Analysis to follow...

Analysis to follow...

Lakers/Thunder 8:05: Thunder overdue to break their 0-4 mark on 0 rest. They're coming off a loss at home last night to San Antonio but sit at 5-2 ATS as a home dog. They'll be without Horford tonight but have some quality depth (Roby) to make up the difference and be competitive. Gilgeous-Alexander and George Hill give them a shooters chance to stay in this one. As of now AD is questionable with a toe injury and LeBron may opt to sit or limit minutes. We'll look for the Thunder to steal one here. OKC 4-1 ATS the last 5 in this series. 

Tulsa/Wichita State 7:00: Revenge game for Tulsa. The Golden Hurricane lost at home to the Shockers 69-65 on December 15th. Since then, Tulsa has gone on a 6-0 SU / 5-0 ATS. HC Haith usually has his team playing killer defense this time of year and they're in mid-season form. Tulsa is ranked 14th in the nation defensively allowing just 60.2 PPG. They're 3-0 ATS on the road and dangerous. Wichita State is definitely not the defensive team this year that they were in the Greg Marshall days. New HC Isaac Brown has them playing hard but hitting just 40.8% from the floor and not a 3 point threat. We'll grab the points with the Golden Hurricane. 

Kansas/Oklahoma State 8:00: Cowboys coming off a satisfying win at Kansas State but should run into trouble here. Oklahoma State finding ways to lose at home as exhibited against TCU and West Virginia - games they should have closed out. Bill Self eats these teams up. His Jayhawks are 12-3 ATS on the road and 11-1 ATS against a team with a winning home record. Kansas 4-1 ATS the last 5 in this series and we'll roll with the Jayhawks. 

Duke/Virginia Tech 7:00: Now that Coach K is back on the bench, Duke playing with energy and emotion. You can tell because their defense has picked up. They've had double digit steals over last two games and winning battle on the boards. F Hurt is stepping up his game and when he scores in double-digits, Duke is 18-5 SU. Sure, Duke has been overvalued most of the year but value coming back to the Blue Devils. Duke the call. 

Purdue/Michigan State 7:00: This series has favored the home team (4-0-1 ATS). Sure, Michigan State lost 7 straight ATS up until Tuesday when they got it together vs Rutgers with a 68-45 blasting. We'll look for that momentum to carry over here. Although Michigan State has its share of turnover problems, Purdue is even worse (averaging 1.8 more than opponents). And the Boilermakers are anything but their namesake offensively averaging just 71.6 PPG (201 nationally). Purdue 0-7-2 ATS vs teams above .600. We'll lay a few buckets with Aaron Henry and the Spartans. 

Analysis to come...

St. Joe's/St. Bonaventure 4:00: Hawks 0-7 SU in Billy Lange's first year at the helm but have taken on a pretty rough schedule. They've been competitive taking Auburn and URI to OT. However, they're facing basically the same team they faced last year 89-73; as a matter of fact, Bonnies have won and covered last 4 in this series with an average margin of victory of 18 points. Hawks poor defensively at the bottom tier in the nation (341st) allowing 89.4 PPG. Offensively, St. Joe's has very little perimeter game and I don't see it heating up at the Reilly Center in NY. Bonnies the call. 

Tulsa/USF 4:00: Tulsa is a streaky team when they get rolling under Haith. They have a very good defense, strong backcourt in Joiner and Rachal, and now have recently developed an inside presence with Idowu. Tulsa has won 9 straight in this series and simply the better team.

Missouri/Mississippi State 9:00: #13 ranked Missouri, picked to be a bottom feeder in their conference this season, overachieving. Coming off a big win at Arkansas on Saturday, they now have to go into a tough venue at Humphrey Coliseum vs Mississippi State. Bulldogs are coming off a double overtime loss at home vs Kentucky Saturday. Look for veteran HC Howland to clean up the Bulldogs' turnovers, which cost them late in the game. Iverson Molinar and Stewart Jr. should help lead the way. Bulldogs have covered nine straight in this series and we'll take the points here.

Northwestern/Indiana 8:30: Northwestern uncharacteristically has an offense this year. They're coming off a huge win over then #4 ranked Michigan State. They've been having success this year (4-1 SU/ATS) by utilizing a Princeton style offense and have 4 shooters on the floor to do it; consequently, they've lit it up from 3 pt range at a 43.5% clip. And yes, they still play great defense holding foes to under 60 PPG. Indiana is tough at home, no doubt; however, Northwestern has covered 4 of 5 in this series including 3 of 4 at Indiana. We'll take the hot Wildcats as Indiana had turnover issues beating Butler in their last game. 

Analysis to follow...

Wichita State/Tulsa 7:00: Wichita State dealing with the fallout of their legendary coach - Gregg Marshall - resignation. Interim HC Isaac Brown having a tough time dealing with Covid 19 issues and getting his team in rhythm. They were sloppy at home on the 12th with turnovers and offensive poor rhythm down the stretch in a winnable game vs Okie State. Tulsa, on the other hand, not polished either but did put together a decent win 11 days ago. Tulsa is ahead in the defensive curve at this point of the season as well. Tulsa has a senior laden team with Rachal (17.3 PPG) and Joiner (11.7 PPG/7 RPG) leading the way. They've covered 8 of their last 11 at home and should deliver.

St. Bonaventure/Akron 2:00: No tune up game for the Bonnies on account of Covid 19 restrictions. Akron, however, did get a chance to blow out lightweight Cedarville 97-49. The Zips arguably have the best player in the MAC Loren Christian Jackson on the floor and he's got a decent supporting cast. Bonnies do have a veteran team but they have a good travel here in their first game whereas the Zips have a mere 40 minute bus drive and have experience playing on this Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse floor in Cleveland. We'll grab the 6' points. 

Heat/Lakers 9:00: Heat has played the dog role well throughout the playoffs (9-4 ATS) and I'm staying on them here. Butler, Herro, Adebayo, Crowder, Robinson have a burning desire to compete and have proven to play with the best of them. Just need Nunn to step up his game a bit more for the shoes of Dragic are big to fill. Heat operate on 2 days rest well at 7-3 ATS. We're going to look for Miami to take this to the wire. 

Lakers/Heat 9:00: Heat should have Adebayo back on the floor today. He gives the Heat energy on both ends of the floor. He's a pretty strong finisher on the glass. Lakers were a bit sluggish in Game 3 and should deliver sustainable energy for the duration here. Lakers are 9-3 O/U off a SU loss. Heat 9-4 O/U off a win of 10+ and 5-2 O/U as a dog. This playoff series has a range of 214 to 238. Based on the trends, we'll look for this one to be on the higher side of the range tonight.

Heat/Celtics 8:30: Heat on an 11-2 run and playing off the chart team basketball. Virtually every player that hits the floor for Miami has turned in a significant contribution. Tyler Herro soared to new heights dropping 37 on Boston Wednesday. Butler, Dragic, Adebayo, Crowder just playing off the chart basketball in the playoffs. And those guys are getting spelled relief by a fabulous energy driven bench. Boston, however, has turnover problems and uncertainty in shot selection at critical times of the game which are costly. Heat Spoelstra does an amazing job preparing Miami and we'll look for the Heat to deliver tonight.

Celtics/Heat 8:30: As I mentioned for Saturday, Celtics would get a good boost from Hayward and it helped for the win and cover to get them back in the series. But the final score wasn't indicative of the competitiveness in that game. Celtics capitalized on a few Miami miscues down the stretch to blow it open. We'll look for Spoelstra, who's been doing an amazing job, to make the necessary adjustments for the Heat. Every Heat player is making a significant contribution and you don't see that often on any team. Heat on a 10-2 ATS run, 11-4 ATS off a SU loss of 10+, and yes, they play well on extended rest at 40-18 ATS on 3+ days rest. Heat deliver. 

Lakers/Nuggets 9:00: Hard to put away the Nuggets as the Jazz and Clippers found out. 2-0 deficit for Denver becoming routine and they're not going away. Held their own in Game 2 for the cover. Tonight, they'll need to crash the defensive boards harder. Denver 5-1 ATS off a SU loss, 7-1 ATS after allowing 100+, and 4-0 ATS on 1 day rest. Denver the call. 

Boston/Miami 8:30: Had Miami for first two games but will go with Boston here; after all, like Miami, they're a well coached team that should be able to close it out tonight. Hayward (questionable), who's been practicing with team, should add a spark with some solid minutes. Celtics are 6-1 ATS off an ATS loss and overdue for a win.

Miami/Boston 6:40: Good matchup with two well coached teams but like Miami in Game 1. Butler, averaging 20+ PPG in playoffs is a difficult matchup for most teams and that can be applied here. He's got a great supporting cast as Dragic (20+ PPG in playoffs) got hot when Spoelstra inserted him as a starter. And Adebayo has emerged as a double/double threat. Boston did get the best of the season series 2-1 but Miami won the last game August 4th in the bubble. Miami improved dramatically when the season resumed. Heat 39-18 ATS on 3+ days rest. We'll take the Heat.

Celtics/Raptors 9:00: Toronto is battling and two fine coaches going head to head; however, give the edge to the more subdued Stevens over the more the more animated Nurse. Boston has a bit more depth and playmakers and that should carry them here. 

Miami/Milwaukee 6:30: Unlikely for Milwaukee to continue their success with Giannis struggling with a sprained ankle. Miami had its chance to close out this series Sunday but let up when Giannis went down. No suck let up tonight. Butler won't allow his teammates to get relaxed and we'll look for the Heat to turn it up. Milwaukee has not played well when given points as their 10-25-1 ATS mark indicate, including 1-4 ATS in their last 5 dog roles. Heat 23-8 ATS off a SU loss and 4-0 ATS as a favorite. Heat the call. 

Bucks/Heat 3:30: I've been all over the Heat in every game of this series and I'm not jumping off now, especially with Giannis nursing a sprained ankle. Heat out hustling the Bucks in every facet of the game. Spoelstra will have his guys playing lights out. And Jimmy Butler- one of the fiercest competitors in the game- has the eye of the tiger mentality. It is infectious among his teammates. Underrated Adebayo doing an amazing job crashing the boards. And Dragic, ever since inserted as a starter, has been outstanding. Heat deliver.

Toronto/Boston 6:30: Toronto was fortunate to pull out Game 3 so they do have a breath of air here; however, Boston, still playing well and Coach Stevens should make the needed adjustments. Boston the call.

Rockets/Lakers 9:00: Lakers had a bit of time to heal but LeBron James nursing a groin, A.D. - finger, and Rondo (back spasms) will take the floor. Rockets coming off an emotional high after delivering last second win over OKC and must make a quick transition to get back in the hungry state of mind. Lakers should be the favorite but tighter game I project. Lakers haven't been a good favorite (4-9 ATS) and just 1-7-1 ATS in Conference Semifinals. Rockets 9-3 ATS last 12 in Los Angeles. And they're playing well in the bubble and surely won't be intimidated. 

Milwaukee/Miami 6:30: Spoelstra dialing up the right moves as I hinted on before this series started. Starting Dragic is paying dividends. He has been a key supporter for go-to-guy Jimmy Butler. And Adebayo continues to be impressive on the glass. We'll look for Miami to hang around again and, perhaps steal another game. 

Analysis to follow...

Analysis to follow...

Celtics/76ers 1:00: We'll look for Boston to close strong again. 76ers' Embiid trying to do it all; in the process, getting to the free throw line and racking up points; however, he's gassed late because of a lack of accuracy from him and his supporting cast. 76ers shot just 29% collectively in Game 3. Boston is well oiled on both ends of the floor with a rhythmic offensive flow and can clamp down late. Boston to sweep. 

Rockets/Thunder 6:00: No reason why OKC can't bounce back here. OKC did well vs Houston during the regular season at home and at Houston. Houston is hot in the bubble getting lots of guys involved in scoring. Donovan is a pretty good coach and should find an effective strategy to counter offensive minded D'Antoni. Keep in mind that OKC is 5-0 SU after being in a 2-0 Playoff deficit. We'll back OKC

Analysis to follow...

Analysis to follow...

Analysis to follow...

Portland/Los Angeles 9:00: As indicated in Game 1 analysis, Lakers in dire need of third option. Game 1 result indicated what I suggested as LeBron and A.D. did their part but the rest of the Lakers contributed to just 32% shooting. And clutch shots were definitely missing. On the other hand, Portland continued their hot play in the Bubble as Lillard lit it up and he's getting good help from an assortment of players. Lakers sorely miss Avery Bradley (out) on both ends of the floor. A healthy Rondo would help but he's not in game shape. Look for Portland to be competitive again as their rhythmic offense continues. 

Blazers/Lakers 9:00: Lakers did not look good in the bubble going 1-6 ATS down the stretch. Blazers virtually outscored opponents in their August run with little defense. As it is, Blazers have more options at the moment surrounding Lillard. Lakers miss defensive stopper and good ball handling Avery Bradley (out). Rondo (thumb) is in a recovery mode and if plays, maybe a step slow. LeBron and Davis still the best tandem on the floor but without that consistent third option, this series should be more competitive. Blazers are 46-22 ATS in this series. And remember, they gave the Lakers fits in LA at 19-7 ATS. On this neutral floor where the Blazers are hitting shots, we'll grab the points in Game 1. 

Mavericks/Clippers 9:00: Mavericks have a dangerous offense behind Porzingis and Doncic; however, defensively they're not where they need to be and, ultimately, their youth should cost them here. Clippers come in with more experience, a top tier multiple NBA Finals MVP Leonard and his prolific scoring mate - George. Clippers' HC Rivers should script a solid defensive plan to slow Mavericks down; in addition, Clippers have significant edge in rebounding. Clippers 4-0 ATS in this series and can't trust the Mavericks in the NBA Conference Quarterfinals where they're a money burning 3-8 ATS. LA the call in G1. 

Mavericks/Clippers 9:00: On the surface, these teams look to light up the scoreboard as they did in the first matchup August 3rd putting up 237 points; however, this series has gone just 2-3 O/U in its last 5 meetings and tonight pits two defensive minded coaches come playoff time. They've had time to scout strengths and weaknesses. Carlisle and Rivers should find ways to keep their opposing stars off balance. Mavericks are just 2-5 O/U on 3+ days rest. LA 2-8 O/U as a favorite. "Under" the call. 

Nuggets/Lakers 9:00: Lakers haven't played well since clinching #1 seed back on August 3rd. They've lost 3 straight and offensively out of rhythm. Meanwhile, Denver has won 3 of its last 4 and getting their usual great work out of Jokic and Murray; in addition, Porter Jr. has arrived as a consistent scorer for them. Denver the call. 

Spurs/Pelicans 3:05: Spurs haven't had much success in Louisiana; however, home court advantage minimal at best in these empty arenas. Spurs lead the Pelicans by a 1/2 a game and sport a 4-1 mark as a dog. Pelicans should have Zion Williamson back on the floor but not a meaningful advantage. Spurs have covered their last 2 road games. And I'll take getting points with Popovich over Gentry in crucial games any day of the week.

Suns/Heat 7:35: Suns off to explosive start in resuming season (4-0) but should face trouble here. Suns just 5-21 in the last 26 in this series including 1-6 in Miami. Sure, Booker and Ayton have the pick and roll popping but with Oubre and Baynes laboring with knee injuries, Miami's well disciplined defense will be more tuned in to what is forthcoming tonight. Forwards' Oubre and Baynes are underrated double-digit scorers in the Suns' offense and have 83 combined starts. Sure, Butler (foot) and Dragic (ankle) are out and that hurts; however, Heat have players making plays including sharp shooting Duncan Robinson (44.3% from 3 pt. range) and C Adebayo who is a nightmare in the low post on both sides of the floor. Heat 21-6 ATS off a SU loss and we'll gladly take points. 

Celtics/Raptors 9:05: Raptors' defensive intensity at its zenith now. The Celtics are coming off a mere shoot around against the defenseless Nets - 149-115. Tonight, no easy looks for Boston. Toronto is looking to clinch the #2 seed behind Milwaukee and, in the process, eliminate Boston for the #2 seed. Toronto's defense creating opportunities offensively and they're not even getting their best offensive output from Leonard and Lowry. Like the work Van Vleet is delivering on both sides of the court. Toronto is 41-17-1 ATS on 1 day rest. Celtics have trouble in Toronto at 1-8 ATS. Toronto the call. 

Oklahoma City/Los Angeles Lakers 6:35: We'll look for OKC to deliver here. The Thunder, in the 6th seeding, have an opportunity to move as high as #4 and will vie for it. Lakers, after locking up the #1 seed Monday with a win over Utah, should take its foot off the pedal to get their superstars limited time on the floor with more rest. Sure, Schroder is out but Gilgeous-Alexander works well in the backcourt with Chris Paul. Thunder 7-1 ATS in their last 8 road tilts and 13-6 ATS vs the Lakers. Thunder the call. 

Kansas State/TCU 9:30: Both of these teams struggle mightily on the offensive end of the floor. You'll find both teams at the bottom of the Big 12 in scoring; on the other hand, defensively is where each team is respectable limiting opposition to roughly 65 PPG. And remember, these teams face some pretty good offensive opposition in the league, including Baylor and Kansas. However, when they face each other, it's usually an ugly defensive battle. Over their last 7 matchups, the average scoring output was 123.3 PPG with a range of 116 to 131. There was an OT game that reached 130 included. With limited offensive weaponry, on a neutral floor in tournament basketball, we'll stay "under". 

Kansas State/TCU 9:30: Each team has it's go to guy. TCU has Desmond Bane while the Wildcats have Xavier Sneed. Outside of them, limited supporting cast; however, F Sneed does have a reliable PG in Diarra who averages 13.3 PPG and dishes out 4.2 APG. Furthermore, 6'9" Mawien does a nice job defensively and attacks the boards. TCU swept the season series in two closely contested games. K State has beaten TCU two years straight in the Big 12 tourney and the stage is set for the third. K State the call. 

Mia Fla/Clemson Noon: Bettors not showing any love to Miami Florida with Lykes (eye) most likely not playing. I'm going to show them love though. Keep in mind, Jim Larranaga is an awesome tournament coach (Final 4 with George Mason back in 2006) and he guided his boys to a win in at least on tournament games in 7 of his 8 seasons. Hurricanes has freshman guard Wong step in and fill the void for Lykes by adding 18 points and 9 rebounds in win over Syracuse. 'Canes have good on court leadership with G Vasiljevic too. As for Clemson, they fell flat on their face down the stretch knowing they had to finish season with 2 wins to be in line for an at large bid; instead, they got beat at Virginia Tech and at home to lightweight Georgia Tech, which completed the season sweep. Miami Florida won this meeting Dec 31st 73-68 in OT at Clemson. They're 3-1 ATS in this series and I'm taking the points with the Hurricanes. 

Analysis to follow...

Analysis to follow...

Delaware/C of C 2:30: College of Charleston has virtually owned this series with a 5-1 SU/6-0 ATS ledger. The Cougars swept the regular season series but should have trouble here. The Blue Hens, 18-10-1 ATS,  have their best team assembled in years and sport a well balanced offense, solid free throw shooting team (76.2%), and respectable on the defensive boards; moreover, Delaware sports a 3-1 SU mark on a neutral floor and we'll look for them to advance to the next round. 

Lafayette/Colgate 2:00: Lafayette has been undervalued for most of the year as its 18-10-1 ATS mark indicates. They've competed well vs the Patriot League best including sweeping this regular season series; as a matter of fact, they've covered 4 straight in this series. And despite not having their best scorer - Jaworski (knee) since February 12th, they've found ways to win. They still have a good offensive base in Stephens, Jarrett and O'Boyle. Cherry is getting more minutes and making the best of it. We'll look for the Leopards to remain competitive today. Surely they're not intimidated going into Cotterell Court - a venue with only 1,750 seats. We'll take the double digits. 

Oklahoma State/Texas 4:00: Lots of bettors now on the Texas bandwagon after the Longhorns reeled off 5 straight wins and covers. That concerns me as the value is deteriorating a bit. Nevertheless, I feel Coach Smart can get them by the Cowboys here. Longhorns should be able to lock down the offensively challenged Cowboys which struggle on the road. They were blown out by Oklahoma, West Virginia and Kansas as a traveler. We'll look for the Longhorns roll to continue here. 

Louisville/Virginia 4:00: Louisville came on like gangbusters earlier in the year, eventually reaching #1 but leveled off. They worked Virginia February 8th 80-73 in Louisville. But the Cardinals have shown some vulnerability on the road and that's where they should falter here. Cardinals have come up empty in their last 5 trips to Virginia. The Cavaliers have gradually grown into a productive team as Bennett has them on a 7-0 run. They're not pretty in their wins but grinding them out with that #1 defense. And someone eventually steps up when needed. Lately it was F Jay Huff. We'll look for the Cavaliers to find a way for sweet revenge tonight. 

Kansas/Texas Tech 2:00: Two high quality coaches - Self and Beard - going head to head today. I'll lay my money on Beard and the Red Raiders which are getting a few buckets at home. TT has covered 4 of the last 6 in this series and 2 of 3 at Texas Tech, including last year's 91-62 blowout. And the Red Raiders need this one more for NCAA Tournament seeding than Kansas does. Tech gave Kansas all they could handle earlier this year in a highly contested 78-75 loss in Kansas. Sure, Kansas is playing great on the road and Azubuike is on a tear; however, a bit overvalued down the stretch- failing to cover their last 2 games. Tech is on an 0-3 SU slide and I expect them to come out swinging here. Remember, last time Tech was on an 0-3 SU slide, they defeated then #1 Louisville December 10th. Look for Beard to have his men well prepared for this one. 

Baylor/West Virginia 1:00: Bears in every game this year and have the ability to close. West Virginia, on the other hand, continues to have problems shooting with little perimeter game and trouble closing out games with poor free throw shooting. Not going to cut it against the stout defense of the Bears. And with G-F Vital and F Clark (out vs Texas Tech) back for this one, Bears should sweep this series. 

Villanova/Georgetown Noon: Georgetown has fallen on bad times with key injuries - McClung and Yurtseven. Blair is trying to run the show and HC Ewing doesn't have enough coachable talent to finish games. Look for the Wildcats to run away with this one again. Villanova is heating up and playing very well on the road (4-0 SU/ATS run). 'Cats blew out Georgetown 80-66 back on January 11th and that was with leading scorer McClung playing. 'Cats good at taking away top threat and wearing down a team. They got 5 players averaging double digits including Bey who went off for 33 in the first matchup. Villanova the call. 

Siena/Monmouth 7:00: Monmouth turning in a solid season, positioned as the #3 seed of the Metro Atlantic. They gave the class of the Metro - Siena - all they could handle back on January 3rd. Despite the 75-72 loss, the Hawks easily covered as 6' point dogs. And as a matter of fact, they've gone 4-1 SU / 4-0-1 ATS in this series. Don't write off Deion Hammond and company on this floor where they're 11-1 SU! 

Yale/Dartmouth 7:00: A total mismatch. Yale is an NCAA Tournament able team and should continue to own this series. The Bulldogs have covered 6 straight against Dart including double digit victories in the last four at Dartmouth. Dart will once again have trouble trading points; after all, they score 11 PPG fewer than the Bulldogs. Look for Yale, which plays well on Fridays, sweep this series with another decisive win.

Navy/Boston University 7:00: Navy has held their own against the class of the Patriot League. The Midshipmen are a sweet 12-3 ATS vs teams above .500; moreover, they're 10-4 ATS on the road vs teams above .500 at home. Boston U blasted Navy on February 15th 77-54 avenging an OT home loss. Yes, the Midshipmen upset the Terriers at Case Gym back on January 22nd. And Boston's home court isn't much of an advantage in this series. Navy has gone 3-0 SU/ATS in the last 3 at Case Gym ("the roof"). We'll back Cam Davis and company here. 

Nebraska/Michigan 6:30: From a media standpoint, this one could be over by halftime; however, Nebraska still working hard under Hoiberg despite an 0-14 SU slide. Sure, 'Huskers never beat Michigan in Ann Arbor and catching the most likely NCAA Tourney bound Wolves off an 0-2 slide. However, the Wolves have bigger fish to fry with Maryland on deck and the conference tourneys coming up. Besides, Michigan already blew out Nebraska last year at home and beat them handily this season at Nebraska 79-68. Nebraska does sport a 7-3 ATS mark on the road including competitive covered losses at Rutgers (72-75), Illinois (59-71 as a 14 point dog), and at ranked MD (70-72 as an 18 point dog). Nebraska has some shooters in Cheatham and Burke Jr. They need to cut back on turnovers and make some foul shots. We'll look for them to be competitive tonight.  

St. Louis/George Mason 7:00: Huge win for Billikens at Rhode Island. Don't believe a let down happens here. St. Louis sports a 5-1 ATS mark vs GMU and 3-1 ATS at GMU. GMU shot out of the gate strong early in the year (11-1) only to stumble bad down the stretch. They're currently on a 1-4 SU slide. They're not a good offensive team (67.2 PPG) and do not scare anyone on the perimeter (30.1% ranked 319th in nation). St. Louis is well balanced on both ends of the floor now and should continue their winning momentum as they enter conference tourney. 

LSU/Arkansas 7:00: Arkansas is a major disappointment and will have to win the SEC Tournament to get to the NCAAs. Sure, the Hogs were ever so close to winning games at home to South Carolina, Auburn and Mississippi State but were unable to finish down the stretch. Tonight, they face a very good offensive team in LSU that can trade buckets with the best of them. LSU is playing for a possible double bye in the SEC Tourney with a win here. The Tigers have a confident team well oiled offense with Mays, Days, Watford and Smart. Throw in Williams off the bench and when LSU is on, they're tough to beat. Sure, Arkansas can defend but they struggle on the boards and that should once again hurt them against a very good rebounding team in LSU. We'll look for LSU to get over the hump and find a way to cover consecutive games here.  

Xavier/Providence 6:30: Kind of surprised this "total" is set this low. The last four games in this series played at Providence have averaged 142.5 points with a range of 136 to 153. You throw out the 153 (high) and you still have a significantly higher number in 139 as an average. Xavier most likely won't have one of their solid defenders tonight - Scruggs, which adds some point value. "Over" the call. 

Michigan State/Penn State 7:00: Hard to fade Izzo in March let alone in a revenge mode with stakes on the line in positioning for Big 10 Tourney. Penn State won 2/4/20 75-70 at Michigan State when Penn State was red hot; however, Penn State has now cooled down (1-3 ATS slide) while #17 Michigan State has won 2 straight over ranked opponents. Winston and Tillman are now getting good support from freshmen Hall and Watts. We'll grab the hot Spartans.

Miss State/S. Carolina 6:30: I see a few more points of value with the "over" here. Both teams are "over" heavy for the season and this series has gone 4-1 O/U over the last 5 meetings. SC HC Martin misses Minaya (thumb) who not only did some good things on the wing offensively but was a very good defender. Miss State has an efficient offense this season under Howland; however, defensively, on the road the Bulldogs have given up 83 (Ole Miss), 77 (Arkansas) and 87 to Texas A&M which incidentally ranks at the bottom of the SEC in scoring. We'll look for a higher scoring game here. 

NC State/Duke 7:00: NC State has covered this one 6 straight times including February 19th 88-66 blowout at NC State. NC State is coming off a lackluster win at home vs Pitt a part of a 1-4 ATS slide. Meanwhile, Duke is coming off its second straight loss, first at Wake Forest in OT and then Saturday at Virginia. Look for Coach K to have his men play harder than ever as the Blue Devils get back on their home floor at Cameron. NC State lost their last two road games to ACC lightweight Boston College and a struggling North Carolina. Duke's Vernon Carey Jr. and Tre Jones overdue to go off tonight. Duke should deliver easily. 

Xavier/Georgetown 2:00: Xavier occasionally shows flashes of brilliance against quality conference opponents - as exhibited at Seton Hall February 1st, yet also disappoints - like at home vs Villanova on February 22nd. Today, we'll look for a season sweep of this series as the Musketeers picking up their game (6-1 ATS). They're also playing a shell of a Georgetown team that's running out of bodies as top two scorers McClung (foot) and Yurtseven (ankle) saw limited practice time Friday. Yurtseven could possibly go but McClung still noticeably off his stride. Xavier is 11-3 SU in this series and Ewing is not that good of a coach to guide his young personnel to victory. The Hoyas are on an 0-3 SU slide and will need a huge run in the Big East Tourney to get to the dance. Xavier has their site at getting an at large big with a season sweep here and another conference win either against Providence or Butler. We'll go with Xavier here. 

Indiana/Illinois 2:00: I do realize Indiana has beaten Illinois 7 of the last 8 meetings and haven't lost to Illinois since 1/24/18; then again, this isn't the same Illinois team that's been a Big 10 punching bag the last few years. Illinois in in a 4 way tie for 2nd place in the conference and has its site on a 20 win season and a double-bye in the conference tourney with a win here. Illinois' mojo is their defense which allows 64.7 PPG (54th in nation), creates turnovers into transition buckets. Griffin and Dosunmu give them some offensive firepower. Indiana, on the other hand, is not faring on the road well against the higher tier Big 10 teams; as a matter of fact, they've got punched out at Penn State by 15, beaten at OSU by 9, blasted at Michigan by 24 and lost by 8 at Purdue. Illinois is a higher tier Big 10 team and hungry for some serious revenge and deliver the 20 and double-bye. We'll lay the number with them. 

South Carolina/Alabama 8:30: SC has not had success in Alabama but the door is open for them to succeed tonight;after all, Alabama will most likely be without their best player - Petty Jr. SC seeking to avenge its earlier season home loss and we'll look for Martin's bunch to deliver the goods tonight.

Baylor/TCU 2:00: TCU should be unable to trade buckets effectively with Baylor. Baylor buried TCU earlier this season and the 7-1 ATS road savvy Bears should bury them here too. Baylor defense allows just 38.9% from the floor (16th nationally) will be able to choke out the poor shooting Horned Frogs which score an average of 65.3 PPG (315th). Moreover, TCU is very thin at guard with Farabello on the rack and Nembhard ailing. Baylor the call. 

Texas/Texas Tech Noon: Looks like trouble for the Longhorns with only eight scholarship players available; however, truth be told, Longhorns are playing their best basketball now without Sims, Febres and Liddell. And Heper was out vs WV and we know what happened there. Texas lost the first of this series 62-57 on February 8th and would boost their NCAA Tournament resume significantly if they can pull off a win in Lubbock for the first time since 2015. Tall task considering TT is coming off a bad loss to Oklahoma and the Red Raiders can lock down defensively. Nevertheless, Texas is passing and shooting (51.1% last 3 games) well. We'll look for them to be competitive here as a double digit dog. 

Army/Colgate Noon: Army on a nice 7-3 ATS run and looking to avenge it's closely contested earlier season home loss to the Raiders. Colgate showed strength earlier in the year but sliding a bit on a 1-3 ATS fall. They're coming off a loss to conference bottom feeder Bucknell. Army's Tommy Funk and sidekick Matt Wilson lead a pretty good offense for the Black Knights; as a matter of fact, Army is shooting a strong 47.5% from the floor (20th nationally) and that bodes well against a Colgate defense allowing 43.4% from the floor (213th). When Army scores more than 62, they're 15-6. We'll grab the double digits with the vengeful Army squad.

Harvard/Columbia 7:00: On paper, this matchup considerably favors the Crimson. They favor in virtually every statistical offensive and defensive category. As you know, games aren't played on paper and for some strange reason, the Lions come alive in this rivalry regardless of how dominant Harvard is that given year. Columbia, beaten in the first matchup this season 77-73 in OT at Harvard as a 14' point dog. That was the third straight OT game in this series. Moreover, Columbia is 4-0 ATS at home vs Harvard. Sure, Harvard is 18-7 SU this season but a money burning 9-15 ATS. They've failed to cover in 8 of their last 10 games. And while Harvard has a legitimate shot at vying for an Ivy League Championship, they have a tendency to play down to their competition and barely win these games. We'll look for Columbia to hang tough tonight again in this series. 

Delaware/College of Charleston 6:00: Charleston won the first matchup back on December 30th 75-63, part of a 5-0 SU/ATS run in the series; however, Delaware is a better team this season as the season progresses. The Blue Hens are 20-9 SU in the CAA and possess three good shooters in Darling, Mutts and Allen. They're more efficient offensively than the Cougars shooting 48.1% and 35.6% perimeter compared to the 43.9% and 33.6% for COFC; moreover, they're a bit better on the boards. Cougars have lost 4 straight and playing into revenge here. I like the Blue Hens 7-2 ATS road dog mark and their chances here. We'll look for Allen (2nd leading scorer held to just 3 points in loss to Hofstra) to be more of a contributor here as the Blue Hens deliver.

Analysis to follow...

Georgia/South Carolina 6:30: South Carolina has won and covered 6 of the last 7 in this series including choking out the Bulldogs 75-59 at Georgia on February 12th. South Carolina HC Martin not happy with his men, who are now on the bubble after losing two straight. You can rest assured hot head Martin will have his guys hustling to the highest degree on their home floor tonight. Gamecocks take pride in defense and control the #20 defense in terms of FG% at 38.9%. Georgia has a good backcourt with Edwards and Harris but not convinced they can rally this Georgia team, that's on a 1-4 ATS slide, to win here. Gamecocks the call. 

Texas Tech/Oklahoma 9:00pm: This series has gone "under" in 4 of the last 5 meetings including the earlier season win by TT. It's that time of year when defenses have to lock in and Chris Beard is one of the great defensive minded coaches who will have his men prepared to handle the Sooners' sharp shooters (Doolittle, Manek, Reaves). Oklahoma's HC Kruger no slouch on the defensive side either but personnel has dictated his team's play the last few seasons - more on the offensive; however, Tech not a great shooting team and will need to lock down, create turnovers with transition buckets. Both teams on the plus side in turnover margin and this should be another defensive battle on this neutral floor (Oklahoma City Thunder's floor). "Under' the call. 

West Virginia/Texas 7:00: West Virginia's high intensity full court press defense, which dominated early in the season, once again affecting shooters' legs late in the season. They're offense has been atrocious, especially on the road. WV has lost four straight conference road tilts and should struggle again here. Texas is looking to avenge its 97-59 blowout loss at WV January 20th. Texas is now kicking it gear off two straight big wins including 70-59 Saturday at Kansas State. Texas is 3-1 SU at home vs WV under HC Smart. The Mounties, which blew out (32 points!) another conference foe - TCU - at home earlier in the season, ended up losing in OT to them Saturday. WV is on a 1-4 ATS slide. They're really struggling from the perimeter at 29% (340th nationally) and should be clanking them tonight; after all, Texas defense stepping up their game late in season. Longhorns the call. 

Loyola-MD/Lafayette 2:00: Lafayette having a great season including beating much of the class of the Patriot League including American, Colgate and, most recently Boston U! And they beat Boston U without their top scorer Jaworski (17.5 PPG) who went down with a season ending knee injury on the 15th. Fortunately, E.J. Stephens stepped up as the go to guy dropping 18 and 27 in the last 2 games, respectively. Lafayette sports a 17-7-1 ATS mark this season and one of my go-to plays. The Leopards have covered 4 straight in this series including 17 and 15 point blowout wins on this floor. Loyola-MD has not shown the road strength vs top tier teams on the road and because of defensive lapses, most likely will find trouble stopping the efficient offense of Lafayette. 

Wichita State/Cincinnati 1:00: Shockers got a wake up call at Houston on February 9th. They were blasted 76-43. Since then, they've reeled off 3 straight wins and locking down defensively. Shockers looking to avenge their 80-79 loss at home earlier this season when Cumberland hit a 3 with 3.5 seconds left. Cincy is on an 0-4 ATS slide capped with an OT home loss to UCF on the 19th. Shockers have covered 3 straight at Cincinnati and we'll grab the points here. 

Navy/Army 1:30: These teams with identical records but heading in opposite directions. Navy is currently on a 1-5 SU/ATS slide; meanwhile, Army on a nice 7-2 ATS tear. The Cadets are coming off a competitive loss and cover at Loyola-MD and should complete the season sweep at home today. Army has shown its ability to play strong against the class of the Patriot League including a really good Lafayette team the Cadets beat soundly twice this season. We'll look for Tommy Funk and company to continue to roll with a win and cover here. 

Kansas/Baylor Noon: No question, Baylor a dangerous team on a 23-0 run including that 67-55 blowout win at Kansas on January 11th. In that game, Kansas leading scorers Azubuike and Dotson were shut down and neither got to the foul line once! That's an unlikely scenario tonight. Kansas has gone 7-0 SU/ATS on the road and Azubuike and Dotson are on their game. Self will make it a priority for them to attack the rim. Kansas has won 3 of the last 4 in Waco and we'll look for sweet revenge here. 

Virginia/Pittsburgh Noon: Virginia starting to turn up its game on a 3-0 SU/2-1 ATS run. They're coming off a season high 78 point output and should continue their offensive fireworks vs a Pitt defense ranking last in the ACC in FG% allowed at 51.9%. Pitt is also weak in defensive rebounding. Offensively, the Panthers aren't good either - struggling in virtually every category; consequently, the #1 defense in the nation (52.6 PPG allowed) should continue to make life miserable for the Panthers. Pitt is currently on an 0-3 S/U/ATS slide. With the Cavaliers' Clark and Key turning up their game, and Woldetensae adding to the fire since he's been inserted in the starting lineup, we'll look for Bennett's boys to deliver; after all, they've won this series 11 of the last 12 and 4 of the last 5 in Pittsburgh.  

Marquette/Providence Noon: Providence, under HC Cooley, is a team that will get you excited enough to believe they're a legitimate force to be reckoned with and then, almost just as quickly, have you fall flat on your face. Such be the case here. Providence is riding a sweet 2-0 SU/ATS run yet has difficulty covering three straight. Marquette, on the other hand, is riding a 7-2 ATS run. Sure, Marquette is 0-2 SU 1-1 ATS in their last 2 heavily contested battles but should do well here. The Golden Eagles are looking to avenge their 81-80 OT loss at home back on January 7th. Marquette has covered in its last 2 trips to providence and should deliver here. The 16-9 ATS Golden Eagles have been a value play all season now that their defensive game has improved dramatically from a season ago. And that offense still rocks behind Markus Howard (26.7 PPG). Marquette the call. 

VCU/St. Louis 9:00: Billikens play hard defense, create turnovers and efficient offensively enough to capitalize. Remember, these guys covered easily against the class of the league - Dayton - both times this season. VCU offers a challenge for they've played well at this venue before and they play hard; however, not sturdy on the road this season and have been overvalued most of the year as their 9-17 ATS mark indicates. They're on an 0-3 slide and it won't be easy against a fired up Billikens team coming off a tough loss to U Mass. We'll give the edge to Goodwin and company here. 

Northeastern/Delaware 7:00: Delaware sits 2 games behind Hofstra for the lead in the CAA. The Blue Hens, which have 5 guys averaging double-digits in scoring, have rattled off wins in 7 of their last 8 conference tilts. For most of the season, they've been efficient offensively at 48% (14th nationally) and respectable defensively. They're coming off a loss at W&M last Saturday. Tonight, we get them as a dog and they've flourished in that roll at 8-2 ATS. NE, on the other hand, has struggled after achieving success with an 0-4 ATS mark off an ATS win. Delaware won at NE earlier this season and we're going to look for Darling and company to complete the season sweep tonight.