals in the loss for Brown.

I’ll point out though that Brown has been solid in this spot for bettors, going 5-2 ATS in its last seven after scoring 60 points or less and 9-5 ATS in its last 14 after three or more consecutive SU losses, while Dartmouth is already 0-2 ATS this year when playing the role of favorite and just 5-8 ATS in its last 13 off a win against a conference rival. 

I think the home side comes in complacent and the hungry Bears take this one down to the wire. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on Ohio State (9:00 EST).

The 22-5 Wisconsin Badgers are at Ohio State to take on the 15-13 Buckeyes on Thursday night and while I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I’m going to recommend grabbing as many points as you can as I look for the hungry home side to at the very least, take this one down to the wire.

Ohio State has clearly not had a great season, but it would love nothing more than to get the upset at home over the conference’s No. 1 team. 

UW ended a two-game slide with a 71-60 home win over No. 23 Maryland on Sunday. Nigel Hayes had 21 points, while Ethan Happ added 20. The 60 points given up was its fewest in Big Ten action this year as well. But note, the Badgers haven’t been perfect this season, especially from the free throw line as they shoot just 66.5 percent, ranking them 12th in the conference and 286th in the nation overall.

Thad Matta could very well be on his way out at Ohio State, but his team tried its best last time out, coming up just short in the 58-57 setback to Nebraska last Saturday. Jae’Sean Tate had 14 points and ten boards. 

Note that the Buckeyes have had eight contests decided by two or less points on the season and OSU is just 1-2 in games decided by one point. 

I’ll point out though that Wisconsin is just 3-7 ATS this year off a win against a conference rival and only 3-5 ATS on the road, while Ohio State is 2-1 ATS this season after failing to cover the spread in three or more consecutive games and 3-2 ATS in trying to revenge a road loss against an opponent.

I think the home side catches the Badgers a little flat-footed. Grab the points, play on Ohio State.

Good luck…Larry

This is a 10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the New York Knicks (8:00 EST).

The 23-24 New York Knicks are in Cleveland to take on the 39-16 Cavaliers on Thursday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

New York is at a cross roads right now, as it’s still in the playoff picture, but clearly needing some better play and some type of surge to stay in the conversation.

The Cavs are in first in the East and look forward to a favorable part of their schedule with three straight games at home over inferior opponents. After the extended All Star break, could the defending champs come out a bit flat in the opener? Possibly.

The Knicks however absolutely can not take anything for granted and need to start stringing some victories together immeidately. Obviously an outright upset win on the road against the Cavs would be a monumental step in the right direction for the club.

And while I’m not going to predict an outright upset, I do think from a motivational stand point that this one sets up great for the visitors tonight. 

Remember, Kevin Love is still out for Cleveland as well.

And note that the Knicks have in fact done well in this spot for bettors, going 15-8 ATS after a non-conference game, 1-0 ATS when playing with one more days rest and 11-6 ATS after allowing 115 points or more, while the Cavaliers have struggled in this position, going just 5-11 ATS after three or more consecutive SU victories and only 10-16 ATS against teams with losing records.

I think the home side comes out a bit flat and the desperate Knicks take this one down to the wire. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on Florida International (7:00 EST).

The 11-16 UTSA Roadrunners are at FIU to take on the 6-21 Golden Panthers on Thursday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Neither team will be playing in any postseason tournaments. The Roadrunners come into this one having lost three straight, while the Panthers enter having dropped six of their last seven. 

So where does the motivation come from in a game like this? For me, I think the Panthers have the advantage as they play with revenge after a narrow 68-63 setback at UTSA back on January 12th. 

FIU has been “oh-so-close” as well of late, most recently falling 69-66 to Southern Miss in OT last Thursday. However, the Panthers will be looking to atone for a lacklustre 77-61 setback to Louisiana Tech in their last one. Donte McGill was a bright spot though with 20 points. 

I’ll point out that UTSA is just 2-7 ATS this year against teams with losing records and only 1-2 ATS after allowing 80 points or more, while FIU is 2-1 ATS in its last three off a loss against a conference rival.

Florida Atlantic has four players with average double figures. I think the home side finds a way to get the job done at the end of the night. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on Northeastern (7:00 EST).

The 14-14 Northeastern Huskies are at Elon to take on the 17-12 Phoenix and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

It’s an important end of the season matchup for both teams, as Northeastern is looking to hold onto sixth spot in the CAA at 7-9. Elon is tied with William & Mary for fourth place at 9-7. 

But I think the Huskies are going to be the “hungrier” team today after three straight losses and dropping five of their last six, including an 85-71 home loss to Charleston on Saturday. 

These teams played against each other on January 26th and the Phoenix managed the 51-49 victory. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting another tightly contested affair this time around as well as the revenge-minded Huskies look for a little payback on the road.

Northeastern averages 71.8 PPG and allows 70.4. TJ Wiliams leads the nightly charge with 21.4 points and 5.1 assists per game.

Elon averages 74.2 PPG and allows 70.9. Tyler Seibring averages 14.1 PPG to lead the team.

I’ll point out though that Northeastern is already 2-1 ATS this year in revenging a home loss against an opponent and 6-4 ATS against teams with winning records, while Elon is just 1-6 ATS in its last seven as a home fav of 3.5 to six points and only 10-12 ATS in its last 22 games played in the month of February. 

Northeastern has talent, it beat Michigan State and UConn earlier in the year and it also plays with revenge. While I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset obviously, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on California (9:00 EST).

The 24-4 Oregon Ducks are in California to take on the 18-8 Golden Bears and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

I think Oregon has a bit of a letdown here after winning three straight, most recently pounding Colorado 101-73 at home.

Conversely, the Bears will be risking life and limb today as they’ve lost two in a row, most recently a 73-68 setback at Stanford as the favorites. 

Note that this one does indeed set up as a “revenge” game for the home side after it fell 86-63 in the first matchup in Oregon.

If the Ducks have had one weakness this year though, it has in fact been their play on the road where they’ve averaged just 73.6 PPG, while conceding 69.4. Dillon Brooks averages 15.4 PPG and had 23 in the win over the Buffs.

The Bears average 72.2 PPG at home, while conceding just 60.3. Jabari Bird had 23 points in the latest setback to the Cardinal.

I’ll point out though that Oregon is just 2-3 ATS this year against good defensive teams which allow 64 points or less per contest, while Cal is 4-2 ATS as an underdog and 2-1 ATS off a loss against a conference rival. 

The Bears are a tough defensive team and they’ll be risking life and limb today to score the upset. I’m expecting this to be a highly competitive affair and look for it to come down to the final possession. Grab as many points as you can, play on Cal.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Louisville (9:00 EST).

The 22-5 Louisville Cardinals are in North Carolina to take on the 23-5 Tar Heels and while I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can as for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

UNC has won two straight, including an impressive 65-41 victory over No. 18 Virginia last time out. 

The Cardinals have won three straight and six of seven, most recently a 94-90 victory over Virginia Tech on Saturday.

If recent history is any precedence, then the Cardinals have to be liking their chances for the upset today as when these teams met in their lone matchup a year ago, Louisville came out on top 71-65. 

Donovan Mitchell had 19 points for the Cardinals in the win over the Hokies. Note that Louisville averages 77.8 PPG and concedes just 64.1 

UNC averages 86.9 PPG and concedes 71. Justin Jackson leads the team with an average of 18.6 PPG.

I’ll point out though that Louisville is 4-1-1 ATS in its last six road games and 6-1 ATS in its last seven following an ATS loss, while UNC is just 2-3 ATS this year after allowing 60 points or less.

The Cardinals have the size to compete with UNC on the boards. This one is coming down to the wire, grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on South Carolina (7:00 EST).

Florida is currently tied for first in the SEC with No. 11 Kentucky with a 12-2 league record.

But I think the Gators have a letdown here after winning eight straight. Conversely, the Gamecocks come in ultra focused and hungry after dropping three of their last four. 

Keep your eyes on Sindarious Thornwell for South Carolina, he’s averaging 20.2 PPG. The Gamecocks average 73 PPG and give up just 64.1. The Gators average 79.5 PPG and allow 65.9. 

These teams met earlier in the year and South Carolina came out on top of a very defenisve affair 57-53. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting a very similar battle this evening. 

I’ll point out that South Carolina is already 4-2 ATS as an underdog this year, while Florida is 0-3 ATS this season as a home fav in the 9.5 to 12 points range.

I think Thornwell has another big game and the desperate visitors take this one down to the wire. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Rhode Island (6:00 EST).

The 17-9 Rhode Island Rams are at La Salle to take on the 14-11 Explorers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

The Rams look to continue to build momentum after they broke a two-game slide with a 77-74 road win over George Mason on Saturday. 

La Salle also broke a two-game skid with an 83-68 home victory over Saint Joseph’s on Saturday. 

Note that this is a revenge game for Rhode Island after it lost 87-75 at home in the first meeting back on January 12th. 

Stanford Robinson was a stand out for the Rams in their last victory, scoring a career-high 21 points off the bench. So far Rhode Island averages 73.7 PPG and concedes just 66.2.

La Salle averages 77.8 PPG and concedes 77.6. The Explorers shoot a solid 46.6 percent from the floor. 

I’ll point out that Rhode Island is already 5-3 ATS this year off a win against a conference rival and 2-1 ATS after failing to cover the spread in three or more consecutive games, while La Salle is just 2-5 ATS as an underdog this season and only 3-4 ATS off a win against a conference rival. 

I think this is a great spot for the Rams and believe their tough defensive play will prove to be the difference. Play on Rhode Island.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Penn State (6:00 EST).

The 22-5 Purdue Boilermakers are at Penn State to take on the 14-13 Nittany Lions and while I’ll stop short in calling for an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can as I look for the home side to keep this one competitive until the final moments.

I think Purdue comes in a bit complacent here after winning its fifth straight, hammering Michigan State 80-63 at home on Saturday. 

Conversely, the Nittany Lions will be looking to get back into the winners circle after they had their two-game win streak snapped in an 82-66 road loss to Nebraska on Tuesday. 

To say this is a “revenge” game for Penn State would be a bit of an understatement I think as well as the Boilermakers have taken eight of the last ten meetings, including four straight (that includes a 77-52 home win in the first matchup this year back on January 21st).

Purdue averages 81.3 PPG and concedes 66. Caleby Swanigan leads the nightly charge with 18.9 points and 13 boards per contest. 

The Nittany Lions average 72.2 PPG and concede 71.8. Tony Carr leads the way with 12.6 points and 4.7 boards per game (he had 15 points and seven boards in the loss to Nebraska). 

I’ll point out though that Purdue is just 2-4 ATS this year on the road, while Penn State is 7-4 ATS home and 5-3 ATS in its last eight when trying to revenge a blowout loss to opponent of 20 points or more (it’s also 4-2 ATS this year in revenging a road loss against an opponent). 

I think Penn State is the “hungrier” team today and look for it to give the Boilermakers everything they can handle. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SIDE OF THE WEEK is on Texas (9:00 EST).

The 10-17 Texas Longhorns are in West Virginia to take on the 21-6 Mountaineers and while I won’t be sold bold as to predict an outright upset, for a number of different reasons I believe the visitors can keep this one closer than what Las Vegas is leading us to believe.

I simply feel that the Longhorns will be the much “hungrier” team tonight as they come in having lost three straight, most recently a tough 64-61 home setback to K-State on Saturday.

Conversely, No. 9 WVU comes in complacent in my opinion, it’s won three of its last four, including a very satisfying 83-74 double OT victory over Texas Tech on Saturday. 

These teams played on January 14th and it was WVU that scored the narrow 74-72 road win. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting a similar competitive affair this evening. 

The Longhorns average only 68.6 PPG, but concede just 69. Kendal Yancy was a bright spot in the loss to Kansas State with 13 points.

WVU averages 85.6 PPG and concedes 66.8. Jevon Carter leads a balanced attack with an average of 12.2 PPG. 

Clearly the Mountaineers are the better team, but they struggled against the Longhorns already this year and I’m expecting another difficult war this evening. 

Texas won’t simply be rolling over and note, the Longhorns are in fact 6-3 ATS on the road this year, 9-6 ATS as an underdog and 3-1 ATS after three or more consecutive SU losses, while WVU is just 5-6 ATS at home and only 3-5 ATS off a win against a conference rival. 

Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on UNLV (4:00 EST).

The 10-16 UNLV Runnin’ Rebels are in San Diego to take on the 15-10 Aztecs and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors ths visitors.

The Runnin’ Rebels are desperate to stop a six-game slide and they came very close in their last game, eventually falling 76-74 to San Jose State on Saturday. 

Clearly SDSU is the better all around team and it’ll feel comfortable on its own floor tonight. The Aztecs though are going to come in complacent in my opinion after going 4-1 in their last five, most recently a victory over Utah State on Wednesday. 

This is a “revenge” game for the Runnin’ Rebels after falling 64-51 in the first regular season meeting at home last month. 

San Diego State has endured and up and down season compared to other years and was in last place in the Mountain West Conference as recently as of January 11th, before winning two in a row and four of its last five.

So am I suggesting to you to “sprinkle a little on the money line?” Of course not. I simply feel this one sets up well for a UNLV team which is going to be pushing the pace from start to finsh and facing a now contented Aztec side which I think won’t be able to help itself in looking past their lowly opponent today, to their much more important game against Fresno State in the middle of the week (the team that currently sits just one position ahead of them in the standings). 

While I’m not calling for the outright upset, I do definitely think this one will be a lot closer than what Las Vegas is leading us to believe. Play on UNLV.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on Temple (4:00 EST).

The 13-12 Conncecticut Huskies are at Temple to take on the 14-13 Owls and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

I think the Huskies get caught a little flat-footed and content this afternoon after three straight victories. UConn most recently picked up a hard-fought 65-62 road win over Memphis.

Meanwhile the Owls will be hungry to get back into the winners circle after their 78-64 road loss to East Carolina on Wednesday.

Note that this also sets up as a “revenge” game for Temple, as it fell 73-59 at Connecticut earlier in the year. 

I think the Owls are going to be the much “hungrier” team overall today. Temple comes in off the loss and is out to avenge the earlier setback. 

The Huskies are ripe for the picking in my estimation. There’s no question that they’ve looked a lot better of late, but I think they’re now out of gas after three straight wins, including having to come back from a 14 point half-time deficit against the Tigers in their last one. 

Note that UConn averages only 67.8 PPG, while conceding just 65.5.

The Owls average 70.7 PPG and concede 71.3. 

The numbers favor the Huskies, but the overall situation definitely favors the home side in my opinion. 

The trends also favor the Owls, as note that UConn is just 4-7 ATS as underdog this year, while Temple is 2-1 ATS in its last three at home and 2-1 ATS in its last three as the favorite.

I’m laying the points and expecting the home side to risk life and limb for the victory today. Play on Temple.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Virginia (8:15 EST).

The 18-7 Virginia Cavaliers are in North Carolina to take on the 22-5 Tar Heels and while I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I believe for a number of different reasons that the visitors can at the very least, take this one down to the wire.

UNC enters off a 24 point win on the road over NC State, bouncing back from an eight-point loss to Duke on Feb. 9th. 

I simply feel that the Cavs will be the “hungrier” side tonight, as they come into this one having lost two straight, including an 80-78 OT road loss at Virginia Tech on Sunday, before a 65-55 setback at home to Duke on Wednesday. 

These teams split their series last year, with UNC winning in the NCAA Tournament and Virginia winning at home.

The Cavs had their shot against the Blue Devils, going into the break with a 25-21 lead, but clearly blew it in the second half. Point guard London Perrantes was a bright spot with 14 points. 

Virginia averages just 68.8 PPG, but makes up for it on the defensive end, conceding just 55.5 PPG, ranked No. 1 overall in the nation.

The Cavs have an opportunity to finally get untracked offensively, as UNC has allowed an average of 78 PPG over its last five. The Tar Heels have averaged 80 PPG over that span, but now face their stiffest test of the season. Joel Berry II led the way for UNC in the latest victory with 18 points and six assists. 

I’ll point out though that North Caroilna is just 4-5 ATS this year off a win against a conference rival, while Virginia is a perfect 3-0 ATS as an underdog and 3-1 ATS after scoring 60 points or less.

Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Washington (8:00 EST).

The 24-3 Arizona Wildcats are in Washington to take on the 9-17 Huskies and while I won’t be so bold as to predict an outright upset, I do definitely think that that home side will keep this one a lot more competitive than what Las Vegas is leading us to believe.

If ever Arizona was ever going to come into a contest a tiny bit “complacent,” then this would be it. The No. 5 Wildcats have won three straight and are No. 1 in the Pac 12 with a 13-1 record. 

Washington on the other hand is just 2-12 in league play. The Huskies have lost eight straight, but are still fighting, most recently falling 83-81 at home against Arizona State on Thursday.

Not surprisingly, this does indeed also set up as a “revenge” spot for the home side, as the Huskies would fall 77-55 at Arizona on January 29th. 

The Wildcats were killed by 27 on the road in Oregon on Feb. 4th, but have since bounced back to win three straight. On the year Arizona averages 74.9 PPG and concedes 63.3. Parker Jackson-Cartwright had 20 points in the latest win over Washington State.

Washington has a great offense, but the defense has been the major issue, conceding an average of 81.1 PPG. But the Huskies are still clearly competing, keep your eyes on Markelle Fultz, who had 19 points and four assists in their most recent setback to ASU. 

I’ll point out that Arizona is just 2-3 ATS this year when playing with one or less days rest and interestingly, only 1-2 ATS against poor defensive teams which allow 77-plus points per contest, while Washington is 2-1 ATS against good defensive teams which allow 64 points or less per contest.

With a game at home against third ranked USC early next week, I think the visitors get caught looking ahead. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Towson (7:00 EST).

The 8-20 James Madison Dukes are at Towson to take on the 18-10 Tigers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

Towson sits in third in the CAA after beating Elon at home on Thursday. Towson is now 10-5 in confernece action and this is its final home game of the season. 

James Madison is just 6-9 in league play, putting it in seventh. 

I think JMU is poised for a letdown here though after its big 95-92 win over William and Mary on Thursday. 

Note that this is a “revenge” game for the home side as well after it fell 64-44 in the first meeting from Harrisonburg.

I’m not reading too much into the Dukes latest victory, as they came into that one having lost seven of their previous eight. All five JMU starters scored in double figures in the iwn over the Tribe. 

Note that James Madison averages 66.1 PPG and concedes 69.7.

Towson averages 74.1 PPG and concedes 69. Mike Morsell had 32 points in the win over Elon. 

I’ll point out that JMU is 4-8 ATS on the road this year, 7-10 ATS as an underdog, 1-7 ATS when playing with one or less days rest and just 1-4 ATS after allowing 80 points or more, while Towson is 6-3 ATS off a win against a conference rival and 4-1 ATS in revenging a road loss against an opponent. 

I like Towson to avenge the earlier loss and to comfortably pull away down the stretch for the win and cover. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on NC State (12:00 EST).

The 20-7 Notre Dame Fighting Irish are at NC State to take on the 14-13 Wolfpack and while I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can, because for a number of different reasons I do indeed believe this one favors the home side.

Notre Dame looks poised for a letdown after winning three in a row, most recently an 84-76 victory at Boston College.

Conversely, NC State comes in with nothing to lose, except another game of course as the Wolfpack have now dropped six straight. 

The Fighting Irish could be running out of gas, they actually were down by ten points at half time to the Eagles, but somehow managed to battle back for the win. Bonzie Colson had 20 points in the victory.

Note that the Irish average 75.5 PPG and allow 73.4 PPG in league play thus far. 

NC State averages 75 PPG, while conceding 87.4 in conference action. However, take note that at home the Wolfpack have averaged 85.4 PPG and allowed 76.7. Keep your eyes on Dennis Smith Jr, who averages 19 PPG.

I’ll point out that Notre Dame is just 1-2 ATS in its last three after a three game or more unbeaten streak, while NC State is 2-1 ATS in its last three after failing to cover the spread in three or more consecutive contests.

I think the Irish come in a bit complacent in the early afternoon matchup and the hungry home side at the very least, takes this one down to the wire. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Miami Florida (12:00 EST).

The 14-11 Clemson Tigers are in Miami to take on the 17-8 Hurricanes and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Tigers come to town off a 95-83 home win over Wake Forest. Clemson though is just 4-9 in conference action.

The Hurricanes are off a 70-61 home win over Georgia Tech to move to 7-6 in ACC play.

I’m not reading too much into Clemson’s latest victory, despite the win the Tigers have still conceded an average of 84.5 PPG over their last four. 

Note that in true road games this year Clemson has averaged just 68.4 PPG and allowed 75.4. 

The Hurricanes have won five of their last seven and are now 12-2 at home so far this season.

Miami has been particularly tough on everyone in front of the home town crowd, averaging 74.7 PPG and conceding just 62.3. Davon Reed had 21 points and seven boards in the victory over Georgia Tech.

I’ll point out that Clemson is just 2-7 ATS in its last nine against teams with a winning percentage above .600, while Miami is 3-1-1 ATS the last five in this series when at home.

I simply can’t see the inconsistent Tiger offense mustering any sort of attack against the Hurricanes smothering defense. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Northern Iowa (12:00 EST).

The 14-12 Northern Iowa Panthers are in Wichita State to take on the 24-4 Shockers and while I won’t be so bold as to call for an outright upset, I do definitely think the visitors can keep this one close enough to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch. 

This sets up as a revenge game for the Panthers after they fell 80-66 at home to Wichita State back on January 8th. 

Note though, the Panthers have recent history on their side still as they took two of three last year, including a 53-50 victory at Witchita State which snapped the Shockers 43-game home-court win streak.

UNI comes in with plenty of momentum as it’s won four in a row and nine of its last ten. The Panthers sit a 9-6 in MVC play. Keep your eyes on Bennett Koch, who is averaging a team-best 15.2 points and 5.9 boards over his last ten games.

The Shockers are 14-1 in conference action, but note that they’re just 1-4 ATS in their last five after a six game or more SU unbeaten streak.

And note that UNI has in fact excelled in this spot, going 3-1 ATS in its last four in trying to revenge a road loss against an opponent in which it was held to 66 points or less.

Grab as many points as you can, play on Northern Iowa.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* PERFECT STORM is on Cornell (7:00 EST).

The 6-17 Cornell Big Red are at Dartmouth to take on the 5-16 Big Green and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

Cornell enters off an 82-63 road loss to Pennsylvania, while Dartmouth comes in off a rare 77-74 road win over Brown last weekend. 

The Big Red scored the 75-62 home win over the Big Green earlier in the year and suffice it to say, I’m expecting a repeat performance tonight. In that contest, Cornell’s Matt Morgan scored 22 points.

So far Cornell averages 71.7 PPG, while conceding 77.1.

Dartmouth is even worse, averaing just 65.8 PPG, while conceding 73. 

I’ll point out that Cornell is already 3-2 ATS this year off a loss against a conference rival and a near-perfect 3-1 ATS after allowing 80 points or more, while Dartmouth is just 2-3 ATS at home and only 2-3 ATS in trying to revenge a road loss against an opponent. 

I think Cornell can duplicate its winning effort over Dartmouth from earlier in the year. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on Utah (9:00 EST).

The 17-8 Utah Utes are in Oregon to take on the 22-4, No. 7 Ducks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

The Utes come in with momentum, having won two straight after losing three of four, most recently scoring the 85-61 home effort over Washington on Saturday. 

Oregon bounced back from a rare loss to UCLA in an 81-70 road victory over USC on Saturday. 

To say this is a “revenge” game for Utah though would be a bit of an understatement I think, as Oregon has taken nine of the last ten in the series, including a closely contested 73-67 road win on January 26th. 

So far Utah is 8-5 in conference play. Devon Daniels and Parker Van Dyke each had 16 points in the latest win over Washington. Note that the Utes average 80.5 PPG and concede just 67.9.

Oregon averages 79 PPG and concedes 64.4. After the win over the Trojans, the Ducks stand at 11-1 in Pac-12 action. Dillon Brooks had 21 points in the win over USC.

I’ll point out though that Utah is 6-2 ATS on the road this year, 5-2 ATS off a win against a conference rival and 8-5 ATS after scoring 80 points or more, while Oregon is just 1-2 ATS in its last three playing against a team in a revenge scenario after holding that opponent to 67 points or less in the first contest.

I won’t be so bold to predict an outright upset, but I do think that the visitors can keep this one a lot more competitive than what the oddsmakers are leading us to believe. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on San Francisco (9:00 EST).

The 18-9 San Francisco Dons are in Gonzaga to take on the 26-0 Bulldogs and while I won’t be going out on a limb tonight and predicting an outright upset, I do think that the visitors can keep this one a lot more competitive than what Las Vegas is leading us to believe.

Gonzaga smashed Saint Mary’s last weekend, while San Francisco had its four game win streak snapped in a loss to BYU last Saturday. 

Despite the loss to the Cougars, the Dons are off to their best 27-game start since 1999. San Francisco has gotten better as the season has worn on and it’s been especially stout on the defensive end, holding its last nine opponents to fewer than 70 points. 

San Francisco also ranks No. 1 in the WCC (27th nationally) in three-pointers made per game (9.3). Keep your eyes on Charles Minlend, who averages 10.2 PPG (I’ll point out that the Dons are already 4-1 ATS this year off a loss against a conference rival and 6-4 ATS when playing the role of underdog).

So far the Bulldogs have yet to be challenged this season. They steam rolled their way through the non-conference portion of their schedule and are 14-0 so far in league play. Nigel Williams-Goss leads the nightly charge with 15.7 PPG. 

Gonzaga averages 85.1 PPG and concedes 61.7. 

San Francisco’s offensive and defensive numbers aren’t that far off from the Bulldogs though. Clearly Gonzaga is the better team, but I think the stage is set for a small mental letdown tonight, leaving the back door open just enough for the talented visitors to sneak in through down the stretch. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on Wisconsin (7:00 EST).

This is an important game. Wisconsin is desperate to hold its lead atop the conference, while Michigan is still fighting to cement its spot in the Big Dance. 

The Badgers are 21-4 and will have something to prove to everyone today after a listless 66-59 setback at home to Northwestern. Wisconsin entered that contest on an eight-game win streak, but was flat from the opening tip. 

Note that over the last four seasons, the Badgers are 54-19 (.740) in road/neutral games, owning the fourth-best winning percentage in the country. Also over that span, UW is 33-9 (.786) in February/March regular season contests. Keep your eyes on Ethan Happ, who leads the team in points (15.7), rebounds (8.8), assists (2.8), blocks (1.5) and steals (2.5) per game. 

Also note that the Badgers are fourth in the nation in scoring defense, conceding just 60.4 PPG.

Michigan has now won four of its last six. After beating rival Michigan State and then Indiana 75-63 on Sunday though, I think the Wolverines have a letdown here. Derrick Walton Jr. had 25 points in the victory over the Hoosiers.

I’ll point out that Michigan is just 5-7 ATS against conference opponents this season, just 5-8 ATS at home and only 7-12 ATS against teams with winning records, while Wisconsin is 8-5 ATS in its last 13 after scoring 60 points or less.

If history is any precedence, then the Badgers are loving their chances today as they’ve won five in a row in Ann Arbor. Wisconsin won 68-65 in Madison in the first matchup this season and I think a similar final outcome is in the cards tonight. Play on the Badgers.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on James Madison (7:00 EST).

The 14-11 William & Mary Tribe are at James Madison to take on the 7-20 Dukes and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Tribe come in off a satisfying 89-79 home win over Charleston, while the Dukes come off a heart-breaking 58-57 home loss to Delaware.

These teams played last month and William & Mary edged JMU 73-72. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting another battle down to the wire tonight.

Omar Prewitt was a stand out for the Tribe in their latest victory, finishing with 30 points. So far William & Mary averages 81.1 PPG and concedes 76.2. 

The Dukes average just 65 PPG, but concede just 68.9. Jackson Kent had 17 points in the loss to the Blue Hens.

I’ll point out that the Tribe are just 4-8 ATS on the road this year and only 1-3 ATS in their last four after scoring 80 points or more, while JMU is already 3-1 ATS this season as a home dog in the 3.5 to six points range.

James Madison was oh so close to a victory last time out and will be risking life and limb to try and score the upset today. While I obviously wouldn’t be shocked by an outright win, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can, play on James Madison.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Atlanta Hawks (10:35 EST).

The 32-23 Atlanta Hawks are in LA to take on the 34-21 Clippers and for a number of different reasons, i think this one favors the visitors.

I believe that LA has a letdown after winning three straight and in the final game before the All Star break. 

The Hawks come to town off a confidence building 109-104 OT victory in Portland on Monday. 

Note that this sets up as a “revenge” game as well for the visitors after LA beat the Hawks by ten in Atlanta earlier in the year. 

Keep your eyes on the Hawks’ Paul Millsap tonight, he had 21 points, nine rebounds, five assists and four blocked shots in the victory over Portland. 

Atlanta averages 104.1 PPG and concedes 104.3.

LA averages 108.1 PPG and concedes 104.5. Blake Griffin has stepped up his play of late, averaging 26 points, 7.5 assists and 10.3 boards over his last four games.

I’ll point out though that that Clippers are just 8-12 ATS in non-conference games this year, just 9-10 ATS after a win by ten points or more and only 7-8 ATS after three or more consecutive SU victories, while the Hawks are 3-1 ATS in their last four in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent and 5-3 ATS as a road dog of three points or less.

I think the home side comes out a bit flat and the Hawks, at the very least, take this one down to the wire. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Utah Jazz (9:05 EST).

The 23-32 Portland Trailblazers are in Utah to take on the 34-22 Jazz and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Both teams come in on losing streaks, as the Jazz have lost three straight, while the Blazers have gone just 1-4 in their last five following a deflating OT loss to ATL on Monday.

It’s been Utah’s offense which has let it down of late, amassing a season-low in its latest setback to the Clippers. The Jazz are still the best defensive club in the league though and I think they get back to form tonight.

The Jazz offense also catches a break in facing the Blazers’ vanilla defense, ranked in the lower-third in most categories.

I’ll also point out that Portland is just 10-18 ATS on the road this season, just 10-15 ATS against clubs with winning records, only 14-24 ATS after allowing 105 points or more and just 3-7 ATS off an upset loss as a favorite. 

And note that Utah is 4-1 ATS in its last five after scoring 73 points or less in its previous outing.

I think the Jazz are the deeper team and expect their smothering defense to be just too much for the inconsistent Blazers to handle tonight. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the San Antonio Spurs (7:05 EST).

The 42-13 San Antonio Spurs are in Orlando to take on the 21-36 Magic and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

This is the final game of the first half before the All Star break. The Spurs come to town off a 110-106 win over Indiana on Monday, while the Magic enter off a rare victory, picking up a 116-107 road win over the Heat on Monday. 

Note that this does in fact set up as a “revenge” spot for the Spurs, as Orlando took the first matchup of the season, 95-83, back on November 29th. Suffice it to say, I think Gregg Popovich and company haven’t forgotten that embarrassing performance and will be out to atone with a big beatdown performance this evening.

San Antonio averages 106.7 PPG and concedes just 98.7. Kawhi Leonard leads the nightly charge with 25.9, 5.9 boards and 1.8 steals a night. Big man Lamarcus Aldridge contributes 17.4 points and 7.4 boards.

Let’s not read too much into the Magic’s latest victory, they’d lost four straight and six of seven prevoius to downing the Heat. Note that Orlando averages just 99.9 PPG and concedes 106.1. 

I’ll point out that the Spurs are 12-4 ATS in their last 16 after allowing 100 points or more in their prevoius outing, while the Magic are just 1-5 ATS in their last six against the Western Conference.

The Magic just dealt Serge Ibaka and will once again have to make adjustments on the fly. That doesn’t bode well facing a Spurs team that’s firing on all cylinders and out for revenge. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Southern Illinois (7:00 EST).

The 23-4 Wichita State Shockers are at Southern Illinois to take on the 14-13 Salukis and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Not surprisingly this sets up as a revenge game for the Salukis who were crushed 87-45 at Wichita State earlier in the year. 

The Shockers are an awesome team. The Salukis are an extremely average team. 

Wichita State averages 81.6 PPG and concedes 62.6.

Southern Illinois averages 70.2 PPG and concedes 70.4. The Salukis are led by Mike Rodriguez with 12.9 PPG. 

I’ll point out though that Wichita State is already 0-2 ATS this year as a road fav of 12 points or more, while Southern Illinois is 12-8 ATS in its last 20 in trying to revenge a road loss against an opponent and 3-1 ATS in its last four at home this season (also 4-1 ATS this year against good offensive teams which average 77-plus points per contest).

I’m not predicting an outright upset or anything ere, but do think that the stage is set for the Shockers to have a minor mental letdown tonight. I’m grabbing the points.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on St. Bonaventure (7:00 EST).

The 13-10 La Salle Explorers are at St. Bonaventure to take on the 15-9 Bonnies and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

La Salle enters off a listless 64-52 home loss to Richmond, while the Bonnies come in off a 76-70 setback at George Washington.

The Explorers looked feeble on the offensive end against the Spiders, shooting just 40.4 percent from the floor, including only 20 percent from range. So far La Salle averages 76.3 PPG and gives up 80.2 in true road games this year.

St. Bonaventure has lost two of its last three, but it has to be feeling pretty confident that it can bounce back tonight as it’s averaged 81.6 PPG and conceded 77.2 at home for the year. Jaylen Adams leads the nightly charge with an average of 21.3 PPG.

I’ll point out that La Salle ist just 3-5 ATS on the road this year, just 2-4 ATS as an underdog and only 5-7 ATS against teams with winning records, while St. Bonaventure is 2-1 ATS off a loss against a conference rival.

The Bonnies have allowed just 59.8 PPG in their last four home games in regulation, which doesn’t bode well for an Explorers team suddenly struggling with offensive consistency. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Davidson (7:00 EST).

Not much to play for for either team tonight, as neither will likely be playing in any postseason tournaments.

I simply feel that home court advantage can’t be overlooked in this particular matchup and am expecting the Wildcats to make the most of it.

George Washington ended a three-game losing streak on Saturday in a 76-70 home win over St. Bonaventure. Tyler Cavanaugh was a standout with a career-high 33 points to go along with ten boards. 

Davidson will be the much “hungrier” side tonight as it looks to break a three-game slide, most recently falling 74-60 at VCU. The Wildcats are led by Jack Gibbs, who ranks among the conference scoring leaders with an average of 21.2 PPG. 

I’ll point out that the Colonials are just 3-7 ATS in their last ten following a SU victory and just 1-5 ATS in their last six road games, while Davidson is 2-1 ATS in its last three after scoring 60 points or less.

This is also a revenge game for Davidson after falling 73-69 to the Colonials on Janaury 5th. I’m laying the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* WESTERN CONFERENCE BLOWOUT SIDE OF THE MONTH is on the LA Lakers.

The 23-32 Sacramento Kings are in LA to take on the 19-37 Lakers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Kings are poised for a letdown here in my opinion after going 4-1 on a five-game homestand, including downing the Pelicans 105-99 at home on Sunday. 

LA returns home off a 2-3 road trip, most recently beating the Bucks 122-114 on Friday. 

To say this is a “revenge” game for the Lakers would be a bit of an understatement as the Kings have won eight of the last nine in the series, including 116-92 in the lone matchup this season back on December 12th. 

It’s a classic letdown spot for Sacramento though, which also beat Golden State, Boston and Atlanta during the home surge. And note that despite the recent up-tick in play, the Kings are still tied for just 21st in the league in scoring with an average of 103.4 PPG. Unfortunately, the defense hasn’t been much better, ranked 18th in conceding an average of 105.8 per contest. DeMarcus Cousins averages 27.8 points and 10.7 boards per game this year. 

The Lakers posted 47 first quarter points against the Bucks on Friday. Overall LA is ranked 18th in the league in scoring with an average of 104.7 PPG, while ranked 29th on the defensive end in conceding 110.5 per night. Keep your eyes on Lou Williams, who leads the team with 18.4 points and 3.1 assists per night.

I’ll point out that Sacramento is already just 9-13 ATS this year after scoring 105 points or more and 0-2 ATS after three or more consecutive SU victories, while LA is 7-5 ATS after playing three consecutive road games and 7-2 ATS in its last nine against good offensive teams which average 99-plus points per contest. 

The stage is set for the Lakers to grab another victory. Play on LA.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on St. Joseph’s (6:00 EST).

The 10-14 St. Joseph’s Hawks are at VCU to take on the 20-5 Rams and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

St. Joseph’s beat VCU in the A-10 Championship game last season, but they would split a pair of games overall. This will be the only meeting this season, as the Hawks are clearly not the same team that they were a year ago.

But because of that, I think the stage is set for the high-powered Rams to come into this one a bit complacent in facing their lowly visitor tonight.

St. Joseph’s will be the “hungrier” team in my opinion as it looks to break a four-game losing streak, most recently an 87-76 setback at home to Massachusetts on Saturday. Charlie Brown was a bright spot with 15 points and eight boards. 

The Hawks average 70.6 PPG and concede 72.9. 

The Rams average 75 PPG and concede 65.6. Most recently VCU pulled away for a 74-60 home win over Davidson on Saturday. 

I’ll point out though that St. Joseph’s is already 5-3 ATS this year off a loss against a conference rival and 3-1 ATS in its last four on the road, while VCU is only 9-10 ATS as a favorite this year (including 0-2 ATS as a home fav of 12.5 points or more) and 0-2 ATS against teams with losing records.

Is a date against third place Richmond on Friday a reason to “look ahead?” Probably not. But regardless, after six straight victories, I think the Rams do indeed come out a bit flat tonight. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Utah Jazz (9:05 EST).

The 33-21 LA Clippers are in Utah to take on the 34-21 Jazz and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

I think the Clippers are poised for a letdown here after two straight wins. Conversely, after a 112-104 setback to the C’s on Saturday, I expect the home side to come out fired up tonight.

Also note that Utah plays with revenge after dropping the first game of the season to the Clippers 88-75 on the road back in October. 

The Clippers average 108.5 PPG and concede 105.1. 

The Jazz average just 100.5 PPG, but are ranked No. 1 in the league on the defensive end in conceding a mere 96 PPG.

And I’ll point out that LA is just 1-2 ATS this season as a road dog in the 6.5 to nine points range, while Utah is 2-1 ATS in its last three after allowing 105 points or more. 

I think Utah comes in focused, eager to break the string of shoddy play and to avenge the earlier loss to the Clippers. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Kansas (9:00 EST).

The 20-15 West Virginia Mountaineers are in Kansas to take on the 22-3 Jayhawks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

WVU is poised for a letdown after winning five of its last six. Kansas has won four of its last five, but does play with revenge here after falling 85-69 at West Virgina earlier in the year.

These teams are pretty evenly matched on both sides of the ball, but the situation and the trends all point to the home side as the correct call tonight.

As I’ll point out that Mountaineers are in fact already 0-1 ATS this year when playing on one days rest, while Kansas is 2-0 ATS in its last two as a home fav in the 3.5 to six points range.

Kansas has scored at least 80 points in two of its last three games and I look for it to put the foot on the gas from start to finish tonight as well. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Lafayette (8:00 EST).

The 12-12 South Alabama Jaguars are in Louisiana to take on the 14-11 Ragin Cajuns and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

I think the Jags are poised for a letdown here after winning three of their last four, most recently a 66-63 win over Louisiana-Monroe last time out. Ken Williams led the way in that one with 21 points. Note that South Alabama averages 71.9 PPG.

The Ragin Cajuns on the other hand will be risking life and limb today as they look to stop their recently slide, dropping four straight and five of their last six, most recently a 100-88 seback to Troy last time out. Frank Bartley IV had 17 points in the setback. 

Note that Louisiana-Lafayette averages 81.8 PPG thus far.

I’ll point out that South Alabama is just 7-8 ATS this year against teams with winning records and only 1-2 ATS when playing the role of underdog, while Louisiana Lafayette is 3-1 ATS in its last four after three or more consecutive losses.

I like the “hungrier” team to find a way to get the job done at the end of the night. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Orlando Magic (7:35 EST).

The 20-36 Orlando Magic are in Miami to take on the 24-31 Heat and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

The Magic come in as the “hungrier” team tonight after dropping four straight, most recently a 112-80 aetback at Dallas on Saturday.

The Heat had their 13 game win strek snapped in a 117-109 road loss to the lowly 76ers on Saturday night and suffice it to say, I’m expecting another letdown here.

The first game back after an extended trip is always a tough one for a team, many consider it a classic “trap” scenario.

Momentum is difficult to attain and once lost, it can be even more difficult to get back. And that’s the case here in my opinion. 

I’ll point out that Orlando is 3-1 ATS this year after scoring 85 points or less and 7-3 ATS after three or more consecutive SU losses, while Miami is already just 4-5 ATS after playing three consecutive road games. 

I like the desperate visitors to keep this one close enough to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Charlotte Hornets (7:05 EST).

The 20-34 Philadelphia 76ers are in Charlotte to take on the 24-30 Hornets and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

I simply feel that Charlotte is going to be the much “hungrier” team tonight. It’s lost nine of ten, most recently a 107-102 home setback to the Clippers on Saturday. 

Conversely, the over-achieving 76ers are poised for a bit of a letdown here in my opinion after winning their second straight, most recently a 117-109 home victory over Miami.

Despite the recent surge, Philadelphia remains one of the worst teams in the league on paper, averaging just 101 PPG and conceding 106.8.

Compare that to a Hornets club which averages 104.9 PPG and concedes 104.5. 

And I’ll point out that Philadelphia is just 1-2 ATS in its last three as a road dog in the 6.5 to nine points range, while Charlotte is 2-1 ATS in its last three at home. 

I expect the Hornets to risk life and limb tonight to try and secure the victory and their immense effort will translate into a lop-sided blowout once it’s all said and done. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Texas Tech (7:00 EST).

The 22-3 Baylor Bears are at Texas Tech to take on the 16-9 Red Raiders and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

Baylor looks poised for a bit of a mental letdown here in my opinion after two straight wins, most recently a 70-52 victory over TCU on Saturday. 

Conversely, the Red Raiders will be risking life and limb today as they look to stop a recent slide which has seen them drop five of their last seven, most recently a tight 80-79 home loss to Kansas on Saturday.

Note that this is also a “revenge” game for the Red Raiders as they fell 65-61 at Baylor back on January 25th. 

The Bears average 73.8 PPG and allow just 61.4. Jonathan Motley leads the nightly charge with 16.9 points and 9.7 boards per game.

The Red Raiders average 75.1 PPG and allow only 65.8. Keenan Evans posts a team high 14.9 points, plus three assists per contest. 

I’ll point out that the Bears are just 4-7 ATS this year following a conference game and only 2-6 ATS off a win against a conference rival, while Texas Tech is already 2-0 ATS this year when playing with one or less days rest, 3-2 ATS in revenging a road loss against an opponent and 3-1 ATS after allowing 80 points or more.

Texas Tech is even tougher at home and I think an upset is in the cards. That said, grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* TV BLOWOUT is on Indiana (1:00 EST).

The 15-9 Michigan Wolverines are in Indiana to take on the 15-10 Hoosiers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

I think the Hoosiers are the much “hungrier” team today as they’ve lost four of their last five. Conversely, I think the Wolverines are primed for an immediate return to mediocrity after they avenged an earlier loss to rival Michigan State in their last game.

Derrick Walton Jr. remains a consistent bright spot for Michigan, he averages 14.3 points, 4.7 boards and 3.8 assists per game. The Hoosiers will clearly be looking to slow him down this afternoon.

Indiana lost 69-64 at home to No. 18 ranked Purdue on Thursday. The Hoosiers have defeated No. 3 Kansas and No. 7 UNC during their non-conference schedule, but was then hit hard by the injury bug. 

The good news though was that leading scorer James Blackmon Jr. returned to action last week after missing three games. He posted just 11 points, but his presence is greatly need with a couple others still out.

I’ll point out that Michigan is just 1-5 ATS in its last six on the road and only 4-12 ATS in its last 16 against teams with winning records, while Indiana is 4-1 ATS in its last five at home, 4-0 ATS in its last four home games against teams with losing road records and 10-3 ATS in its last 13 following an ATS loss.

The Wolverines have been widly inconsistent this year and they’ve consistently been at their worst away from friendly confines, going 0-6 SU in true road games thus far. 

I look for Michigan’s inconsistencies to continue here and expect the desperate home side to finally get off the schneid behind a big performance from Blackmon Jr. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on Saint Mary’s.

The 25-0 Gonzaga Bulldogs are at Saint Mary’s to take on the 22-2 Gaels and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Gonzaga is 17-4 ATS so far, while Saint Mary’s is 11-9 ATS overall.

It’s a revenge game for the No. 2 team in the conference, as the Gaels fell 79-56 in Spokane in the first meeting this season. The Zags are 13-0 in conference action, while Saint Mary’s sits at 12-1. 

Gonzaga is an awesome team and hasn’t been challenged in league play so far, but I think that changes tonight. 

ESPN will be at the game tonight and the Gaels will be gunning for the outright upset and a share of the conference lead. 

These are a couple of the best teams in the country and they’re also a couple of the best when looking at “Against The Spread” statistics. One very important one sees Saint Mary’s alreaday 1-0 ATS this season in revenging a road loss against an opponent.

Gonzaga has covered five straight at Moraga, but that trend ends tonight. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on South Carolina (8:00 EST).

The 19-5 South Carolina Gamecocks are at Mississippi State to take on the 14-9 Bulldogs and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

I simply feel that the Gamecocks are going to come out fired up here after their 90-86 four-OT home loss to Alabama on Tuesday. Sindarius Thornwell was a bright spot with 44 points and 21 boards. Thornwell became the first Gamecock to record two games with a least 30 points in a season since 2009. 

Here’s the perfect opponent to get back on track against as the Bulldogs have lost five of seven, most recently a 98-92 setback in Auburn on Tuesday. Quindndary Weatherspoon led the way with 25 points. 

I’ll point out that South Carolina has dominated in this spot for bettors, going 5-0 ATS in its last five following a SU loss, 6-1-1 ATS in its last eight following an ATS loss and 6-2-2 ATS in its last ten on the road overall, while Mississippi State is just 1-2 ATS in its last three after giving up 98 points or more.

The Gamecocks are now tied in the SEC for top spot, but have a big opportunity today in facing the inconsistent Bulldogs. I think South Carolina finds a way to get the job done at the end of the night. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on Fresno State (4:00 EST).

The 14-10 Fresno State Bulldogs are at Colorado State to take on the 16-9 Rams and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

If recent history is any precedence, then the visitors have to be loving their chances today, because when these teams met back on Janaury 18th, the Bulldogs thrashed the Rams 78-57. 

Deshon Taylor led the way in that one for Fresno State with 19 points.

The Bulldogs will be coming in hungry today as well as they’ve lost three of their last four. Taylor had 32 points and nine boards in his teams 102-10 four-overtime loss to Wyoming on Wednesay. 

Conversely, I think the Rams come in a tiny bit complacent after winning five of their last six.

Colorado State is led by Gian Clavell, who averages 18.6 PPG and 6.4 boards. The Rams come in off a 67-52 win over the Utah State Aggies on Tuesday. 

I often look at “revenge” as a motivating factor, but in this case I don’t think it’s going to matter. Fresno State is desperate for a win as it sits at .500 in league play.

The Bulldogs dominated the first matchup and I think they’ll at the very least, take this one down to the wire as well. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on Appalachian State (3:30 EST).

The 16-7 Georgia State Panthers are at Appalachian State to take on the 6-16 Mountaineers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

I simply feel that Georgia State comes in complacent here after eight straight wins, most recently a 69-55 win over ULM Monroe on Monday. Jimmy Hollowell led the way with 19 points and six boards.

I won’t try to convince you that the Mountaineers are a decent team which has just had some back luck this season, as that’s not the truth. Applachian State State scores and allows 75 PPG, so there is no margin for error most nights. 

App State has lost seven straight and I think will come out hungry here. Most recently the Mountaineers fell 69-62 at Arkansas Little Rock on Monday. Ronshad Shabazz and Tyrell Johnson each scored 15 points in the setback.

I’ll point out though that Georgia State is already 0-1 ATS this year as a road fav of 3.5 to six points and just 15-25 ATS in its last 40 on the road, while Appalachian State is already 1-0 ATS this year as a home dog of 3.5 to six points and 5-3 ATS after three or more consecutive SU losses.

While I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I’ll recommend grabbing as many points as you can in the end as I look for the home side to catch Georgia State a little flat-footed tonight. Play on Appalachian State.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on La Salle (2:00 EST).

The 14-9 Richmond Spiders are at La Salle to take on the 13-9 Explorers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Both teams come into this one hot, as Richmond has won three of its last four, while La Salle has won two of its last three.

The Explorers would beat Fordham 67-52 last time out. Note that the Rams were held to just 33.9 percent from the floor overall. 

Keep your eyes on La Salle’s BJ Johnson, who finished with 26 points, eight boards, three assists and three steals in the decisive victory. 

The Spiders come in off an 84-75 win over George Washington, Khwan Fore had a career-high 24 points in the victory. 

I’ll point out though that Richmond is just 1-2 ATS in its last three against good offensive teams which score 77-plus points per contest, while La Salle is 3-1 ATS in its last four as a favorite and 3-1 its last four in front of the home town crowd.

The Explorers are the top three-point shooting team in the Atlantic 10 and they also lead the confernece in almost every single offensive category. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* (((CA$H BOMB!))) is on Pennsylvania (7:00 EST).

The 10-9 Columbia Lions are in Pennsylvania to take on the 7-12 Quakers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Lions are 4-2 in league play, while Penn is 0-6.

Columbia comes in off an 83-78 victory over Brown and was led by Luke Petrasek’s 18 points, seven boards, four assists, three steals and block. So far the Lions average 74.4 PPG.

The Quakers come in off a poor 64-49 loss to Princeton. Darnell Foreman was a bright spot with 11 points. So far Pennsylvania averages 66.3 PPG. 

I won’t try to convince you that the Quakers are a decent team which has just caught some bad breaks this year, as that’s not the case. Pennsylvania is not a very good team.

Columbia hasn’t been a “World beater’ this year either though and with a game at conference leading Princeton tomorrow night, I think this does indeed set up as a classic “trap” situation for the visitors. 

And I’ll point out that the Lions are just 1-2 ATS off a win against a conference rival this season and only 1-2 ATS after scoring 80 points or more, while the Quakers are 9-4 ATS in their last 13 after three or more consecutive Straight-Up losses.

Pennsylvania a favorite here for a reason and I think it should in fact be a larger one. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on BYU (11:00 EST).

The 17-8 BYU Cougars are at Pepperdine to take on the 7-17 Waves and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

BYU comes in off a 73-62 win over Portland on Saturday, while Pepperdine enters off an 82-72 win over Pacific. 

These teams played on January 19th and the Cougars pounded the Waves 99-70, led by 22 points and ten boards from Erik Mika. Suffice it to say, I think we’ll see a repeat performance here. 

BYU shot just 38.9 percent from the floor in its win over Portland, so will clearly be looking to get off to a better start tonight. Mika contributed 23 points, three blocks and 12 boards. 

Despite the “off” shooting night, BYU still averages 81.9 PPG, while conceding 72.7. 

Lamond Murray Jr. averages 20.7 PPG for the Waves and he had 26 in his team’s rare win over lowly Pacific on Saturday. 

Pepperdine averages just 69.2 PPG and allows 79.8.

I’ll point out that BYU is 4-1 ATS in its last five against poor defensive teams which allow 77-plus points per contest, while Pepperdine is already 0-2 ATS this year off a win against a conference rival and 0-2 ATS after scoring 80 points or more.

I have a hard time seeing Pepperdine keeping up with BYU today, I’m laying the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on the Dallas Mavericks (8:35 EST).

The 34-19 Utah Jazz are in Dallas to take on the 20-32 Mavericks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

No need to overthink this one too much in my opinion, as Utah comes in off a big 127-94 win over New Orleans just last night. I unfortunately had a play on the Pelicans in that one. The Jazz are poised for a letdown now after four straight wins and the revenge minded and much improved Mavericks will be looking to take advantage.

Dallas comes in as the “hungrier” team as it’s now dropped two in a row, most recently a 114-113 setback at home to Portland on Tuesday. 

Note that Dallas does in fact play with “triple revenge” tonight, after dropping all three previous games to the Jazz this season.

This is a great situational play, as Utah comes in tired and content. The Mavs are eager to return to the winners circle, have home court advantage and big motivation after already dropping three games to the Jazz this year.

And I’ll point out that Utah is just 10-14 ATS on the road this year and interestingly, only 18-22 ATS against poor defensive teams which allow 99-plus points per contest, while Dallas is 8-2 ATS in revenging a home loss against an opponent and 12-6 ATS after allowing 105 points or more.

While I clearly wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can. Play on Dallas.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on St. Peter’s (8:00 EST).

Both teams are hungry for a win in this one. So far St. Peter’s is 12-12 overall and 8-6 in the MAAC, while Quinnipiac is 10-14 overall and 7-7 in league play.

These teams played earlier in the year and the Peacocks got the better of the Bobcats 58-54. Since losing to St. Peter’s, the Bobcats have gone 4-4. 

It’s an interesting contrast in styles today, as St. Peter’s averages just 65.6 PPG, but concedes only 63.9, while Quinnipiac averages 76.7 points and concedes 80.7.

The Peacocks are 5-4 since beating the Bobcats. They’ve lost their last three games, but the biggest margin of defeat was just three points.

And note that St. Peter’s is 6-0 ATS in its last six following an ATS loss, while Quinnipiac is already 0-2 ATS this year as a home dog of three points or less or pick. 

I like St. Peter’s to get back into the winners circle with another big defensive effort.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Rice (7:00 EST).

FIU is just 8-13 this year and that includes a 1-9 mark in C-USA action. 

Rice comes in at the other end of the spectrum with a 15-8 overall record. The Owls though will be looking to improve upon their 5-5 record in league play. 

Rice enters in off a relatively simple 95-80 win over North Texas. Marcus Evans and Marcus Jackson combined to put up 35 points. 

FIU enters off a 95-80 loss to Charlotte on Saturday. Donte McGill was a bright spot with 27 points. The Golden Panthers looked brutal defensively, allowing the 49ers to make 60 percent of their shots from the floor. 

I’ll point out that Rice is 4-1 ATS in its last five against teams with a losing SU record, while FIU is just 1-5 ATS in its last six as a home underdog.

The Owls are looking a lot better of late, winning three of their last four, including two straight on the road. Rice beat FIU by 16 last year and I think it’ll fly away with tonight’s game as well. Play on the Owls.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SUPER SHOCKER is on the Milwaukee Bucks (8:05 EST).

The 22-30 Miami Heat are in Milwaukee to take on the 22-28 Bucks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Miami comes in on the back of an 11-game win streak, but I think it will finally have a letdown here. The Heat most recently got by Minnesota 115-113 on the road on Monday.

Conversely, the Bucks are looking to build momentum, they finally got off the schneid and broke a five-game slide with a resounding 137-112 beatdown of the Suns on Saturday. 

Note that this does indeed also set up as a “revenge” game for Milwaukee, as Miami has taken two of three meetings this year, including a 109-97 home win on January 21st in the most recent.

Note that despite the big win streak, the Heat still rank 25th in the league in scoring at 100.7 PPG. Miami is strong defenisvely though, conceding just 102.2 PPG. Goran Dragic usually leads the nightly charge, he’s averaging a team-leading 20.1 PPG.

Giannis Antetokounmpo had 30 points, 12 boards, six assists and four blocks in his team’s win over the Suns last time out. 

Milwaukee averages 105.3 PPG and concedes 105.1. Keep your eyes on big man Greg Monroe, who averages 11.1 points and 6.7 boards in a sixth man role. 

I’ll point out that Miami is just 10-12 ATS this year after a non-conference game, while Milwaukee is a perfect 3-0 ATS this season after playing three consecutive road games and 5-3 ATS as a home fav of three points or less.

Milwaukee comes in rested and focused after four days off. Too many factors working against Miami tonight, I’m laying the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* UNDERDOG OF THE MONTH is on the New Orleans Pelicans (8:05 EST).

The 33-19 Utah Jazz are in New Orleans to take on the 20-32 Pelicans and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

I believe the Jazz will finally have a letdown here after winning three straight. 

New Orleans though will be looking to build some momentum after getting off the schneid and breaking a four-game losing streak in a win over the Suns on Monday.

Utah played over its head in its 120-95 win over Atlanta on Monday, shooting a season-high 61.3 percent from the floor. Suffice it to say, I am not expecting a repeat performance here. In fact, there’s only one way that shooting percentage can go (and that’s down!). 

Anthony Davis had 34 points, nine boards and five blocks in his team’s 111-106 win over Phoenix on Monday. Point guard Jrue Holiday had 30 points, nine boards, seven assists and three steals. 

I’ll point out that Utah is just 1-7 ATS in its last eight on the road, while New Orleans is 4-0 ATS in its last four home against against teams with winng road records and 5-2 ATS in its last seven following an ATS loss.

The Jazz have a hard time with Davis, who averaged 25.3 points and 9.8 boards in four games against them last year. While I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset obviously, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can. Play on the Pelicans.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on St. Bonaventure (7:00 EST).

The 8-15 St. Louis Billikens are at St. Bonaventure to take on the 14-8 Bonnies and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

St. Louis has won three of its last four, but is still just 3-7 in conference action. 

The Bonnies are looking to bounce back after dropping two of their last three. Despite the recent slip, St. Bonaventure is still 6-4 in league play. 

And if recent history is any precedence, then the home side has to be liking its chances today as when these teams met in mid January at St. Louis, the Bonnies would go on to win 71-52. 

The Billikens average just 54.9 PPG, while conceding 68.4 PPG in true road games this year. 

The Bonnies came up short against the VCU Rams last time out, one of the best teams in the conference. Note that St. Bonaventure averages 82.6 PPG and allows 79.2 at home so far this year. Keep your eyes on Matt Mobley, who scored 34 points in the setback to VCU. 

I’ll point out that St. Louis is already just 2-3 ATS this year in revenging a home loss against an opponent and 0-2 ATS after allowing 60 points or less, while St. Bonaventure is 4-2 ATS this year after allowing 80 points or more and 2-0 ATS off a loss against a conference rival.

I think the Bonnies come in focused after scuffling of late. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on North Carolina State (7:00 EST).

The 14-10 NC State Wolfpack are in Florida to take on the 20-4 Seminoles on Wednesday night and while I won’t be so bold as to predict an outright upset, I do definitely think that the hungry visitors can keep this one a lot more competitive than what the oddsmakers are leading us to believe.

I think the Seminoles come in a bit complacent here after they smacked Clemson 109-61 in their latest action.

NC State comes in focused after losing 84-79 to Miami in its last outing.

Note that this is a “double revenge” scenario for the visitors as well after FSU took both games last year.

There were a couple of silver linings in the Wolfpack’s latest loss though, as despite allowing Miami to shoot 50 percent from the floor, they’d go on to hit an outstanding 56 percent themselves. It’s a positive that the team will look to build off of here. Dennis Smith Jr. had 31 points. 

Note that NC State averages 81.2 PPG, but concedes 78.9.

FSU averages 84.4 PPG and concedes 70.6. But after posting the whopping lop-sided victory over the Tigers this past weekend, I’m expecting a predictable letdown here. If the Wolfpack have any hopes at actually pulling off an outright upset, they’ll have to blanket Dwayne Bacon, who leads the team with 17.6 PPG.

I’ll point out though that NC State is 3-1 ATS in its last four after three or more consecutive losses, while Florida State is just 1-2 ATS this season against good offensive teams which average 77-plus points per contest.

With an important game at Notre Dame on Saturday, it’s not too hard to imagine the Seminoles in some small way getting caught “looking past” their lesser opponent this evening.

I like the Wolfpack to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch. Play on NC State.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on DePaul (6:30 EST).

The 8-15 DePaul Blue Demons are at Xavier to take on the 17-6 Musketeers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

DePaul comes in off a 92-79 loss to Marquette, while Xavier would hold on for a big 82-80 road win over Creighton last weekend. 

Note that this is a revenge game for the visitors as the Musketeers took both meetings last year.

Tre-Darius McCallum was a bright spot for the Blue Demons in the loss to the Golden Eagles, finishing with a season-high 21 points. 

DePaul has lost six in a row and 11 of 12 and sits in last place in the Big East at 1-9. Clearly the Blue Demons are a bad team, so I won’t try to convince you otherwise.

I simply feel this is a great “situation” for the visitors and think they can keep this one a lot more competitive than what Vegas is trying to lead us to believe.

Note that the Blue Demons average 70.4 PPG, but allow an average of 73.6

Xavier is primed for a letdown here though in my opinion after its epic come-from-behind victory over then No. 23 ranked Creighton on Saturday. Trevon Bluelett led the way in the upset with 16 points. The Musketeers are 7-3 in conference play so far. 

Note that Xavier averages 76.9 points and concedes 70.4.

I’ll point out though that DePaul is a perfect 3-0 ATS this year after allowing 80 points or more, while Xavier is just 2-3 ATS in the same position. 

With a game against conference leading Villanova on Friday and after the epic upset in its last outing, I think that Xavier gets caught looking past its lowly opponent this evening. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Michigan (9:00 EST).

These two teams are on the bubble as far as making the NCAA Tournament is concerned, so each will be pressing for a victory today. But Michigan plays with revenge after falling at Michigan State just last week.

The Spartans come in on a two-game win streak, most recently beating Nebraska 72-61 on Thursday. Miles Bridges had 16 points. 

Michigan comes in as the “hungrier” team though as it’s lost two straight, most recently a 70-66 setback to Ohio State on Saturday (I had the Buckeyes in that one). Derrick Walton had 25 points and ten boards in the setback. Walton averages 19.7 points, 6.8 boards and 3.2 assists per game. 

I’ll point out that Michigan State is just 3-5 ATS as an underdog this year, while Michigan is 4-2 ATS in trying to revenge a road loss against an opponent. 

It’s essentially do-or-die for the Wolverines, who will be looking to defend home court and avenge the 70-62 loss to the Spartans on January 29th. I’m laying the points.

Good luck…Larry