The Nevada Wolf Pack (6-2) are set to face the Loyola Marymount Lions (3-4) on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at Gersten Pavilion in Los Angeles, California, with tip-off scheduled for 9:00 PM EST. The Wolf Pack have demonstrated a strong start to the season, averaging 86.6 points per game while allowing 65.4 points per game, resulting in a +21.2 scoring margin. They have been effective on the boards, averaging 23.1 defensive rebounds per game, with forward Nick Davidson leading the team at 6.0 rebounds per game. The Lions have faced challenges early in the season, averaging 80 points per game and conceding 68.4 points per game, leading to a +11.6 scoring margin. They have been proficient from beyond the arc, averaging 8.4 made three-pointers per game, which could be a critical factor against Nevada's perimeter defense. Nevada is led by guard Kobe Sanders, averaging 16.4 points and 3.5 rebounds per game, Sanders is a pivotal component of Nevada's offensive strategy. Loyola Marymount's Will Johnston (Guard) is leading the team with 14.9 points per game and averaging 2.9 rebounds, Johnston is a key playmaker for the Lions. Nevada averages 86.6 points per game, while Loyola Marymount averages 80 points per game. In their last meeting on December 2, 2023, Nevada secured a 73-59 victory over Loyola Marymount, with Jarod Lucas leading the Wolf Pack with 20 points. Nevada aims to continue its strong start by leveraging its offensive depth and rebounding prowess. Nevada has too much for this Loyola squad, especially on defense. I'll lay the points late on Saturday with Nevada.

 The Ohio State Buckeyes (5-3, 0-1 Big Ten) are set to host the Rutgers Scarlet Knights (5-3, 0-0 Big Ten) on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at Value City Arena in Columbus, Ohio, with tip-off at 12:00 PM ET. Ohio State is under first-year head coach Jake Diebler, the Buckeyes have averaged 82.5 points per game while allowing 66.2 points per game, resulting in a +16.2 scoring margin. The Scarlet Knights, led by head coach Steve Pikiell, have showcased a balanced attack, with key contributions from freshmen Ace Bailey and Dylan Harper. Ohio State is led by guard Bruce Thornton who is averaging 15.5 points and 5.8 assists per game. The Scarlet Knights are led by forward Devin Royal who is leading the team with 7.6 rebounds per game, Royal also contributes 12.3 points per game. Ohio State: The Buckeyes are looking to rebound from an 83-59 loss to Maryland, aiming to improve their conference record. The Scarlet Knights seek to bounce back after a narrow 81-77 defeat to Texas A&M, focusing on tightening their defense. Ohio State averages 82.5 points per game, while Rutgers' scoring average is slightly lower. Ohio State averages 34.1 rebounds per game, with Devin Royal leading at 7.6 rebounds per game. In their last meeting on January 3, 2024, Ohio State edged out Rutgers with a 76-72 victory. This matchup marks the beginning of Big Ten play for both teams. Ohio State aims to leverage its home-court advantage and offensive depth here today. Lay the points with Ohio State.

On Saturday, December 7, 2024, the Boston College Eagles (6-3) will face the Wake Forest Demon Deacons (7-3) at Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, marking the commencement of Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) play for both teams. The Eagles are seeking to rebound from a 73-51 home loss to South Carolina, where they struggled offensively, shooting 33.3% from the field and 12.5% (2-for-16) from beyond the arc. Similarly, the Demon Deacons aim to recover from a 57-44 defeat at No. 22 Texas A&M, a game in which they shot 28.3% from the field and managed only 18 points in the second half. Boston College is led by guard Donald Hand Jr. with an average of 13.7 points per game, Hand Jr. is pivotal to the Eagles' offensive efforts. Wake Forest guard Hunter Sallis is the team's leading scorer, averaging 17 points per game, Sallis contributed 19 points in the recent loss to Texas A&M. Boston College averages 70.3 ppg and 43.3 rebounds per games. Meanwhile, Wake Forest averages just 66.9 ppg and 37.9 boards. In their sole meeting last season, Wake Forest emerged victorious with an 84-78 win at Boston College. Hunter Sallis and Cameron Hildreth combined for 39 points in that game. BC looks the better team thus far and getting this many points today is hard to pass up. Take Boston College.

The Delaware Blue Hens will face the Duquesne Dukes on Friday at UPMC Cooper Fieldhouse in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Delaware has a 5-3 overall record, and is performing well in the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA). The Duquesne Dukes are just 1-7 overall and struggling in the Atlantic 10 Conference (A-10). The Blue Hens are on a three-game winning streak, including a recent 100-94 victory over Yale. The Dukes have lost four of their last five games, with their sole win being a 67-54 triumph over Old Dominion. Delaware's John Camden leads the team, averaging 18.7 points per game. Duquesne's Jake DiMichele is the top scorer, averaging 12.0 points per game. Even though Duquesne has home court here, I like the visitors in this one. Play Delaware.

 Extra board game here on Thurdsay has the Northwestern State Demons facing the Incarnate Word Cardinals at the Alice P. McDermott Convocation Center in San Antonio, Texas. Northwestern State is 2-5 overall record. Incarnate Word is 4-3 overall record, the Cardinals have shown promise early in the season. The Demons are coming off a loss to LSU, 53-77 on Nov 29. Incarnate Word secured a victory in their last game with a 86-75 win at Western Illinois. In their most recent encounter on February 17, 2024, Northwestern State defeated Incarnate Word with a score of 81-61. Northwestern State's Cliff Davis leads the Demons, averaging 13.7 points per game. Incarnate Word's Shon Robinson is a pivotal player for the Cardinals, contributing significantly on both ends of the court. Home court here today in this Southland Conference clash. I like the host in this one laying around 4 points. Play Incarnate Word.

The Youngstown State Penguins (3-5) will face the Robert Morris Colonials (6-3) on Wednesday, at the UPMC Events Center in Moon Township, Pennsylvania. This Horizon League matchup features two teams aiming to strengthen their conference standings. The Penguins have encountered challenges on the road, holding a 1-3 away record. They recently achieved a commanding 128-60 victory over Bethany (WV) Bison, with forward Gabe Dynes leading the team with 23 points. The Colonials boast a perfect 5-0 home record. They average 71.6 points per game and have a positive point differential of 3.9. In their latest outing, Robert Morris fell to Ohio University 84-68, with guard Josh Omojafo contributing 15 points. Youngstown is led by forward Gabe Dynes who is emerging as a significant offensive force, Dynes scored 23 points in the recent win over Bethany. Robert Morris leading scorer is guard Josh Omojafo who tallied 15 points against Ohio University. Even though Robert Morris has the better record I like their players and bench better here tonight. I'll take the few points at home with the Penguins.

The Michigan Wolverines (6-1) will face the Wisconsin Badgers (8-0) on Tuesday at the Kohl Center in Madison, Wisconsin. This game marks the Big Ten opener for both teams, each seeking to establish early conference dominance, each having had a fine non-conference schedule. Under new head coach Dusty May, Michigan has started the season strong with a 6-1 record. Their offense averages 81.3 points per game, while the defense allows 61.3 points per game. Notable performances include a decisive 78-53 victory over No. 22 Xavier, where forward Danny Wolf scored a season-high 20 points and grabbed 14 rebounds. The Badgers have been impressive, maintaining an undefeated 8-0 record. They have secured significant wins against teams like Arizona, UCF, and Pittsburgh, contributing to their rise in national rankings. Their defense has been particularly strong, holding opponents to an average of 60.5 points per game. Michigan forward is averaging 15.2 points and 8.6 rebounds per game, Wolf has been a consistent contributor on both ends of the court. Wisconsin guard John Tonje is leading the team in scoring, Tonje recently posted a 22-point game, showcasing his offensive capabilities. I like the Wisconsin defense to dominate this contest today. With the Badgers at home, undefeated and with that excellent defense, I'll take them tonight. Play Wisconsin.

The Washington State Cougars (6-2) will face the Nevada Wolf Pack (5-1) on Monday at the Lawlor Events Center in Reno, Nevada. This non-conference matchup features two teams aiming to bolster their early-season records. The Cougars have started the season strong, achieving a 6-2 record. They have demonstrated offensive prowess, averaging 83 points per game. However, they recently faced a setback with a 77-60 loss to SMU, indicating potential vulnerabilities on defense. The Wolf Pack holds a 5-1 record, showcasing a balanced team performance. They are undefeated at home with a 4-0 record and have outscored opponents by an average of 13.6 points per game. In their recent game, Nevada secured a 90-78 victory over Oklahoma State, with guard Kobe Sanders leading the team with 27 points. Nevada guard Kobe Sanders is a key offensive contributor, averaging 15.2 points per game, including a standout 27-point performance against Oklahoma State. Washington State forward Nick Davidson leads the team with 18.0 points and 8.0 rebounds per game, shooting an impressive 81.1% from three-point range. While Nevada is tough at home, this is way too many point to lay to a very good Washington State team. I'll take the visitors here on Monday. Play Washington State.

The Oakland Golden Grizzlies (1-4) are set to face the Toledo Rockets (3-1) on Saturday at Savage Arena in Toledo, Ohio. Oakland has struggled with just one win while Toledo can improve to a nifty 4-1 on the season. Oakland began the season with a victory over Defiance College but has since encountered challenges, including losses to Boise State, Illinois, Kansas, and Eastern Michigan. Their offense has struggled, averaging 57.0 points per game, while the defense has allowed 80.2 points per game. Notably, they faced a 78-57 defeat against top-ranked Kansas, where Allen David Mukeba led the team with 19 points. The Rockets have demonstrated a strong start, securing wins against Marshall, Wright State, and Detroit Mercy, with a sole loss to Troy. Their offense has been prolific, averaging 83.0 points per game, while the defense has conceded 77.0 points per game. Toledo has historically performed well against Oakland, leading the series 13-7 and winning six of the last seven meetings. The Rockets have the better offense and that will guide them here today as Oakland has struggled with scoring. I don't mind laying these points to a club that struggles to score points. Play Toledo.

The Delaware Fightin' Blue Hens (2-3) are set to face the Rider Broncs (4-2) on Saturday at Alumni Gymnasium in Lawrenceville, New Jersey. Delaware has experienced a mixed start to the season. They secured a notable 100-94 victory over Yale, where John Camden scored 30 points. However, they have also faced close losses, such as an 85-84 defeat to Bryant. Their offense has shown potential, but defensive consistency remains a concern. Rider has demonstrated resilience with a 4-2 record. They achieved wins against San Diego (68-67) and Bucknell (57-53), showcasing their ability to perform in tight games. Their losses include a significant 85-50 defeat to UCLA, indicating challenges against higher-tier opponents. The Broncs have been competitive, with a balanced approach on both ends of the court. Delaware guard Camden has been a standout performer, notably scoring 30 points in the win over Yale. His offensive contributions are vital for Delaware's success. Rider guard Allen Powell has been a consistent offensive threat, leading the team in scoring in multiple games. This game looks to pit the Delaware offense against a balanced Rider team. The Hens can get back to the .500 mark here today while Rider can improve to 5-2. With home court and the better record, I look for Rider to leave with the win today. Play Rider.

 The James Madison Dukes (4-3) are set to host the George Mason Patriots (4-3) on Friday, at the Atlantic Union Bank Center in Harrisonburg, Virginia. Both teams have had comparable starts to their seasons, making this matchup a compelling contest. The Dukes have experienced a mixed start, with notable victories against Ohio (88-78) and UIC (99-81). However, they have faced setbacks against Norfolk State (69-83) and UC San Diego (67-73). Their offense averages 79.0 points per game, while the defense allows 70.0 points per game. The Patriots also hold a 4-3 record, with significant wins over North Carolina Central (75-58) and Stony Brook (94-56). They have encountered challenges against Marquette (63-82) and East Carolina (77-78 in double overtime). The team averages 81.6 points per game and concedes 64.9 points per game. Both teams looks pretty evenly matched here today. Madison is at home and that should tilt the board in their favor. Take James Madison. 

The Eastern Illinois Panthers (1-5) are set to host the Northern Illinois Huskies (2-3) on Friday at Lantz Arena in Charleston, Illinois. The Panthers have faced a challenging start to the season, holding a 1-5 record. Their sole victory came against Earlham College, a non-Division I opponent. Eastern Illinois has struggled against higher-tier teams, including a recent 81-53 loss to Valparaiso, where Nakyel Shelton led the team with 20 points. The Huskies enter the game with a 2-3 record. They secured a dominant 105-37 win over Holy Cross College (Ind.) but have encountered difficulties against stronger competition, such as an 80-65 loss to Georgia Southern. Their recent 69-46 defeat to Valparaiso indicates areas needing improvement. E.Illinois guard Nakyel Shelton has been a consistent offensive contributor, leading the team with 20 points in the recent game against Valparaiso. Northern Illinois guard Keshawn Williams has demonstrated the ability to create shots and effectively lead the Huskies' offense. Both teams have struggled against better opponents this season. However, Eastern Illinois looks the better of the two teams and I'll lay the few points wit them here today. Play Eastern Illinois.

The Bowling Green Falcons (2-3) are set to face the Weber State Wildcats (2-4) on Friday, in a neutral-site game at Mullett Arena in Tempe, Arizona. The Falcons have experienced a mixed start to the season. After a commanding 107-43 victory over Taylor University, they faced challenges against stronger opponents, including a 72-86 loss to Michigan State and a 67-85 defeat at Bellarmine. The Wildcats opened the season with a dominant 118-35 win over Northwest Indian College but have struggled since, enduring a four-game losing streak. Their recent 68-73 overtime loss to Hawaii indicates resilience, yet closing out games remains an issue. This matchup features two teams seeking to establish consistency. Bowling Green's offensive capabilities will be tested against Weber State's defense, which has shown vulnerability in recent games. Weber State's big wwin to start the season was against a very weak opponent. Now they are laying some points to a just as good Bowling Green team on a neutral courtl. I don't think so. I'll take the dog here in Bowling Green.

The UNLV Runnin' Rebels (4-1) are set to face the Mississippi State Bulldogs (5-0) on Thursday in the Arizona Tip-Off event held in Tempe, Arizona. Both teams have demonstrated strong starts to their seasons, making this matchup a compelling early test for each program. UNLV has opened the season with a 4-1 record, showcasing a balanced offensive attack and a resilient defense. Their only loss came against Memphis, a competitive game that ended 80-74. Notable victories include a 93-79 win over Alabama State and an 82-68 triumph over Pepperdine. The Rebels are averaging 83.0 points per game while allowing 74.0 points per game. The Bulldogs have started the season undefeated at 5-0, displaying a robust defense that has been pivotal in their success. They have held opponents to an average of 60.0 points per game while scoring 80.0 points per game themselves. Key victories include a 95-60 win over West Georgia and a 73-57 victory against Northwestern State. Gilbert has been instrumental in orchestrating the Rebels' offense, leading the team in assists and contributing significantly in scoring. Smith has been a dominant presence in the paint, leading the team in scoring and rebounding, and anchoring the Bulldogs' defense. A neutral court site here that actually is more geographical to UNLV in neighboring Arizona. I like UNLV plus the decent points as they could win this game outright. Play UNLV.

The Northwestern Wildcats (4-0) are set to face the Butler Bulldogs (5-0) on Thursday in the Arizona Tip-Off at Mullett Arena in Tempe, Arizona. Both teams enter the matchup undefeated, promising a competitive contest. The Wildcats have demonstrated a balanced approach, averaging 73.0 points per game while allowing 58.0 points per game. Their defense has been particularly effective, holding opponents to low scoring. Notable victories include a 68-50 win over Pepperdine, where Jalen Leach led with 21 points, and a 72-69 triumph against Montana State. Their defense has been a cornerstone, effectively limiting opponents' scoring opportunities. The Bulldogs have showcased offensive prowess, averaging 80.0 points per game and conceding 60.0 points per game. Their defense has been solid, allowing 23.1 points per game. Notable performances include a 78-39 victory over Merrimack and an 81-70 win against SMU. Their defense has been particularly effective, holding opponents to low scoring and demonstrating discipline. This one is shaping up to be a defensive battle. Northwestern has the better defense and this game basically just a pick'em contest. Play Northwestern.

The Utah State Aggies (5-1) are set to face the St. Bonaventure Bonnies (6-0) on Thursday, in the ESPN NIT Season Tip-Off at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Kissimmee, Florida. The Aggies began the season with a 5-0 record, showcasing a potent offense that averaged 98.6 points per game, ranking first nationally. Their defense allowed 65.0 points per game, placing them 65th nationally. However, they recently suffered their first loss, a 94-75 defeat to Iowa, where they struggled defensively, allowing Iowa to shoot 54.5% from the field. The Bonnies have maintained an unblemished 6-0 record, with a balanced approach on both ends of the court. Their defense has been particularly effective, holding opponents to an average of 62.0 points per game. Offensively, they have been efficient, with multiple players contributing significantly to the scoring. Notable victories include a 74-65 win over Florida Gulf Coast and a 70-56 triumph against CSUN. This matchup presents a contrast in styles with Utah State's high-octane offense against St. Bonaventure's stifling defense. The Aggies will aim to push the tempo and capitalize on their scoring depth, while the Bonnies will focus on controlling the pace and leveraging their defensive strengths to disrupt Utah State's rhythm. I'm laying the points here on Thursday with the No 1 scoring offense in the country. Play Utah State.

The No. 23 Ole Miss Rebels (5-0) are set to face the BYU Cougars (5-0) on Thursday in the opening round of the Rady Children's Invitational at LionTree Arena in San Diego, California. Both teams enter the matchup undefeated, promising an exciting contest. The Rebels have demonstrated offensive prowess, averaging 85.2 points per game, while maintaining a solid defense, allowing 64.4 points per game. Their recent 100-68 victory over Oral Roberts showcased their scoring depth and defensive capabilities, forcing 21 turnovers and converting them into 37 points. The Cougars have also started strong, averaging 91.0 points per game and conceding 57.8 points per game. Their defense has been particularly effective, holding opponents to low scoring and demonstrating discipline. Notable performances include a 99-55 win over Queens and an 87-43 victory against Mississippi Valley State. Matthew Murrell (Guard) is averaging 19 points per game, Murrell is a consistent offensive threat and a leader on the court. BYU's Darius Robinson Jr. (Guard) is leading the team with 19 points in their recent game, Robinson Jr. is pivotal in BYU's offensive schemes. Two very high scoring teams here in this opening round. Should be a great offensive show. I'm sticking with the dog here plus the points. Take Ole Miss.

The No. 22 Xavier Musketeers (6-0) are set to face the Michigan Wolverines (5-1) on Wednesday in the championship game of the Fort Myers Tip-Off at Suncoast Credit Union Arena in Fort Myers, Florida. Xavier enters the game undefeated, with a recent 75-66 victory over South Carolina in the Fort Myers Tip-Off. Forward Zach Freemantle led the team with 16 points and nine rebounds, while Dailyn Swain contributed 14 points, six rebounds, and five steals. Michigan improved to 5-1 after defeating Virginia Tech 75-63 in their Fort Myers Tip-Off opener. Guard Roddy Gayle Jr. led the Wolverines with 20 points, and Will Tschetter added 10 points off the bench. Michigan's defense held Virginia Tech to 34.5% shooting and forced 19 turnovers. Xavier's Zach Freemantle has been a consistent performer, averaging 15.6 points and 7.8 rebounds per game. Michigan's Roddy Gayle Jr. is averaging 13 points per game and has been instrumental in Michigan's offensive schemes. Both teams have demonstrated strong performances leading up to this championship matchup. Xavier's balanced scoring and defensive prowess will be tested against Michigan's efficient offense and solid defense. I expect Xavier to come out on top here as they are a small dog. Play Xavier

The Oklahoma Sooners are set to face the Providence Friars on Wednesday in the Battle 4 Atlantis tournament held in Paradise Island, Bahamas. The Sooners have started the season strong, boasting a 3-0 record with victories over Linwood (93-60), Northwestern State (73-57), and Stetson (85-64). They are averaging 83.7 points per game while allowing 60.3 points per game. Forward Jalon Moore leads the team with 22.0 points and 6.3 rebounds per game. The Friars have also begun the season undefeated at 5-0, securing wins against Central Connecticut (59-55), Stonehill (76-49), Hampton (60-51), Green Bay (79-65), and Delaware State (78-48). They are averaging 70.4 points per game and allowing 53.6 points per game. Guard Bensley Joseph is contributing 11.8 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game. Oklahoma's Jalon Moore has been instrumental in the Sooners' offense, averaging 22.0 points and 6.3 rebounds per game. Providence's Bensley Joseph leads the Friars with 11.8 points and 4.0 assists per game. Both teams enter this contest with unblemished records so something has to give here on Wednesday. I'm taking the Oklahoma Sooner minus the small points. 

The University of Massachusetts Minutemen (1-5) are set to face the Harvard Crimson (1-4) on Wednesday at Lavietes Pavilion in Cambridge, Massachusetts. This intrastate rivalry has two teams, both in need of a win. The Minutemen have struggled recently, currently on a five-game losing streak. Their most recent defeat was a 92-59 loss to Florida State, where they faced significant defensive challenges. The Crimson have also faced difficulties, with a 1-4 record to start the season. Their lone victory came against Marist, but they have since suffered losses to Navy, American University, Northeastern, and Colorado. UMass senior guard Rahsool Diggins has been a standout, earning a spot on the preseason all-conference team. Harvard freshman guard Robert Hinton has made an immediate impact, averaging 27.0 points per game in early contests. His performance will be vital for Harvard's chances in this matchup. I'm taking the small points here with Harvard.

The Grambling State Tigers are set to face the Cal Poly Mustangs on Tuesday from the Robert A. Mott Athletics Center in San Luis Obispo, California. Unlikely non-conference matchup as Grambling makes the long West trip to the California coast. The Tigers have started the season with a 1-2 record. They secured a decisive victory against Southern University at New Orleans but suffered narrow losses to ranked opponents, including a 66-64 defeat to #24 Ole Miss and an 86-62 loss to #21 Florida. The Mustangs hold a 1-2 record, with a notable 99-66 win over Menlo College. However, they faced defeats against San Francisco (86-78) and California (91-73). Both teams have demonstrated the ability to score, with Cal Poly averaging 83.3 points per game and Grambling State averaging 72.7 points per game. Should be interesting matchup here on Tuesday with two teams in need of a win. I don't like the travelling the Tigers have had to do for this contest and Cal Poly has a nice home court advantage. I'll take the hosts in this one. Play Cal Poly.

The highly anticipated college basketball matchup between the No. 1 Kansas Jayhawks and the No. 11 Duke Blue Devils is set for Tuesday at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. This game is part of the Vegas Showdown, featuring top-tier programs in a non-conference showdown. Kansas has maintained its top ranking in the AP Top 25 poll, receiving 51 of 62 first-place votes ahead of this game. The Jayhawks have showcased a balanced and potent offense, with senior center Hunter Dickinson averaging 17.8 points and 10.4 rebounds per game. Point guard Dajuan Harris contributes 9.2 points and 5.2 assists per game, orchestrating the team's offense effectively. Duke enters the matchup ranked No. 11, with a strong start to the season. Freshman forward Cooper Flagg has been a standout, earning preseason All-America honors and leading the team in scoring. The Blue Devils have demonstrated depth and versatility, with significant contributions from guards Tyrese Proctor and Caleb Foster. Kansas' top ranking and balanced roster give them the edge here on Tuesday. This will be one of the best early matchups of the season and a don't miss contest. I'm taking Kansas here on Tuesday.

The Oregon State Beavers (4-1) are set to face the North Texas Mean Green (4-1) on Monday at The Super Pit in Denton, Texas. This non-conference matchup features two teams with strong starts to their seasons, each aiming to maintain momentum. The Beavers began the season with a four-game winning streak, including victories over Utah Tech, Weber State, Western Oregon, and Cal State Fullerton. Their lone loss came against in-state rival Oregon by a narrow 78-75 margin, despite leading 58-46 with 13:45 left in the second half. Forward Michael Rataj has been instrumental, leading the team with averages of 16.2 points and 9.6 rebounds per game. The Mean Green also hold a 4-1 record, with notable wins, including an away victory at Minnesota. Their only defeat was a seven-point loss to McNeese State. North Texas has demonstrated a balanced offensive attack, with multiple players contributing significantly to their scoring efforts. Home court here tonight goes to North Texas. Both teams have looked good to start the season, but I'm taking the Mean Green on their home court tonight. Play North Texas.

 Non-Conference matchup here between the College of Charleston Cougars (3-1) as they face off against the Rhode Island Rams (3-0) on Sunday the Thomas M. Ryan Center in Kingston, Rhode Island. College of Charleston Cougars: The Cougars have begun the season with a 3-1 record. They are coming off a 68-47 loss to Liberty, where they struggled offensively, shooting 35% from the field and committing 18 turnovers. Prior to this, they secured victories against South Florida and The Citadel, showcasing a balanced offensive attack. The Rams hold a perfect 3-0 record, with their most recent victory being a 105-73 win over Franklin Pierce. Rhode Island's defense has been solid, but that has also been against poor opponents. Today's contest vs Charleston will be their toughest test thus far. I see this game as going either way, however, with Charleston playing better opponents I will take them here on Sunday plus the modest points. Play Charleston.

The Boise State Broncos (3-1) are set to face the Hampton Pirates (2-3) on Sunday at John Gray Gymnasium in George Town, Grand Cayman, as part of the Cayman Islands Classic. The Broncos have started the season strong, holding a 3-1 record. They are currently on a three-game home winning streak, with their most recent victory being an 84-71 win over Clemson. In that game, forward Tyson Degenhart led the team with 16 points in the first half and secured a team-high 11 rebounds. The Pirates have a 2-3 record this season. They recently secured a 78-68 victory over UMBC, demonstrating resilience and offensive capability. Boise State's balanced scoring attack, led by Tyson Degenhart, will challenge Hampton's defense. Boise's three wins have come at home and today in the tourney contest they are laying a lot of points. I don't expect a Hampton win, but I do expect them to come in under the spread. Take Hampton.

 The Florida State Seminoles are set to face the Temple Owls on Friday at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut as part of the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame Tip-Off Tournament. The Seminoles enter the game with a 4-1 record. They have demonstrated a balanced offensive attack, averaging 76.5 points per game, while their defense allows 76.3 points per game. The Owls hold a 3-1 record. Their offense averages 70.9 points per game, and their defense concedes 72.9 points per game. Temple has shown resilience, with their only loss being a narrow defeat. This matchup presents an opportunity for both teams to make a statement early in the season. I look for a tight contest with the line coming into play in this one. I'll take the points with the dog, Temple.

Reason: Boardwalk Battle Tournament here on Thursday has the Stetson Hatters facing the Toledo Rockets at the Ocean Center in Daytona Beach, Florida. The Rockets enter the game with a 3-1 record. They began the season with a loss to Marshall but have since secured three consecutive victories against Wright State, Detroit Mercy, and Wright State again. In their recent 86-77 win over Wright State, the Rockets showcased a balanced offensive attack, with multiple players contributing significantly. The Hatters hold a 1-3 record. They secured a 94-75 victory over New College (FL) but have suffered losses to Omaha, The Citadel, and Oklahoma. In their recent 74-52 loss to Oklahoma, the Hatters struggled offensively. Playing at a neutral site in the Boardwalk Battle tournament eliminates home-court advantage, making team preparation and adaptability key factors in the game's outcome. Stetson is a double digit dog here on Thursday and while Toledo has shown to be the better team thus far, this game on neutral court levels the playing field. I'll take the points here with Stetson.

Reason: Late action on the college basketball hard court tonight has the Idaho State Bengals set to face the UCLA Bruins at Pauley Pavilion in Los Angeles, California. The Bengals enter the game with a 2-3 record. They began the season with a victory over Arizona Christian but have since faced losses to San Diego and Cal State Fullerton. In their recent 62-61 loss to Cal State Fullerton, guards Dylan Darling and Jake O'Neil each scored 17 points, highlighting their offensive contributions. The Bruins hold a 3-1 record. They secured an overwhelming 85-45 victory over Lehigh, following a 21-point unchallenged streak in the first half. Aday Mara scored a career-high 16 points, among four Bruins in double figures, including Eric Dailey Jr. with 17 points and 10 rebounds. Tyler Bilodeau added 15 points, while Sebastian Mack scored 10 from the bench. UCLA played without leading scorer Dylan Andrews due to a groin injury. Injury Reports: UCLA's leading scorer, Dylan Andrews, missed the previous game due to a groin injury. His availability for the upcoming game could significantly impact UCLA's offensive dynamics. ANdrews could return tonight, though they likely won't need him as they are 24 point favorites. UCLA is 3-1 all-time against Idaho State, but the Bengals' victory still ranks as one of the biggest upsets of all time. Idaho State stunned a UCLA team featuring future NBA stars Marques Johnson and Kiki Vandeweghe 76-75 in the Sweet 16 of the 1977 NCAA Tournament. You can be assure Idaho State will point to that 1977 win for some momentum tonight. The Bruins should have little issue winning, but I'll take Idaho State plus the big points.

The Iona Gaels are set to face the West Virginia Mountaineers on Wednesday at the WVU Coliseum in Morgantown, West Virginia. Iona enters the game with a 1-2 record. They began the season with losses to Providence and Hofstra but secured their first win against Vermont, with Dejour Reaves leading the team with 22 points in a 62-59 victory. The Mountaineers hold a 2-1 record. They opened the season with victories over Robert Morris and UMass but suffered a significant loss to Pitt, 86-62, in the Backyard Brawl. Both teams have shown the ability to score but need to improve consistency. Iona's Dejour Reaves has been a standout performer, while West Virginia will look to rebound offensively after their recent loss. Both teams looking to get some momentum going with a win tonight. Iona is a very big dog of around 15 points. I believe that's too many points for this West Virginia team to lay. Take Iona.

The Niagara Purple Eagles are set to face the Bowling Green Falcons on Tuesday at the Stroh Center in Bowling Green, Ohio. Niagara enters the game with a 1-2 record. They began the season with a commanding 100-65 victory over Houghton but have since faced defeats against Michigan State (96-60) and Detroit Mercy (84-78 in overtime). In their recent loss to Detroit Mercy, Olumide Adelodun led the team with 20 points. The Falcons hold a 1-3 record. They secured a decisive 107-43 win over Taylor University but have suffered losses to Southern Miss (77-68), Davidson (91-85), and Michigan State (86-72). In their recent game against Michigan State, Bowling Green led 72-68 with 7:11 remaining but were unable to score in the final minutes, allowing an 18-0 run by the Spartans. Defensive lapses have been evident for both teams, particularly in closing out games. Hard to see that the Falcons laying these kind of points with their losing record. Niagara may not win outright but I fully expect them to come in under the spread in this one. Play Niagara.

College Basketball action tonight has the Colgate Raiders set to face the NC State Wolfpack at the Lenovo Center in Raleigh, North Carolina. The Raiders enter the game with a 1-2 record. They began the season with a victory over SUNY Cortland but have since faced consecutive losses to Drexel and Syracuse. In their recent 74-72 loss to Syracuse, Jalen Cox led the team with 21 points, indicating his pivotal role in the offense. The Wolfpack boast a 3-0 record, securing wins against USC Upstate, Presbyterian, and Coastal Carolina. Their offense has been prolific, averaging 86.7 points per game, while their defense has allowed an average of 70 points per game. Jayden Taylor has been a standout performer, averaging 16.3 points per game. NC State really hasn't faced anyone yet so you have to take that 3-0 record and 86.7 scoring average with a grain of salt. Meanwhile, Colgate lost by just two points a very good Syracuse club, 72-74. I'm going to take a shot with the decent dog price on Colgate here tonight. Play Colgate. 

The Montana State Bobcats are set to face the Denver Pioneers on Sunday, at Hamilton Gymnasium in Denver, Colorado. The Bobcats enter the game with a 0-1 record, having faced a challenging season opener against Wisconsin, resulting in a 79-67 loss. Despite the defeat, Montana State showcased resilience and competitive play against a formidable opponent. The Pioneers hold a 1-2 record. They began the season with a loss to Stanford, followed by a victory over Western Colorado, and most recently, a loss to Colorado State. Denver has demonstrated offensive potential but has faced challenges in maintaining consistency. Both teams have shown the ability to score but need to improve consistency. Montana State's performance against Wisconsin indicates potential, while Denver's win over Western Colorado highlights their scoring capabilities albeit against weak opponent. Denver has the home court here on Sunday, but Montana is still a 3-4 point favorite. Montana showed they can play with the best as they hung in there against Wisconsin. Can't say the same for Denver. I'm taking the visitor in this one. Play Montana State.

The Nebraska Cornhuskers are set to face the Saint Mary's Gaels on Sunday at the Sanford Pentagon in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. This non-conference matchup has a neutral site between these clubs here today. Nebraska enters the game with a 3-0 record, securing victories over Texas Rio Grande Valley, Bethune-Cookman, and Fairleigh Dickinson. The Cornhuskers have demonstrated balanced scoring and solid defensive play, allowing an average of 58.7 points per game. St Mary's also holds a 3-0 record, with wins against New Mexico State, UC Irvine, and San Jose State. The Gaels have showcased offensive prowess, averaging 74.0 points per game, and a strong defense, conceding an average of 58.7 points per game. Both teams have displayed effective scoring abilities. Nebraska's balanced attack will be tested against Saint Mary's disciplined defense. Saint Mary's has been particularly strong defensively, allowing only 58.7 points per game. One of these teams will come out of this game undefeated while the other suffers their first loss of the season. I look for a tough contest here, but I'll take the dog with Nebraska.

The Wyoming Cowboys are set to host the Utah Tech Trailblazers on Saturday at the Arena-Auditorium in Laramie, Wyoming. The Cowboys enter the game with a 2-1 record. They secured victories over Concordia-St. Paul and Tennessee State but faced a significant defeat against Texas Tech, losing 96-49.  The team is under the new leadership of head coach Sundance Wicks, who took over after Jeff Linder departed to become an assistant at Texas Tech. The Trailblazers hold a 1-2 record. They began the season with a loss to Oregon State, followed by a win against New Mexico State, and most recently, a loss to Bethesda University. The recent coaching change for Wyoming adds an element of unpredictability. How the team adapts to Coach Wicks' system could influence their performance. Wyoming is at home tonight and that will be a key difference. I don't see them back down and against this Utah Tech club.  Take Wyoming. 

The Tennessee State Tigers are set to host the Alabama A&M Bulldogs on Saturday at the Gentry Center in Nashville, Tennessee. The Tigers enter the game with a 1-3 record. They began the season with a victory over Fisk University but have since faced three consecutive losses, including an 88-84 overtime defeat to Howard University. In that game, guard Brandon Weston delivered an impressive performance, scoring 26 points. The Bulldogs have started strong, holding a 3-0 record. Their victories include wins over Arkansas Baptist and Fisk University. The team has demonstrated balanced scoring and solid defensive play, contributing to their undefeated start. Tennessee State will look to capitalize on Brandon Weston's scoring ability, aiming to establish a consistent offensive rhythm. Alabama A&M's balanced scoring approach will test Tennessee State's defensive resilience. Tenn Tech has home court advantage here on Saturday. You have to throw out some of these early season blowout win because of the teams they face. That being said, this is just the matchup for Tech to shine on Saturday. Play Tennessee Tech. 

The Idaho Vandals are set to face the BYU Cougars on Saturday at the Marriott Center in Provo, Utah. The Vandals enter the game with a 1-2 record. They secured a commanding 94-60 victory over Northwest University but suffered losses to Sacramento State and Portland State. The team has shown offensive potential, averaging 67.8 points per game, but has struggled defensively, allowing an average of 71.2 points per game. The Cougars have been impressive, holding a 3-0 record. They have demonstrated offensive prowess, averaging 81.4 points per game, and a solid defense, conceding an average of 69.9 points per game. Their recent performances include a decisive 88-50 win over Central Arkansas. BYU's high-scoring offense, led by guard Jaxson Robinson, who averages 13.8 points per game, will challenge Idaho's defense. Obviously BYU will have little issue with a win. But they likely will go deep into the bench and give other players a shot in this one. That means this 28+ point spread likely will come into play here on Saturday. I'll take Idaho with the big points as they go against a disinterested BYU club. 

The Notre Dame Fighting Irish are set to face the Georgetown Hoyas on Saturday in this non-conference matchup at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C.  Notre Dame enters the game with a 2-0 record. They secured victories over Stonehill and Central Michigan, showcasing a balanced offensive and defensive approach. The team has demonstrated effective perimeter shooting and solid defensive play, contributing to their early success. Georgetown also holds a 2-0 record, with wins against Lehigh and Fairfield. The Hoyas have displayed resilience, overcoming early deficits to secure their victories. Their offense has been spearheaded by strong guard play, while the defense has shown improvement compared to previous seasons. Both teams rely heavily on their backcourt for offensive production. The matchup between Notre Dame's experienced guards and Georgetown's dynamic perimeter players will be pivotal. Don't expect Georgetown to be able to come from behind here today as easily as they did in some earlier wins.  I'll take Notre Dame minus the small points here on Saturday. 

Non-Conference matchup here on Friday that will be played on a neutral court has the Georgia Southern Eagles clashing with the North Carolina Central (NCCU) Eagles on Friday at the Rock Hill Sports & Event Center in Rock Hill, South Carolina. Georgia Southern enters the game with a 1-1 record. They secured a 79-69 victory over Augusta State on November 11. NCCU has faced challenges, holding a 0-3 record. Their recent game was a 76-60 loss to High Point on November 12, 2024. Considering Georgia Southern's recent win and NCCU's struggles, Georgia Southern enters the matchup with a slight edge. Georgia Southern is about a 4 to 5 point favorite. While NCCU is winless, they have been competitive. They don't need a win here Friday, just cover the 5-point spread. Take NCCU Eagles.

 The Lindenwood Lions are set to face the Robert Morris Colonials on Friday at the UPMC Events Center in Moon Township, Pennsylvania. This non-conference matchup features two teams aiming to establish momentum in the early stages of the 2024-25 NCAA men's basketball season. The Lions enter the game with a 1-2 record. After a season-opening loss to Oklahoma, they secured a commanding 98-30 victory over the University of Health Sciences & Pharmacy in St. Louis. Their most recent game was a 77-70 loss to New Orleans on November 14. The Colonials hold a 2-2 record. They began the season with losses to West Virginia and Delaware but rebounded with a 79-51 win over Chatham University. Their latest game resulted in a 70-65 victory over Stonehill on November 14. Playing at the UPMC Events Center provides Robert Morris with a familiar environment and the crowd. Both teams looking to establish some kind of early season momentum. However, Robert Morris has the home court, which in a non-con game like this means a lot. Take Robert Morris.

Northern Arizona has started the season with a 1-2 record, averaging around 68 points per game. They rely heavily on their guard play and perimeter shooting but have been inconsistent offensively, especially against teams with a strong defensive presence. The Lumberjacks' backcourt is their main asset, with a couple of players who are capable shooters from beyond the arc. The Pacific Tigers have shown strong form early on, with a 2-1 record. They're averaging around 75 points per game and have proven effective both in the paint and in creating scoring opportunities through offensive sets. They thrive on a balanced offense and have used their size advantage in matchups. The Tigers are strong on the boards, with their forwards contributing significantly in scoring and rebounding. Pacific's outside shooting has been inconsistent. If Northern Arizona can pack the paint and force Pacific to take more outside shots, this will be a close game. Northern Arizona must also speed up the game and hit outside shots. If they can pull Pacific's defenders to the perimeter and capitalize on three-point opportunities, they have a chance to offset Pacific's size and strength in the paint. Northern Arizona can stay with Pacific if they stick to their game plan. I'll take the points here on Thursday with Northern Arizona.

Extra board action here on Thursday has the Texas A&M-Corpus Christi Islanders and the New Mexico State Aggies facing off at the Pan American Center in Las Cruces, New Mexico. The Texas A&M-Corpus Christi Islanders (1-1) have averaged 80 points per game over their first two games. They secured a victory against Dallas Christian with a score of 87-36 but suffered a loss to Purdue with a score of 73-90. The Aggies have been impressive offensively, averaging 85 points per game. They opened the season with a 77-56 win against Western New Mexico and followed up with a 93-57 victory over New Mexico Highlands. Both teams have shown strong offensive to star this early season. I like playing the dog here on Thursday plus the points as they can put up good numbers and should stay close. Play Texas A&M Corpus.

Wednesday college hoop action has the Harvard Crimson and the Northeastern Huskies meeting up from the Matthews Arena in Boston, Massachusetts. The Harvard Crimson (1-2) Harvard has averaged 68.3 points per game over their first three games. They secured a victory against Marist with a score of 79-66 but suffered losses to Navy (85-80) and American University (67-55). The Crimson have allowed an average of 69 points per game, indicating areas for improvement on the defensive end. The Huskies (1-1) have averaged 78 points per game in their first two outings. They opened the season with an 80-72 win against Boston University but narrowly lost to Princeton with a score of 79-76. Northeastern has conceded an average of 75.5 points per game. Both teams have shown offensive capabilities early in the season, with Northeastern holding a slight edge in scoring efficiency. Both teams have shown they can score and in recent seasons I like this Harvard team better. I'll take the Crimson here on Wednesday plus the small amount of points. Take Harvard.

Extra board game here tonight has the Binghamton Bearcats and the Fordham Rams meeting at the Rose Hill Gymnasium in Bronx, New York. The Binghamton Bearcats have started the season with a 0-1 record, having faced a challenging opener against Penn State, resulting in a 66-108 loss. In that game, Binghamton struggled defensively, allowing Penn State to shoot 54.5% from the field. The Fordham Rams also have a 0-1 record, having lost their season opener to St. John's with a score of 60-92. Fordham faced difficulties on both ends of the court, shooting 36.4% from the field and allowing St. John's to score efficiently. Binghamton sophomore guard Gavin Walsh led the Bearcats with 21 points in their game against Miami. His scoring ability will be crucial for Binghamton as they seek their first win. Both teams are seeking their first win of the season after facing tough opponents in their openers. Both teams gave up a lot of points to much better opponents. This game should be a shot for both to get a win here tonight. That being said, the double digit points that Binghamton gets tonight is just too much by a team that showed little life in its first game. Take the points with the visitor here tonight. Play Binghamton.

The Tarleton State Texans and the Florida State Seminoles set to play a non-conference contest here on Tuesday from the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center in Tallahassee, Florida. The Tarleton State Texans started the season with a 0-1 record, having faced a challenging opener against SMU, resulting in a 62-96 loss. In that game, Tarleton State struggled defensively, allowing SMU to shoot 55% from the field. The Florida State Seminoles have begun their season with a 2-0 record, securing victories over Northern Kentucky and Rice. In their most recent game against Rice, Florida State showcased a balanced offense, with five players scoring in double figures, leading to a 74-62 win. Florida State enters the game as big favorite. The Seminoles' depth and balanced scoring make them a easy straight-up pick tonight. However, the Texans' ability to limit turnovers and execute their game plan result in Tarleton State keeping this one closer than many would imagine. Take Tarleton State. 

The Monmouth Hawks and the Northern Illinois Huskies clash tonight from the NIU Convocation Center in DeKalb, Illinois. The Monmouth Hawks started the season with a 0-2 record. They faced a challenging opener against Michigan State, resulting in a 57-81 loss. In their second game, they were defeated by Temple with a score of 65-80. The Hawks have struggled offensively, averaging 61 points per game, while allowing an average of 80.5 points against. The Northern Illinois Huskies are 0-1, having lost their season opener to Georgia Southern with a score of 65-80. In that game, junior guard James Dent Jr. led the team with 24 points. The Huskies managed to score 65 points but allowed 80 points defensively. Monmouth sophomore guard Abdi Bashir has been a standout, averaging 20 points per game. His scoring ability will be crucial for the Hawks as they seek their first win. Both teams are seeking their first win of the season and both teams have struggled offensively. This will be the best shot for Monmouth to get on the win column and with two games under their belt I look for them to make the necessary adjustments here at NIU tonight. Take Monmouth.

The Cornell Big Red take on the La Salle Explorers Tuesday from the John Glaser Arena in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Cornell Big Red have started the season strong with a 2-0 record. They opened with a commanding 93-52 victory over Marywood University, showcasing efficient shooting and ball movement. In their second game, they edged out Samford University 88-86, demonstrating resilience in close contests. The La Salle Explorers also holds a 2-0 record. They secured a 65-52 win against American University, followed by an 81-60 victory over Lafayette College. The Explorers have displayed a balanced offense and a solid defensive presence in their initial games. Cornell Sophomore guard Jake Fiegen has been a standout, scoring 16 points on 7-of-8 shooting in the season opener. His efficient scoring and playmaking abilities are crucial for Cornell's offense. La Salle Junior guard Corey McKeithan has been leading the team, averaging 16.0 points per game. His scoring and leadership on the court are vital for the Explorers' success. Both teams have shown promising starts to their seasons. Cornell's high-paced offense will be what stands them out here on Tuesday. I'll take the points with Cornell. 

The University of Tennessee at Martin Skyhawks (UT Martin) will take on the University of North Alabama Lions (North Alabama) at the CB&S Bank Arena at Flowers Hall in Florence, Alabama. The UT Martin Skyhawks have started the season with a 2-0 record. Their offense has been prolific, averaging 81.5 points per game, ranking them second in the Ohio Valley Conference (OVC). Defensively, they have allowed an average of 76.7 points per game. Guard Jordan Sears has been a standout performer, averaging 21.6 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game. The North Alabama Lions also hold a 2-0 record, with a balanced performance on both ends of the court. They are averaging 76.5 points per game while allowing 76.1 points per game. Guard Jacari Lane has been instrumental, contributing 14.7 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game. UT Martin's high-scoring offense will test North Alabama's perimeter defense. UT Martin's potent offense, led by Jordan Sears, could pose significant challenges in this contest. I'll take the visitors here as they should score plenty of points. PLay Tennessee Martin.

The Eastern Washington Eagles (1-1) are set to face the Missouri Tigers (1-1) on Monday at Mizzou Arena in Columbia, Missouri. The Eastern Washington Eagles are under first-year head coach Dan Monson. The Eagles opened their season with a 76-56 loss to Colorado on November 4. They rebounded with a 93-86 victory over Seattle U, where Andrew Cook led the team with 25 points and three steals. The Missouri Tigers began their season with an 83-75 loss to Memphis on November 4. They secured a 77-62 win against Howard in their subsequent game, with Tamar Bates contributing 17 points and Mark Mitchell adding 16 points and eight rebounds. Eastern Wasdhington has shown me enough offense to be a play here on Monday as they should stay close to Missouri. Play Eastern Washington.

 The Fairleigh Dickinson Knights (1-1) will face the No. 15 Creighton Bluejays (1-0) at the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Nebraska here on Sunday. The Creighton Bluejays began their season with a 99-86 victory over UT Rio Grande Valley, highlighted by center Ryan Kalkbrenner's impressive 49-point performance. The Bluejays are coming off a 25-10 record from the previous season, where they reached the Sweet 16 in the NCAA Tournament. They have retained key players, including Kalkbrenner, and added notable recruits and transfers to bolster their roster. The Fairleigh Dickinson Knights opened their season with a 113-72 loss to Miami (FL), where they struggled defensively, allowing a 66.7% shooting percentage from the Hurricanes. Despite the loss, guard Terrence Brown led the team with 18 points. Fairleigh Dickinson is aiming to improve upon their 15-17 record from last season. Creighton should have little issues winning this game outright. But they are laying a lot of points and against a team like FD, I exect the Blue Jays to put this one into cruise control and let the Knights slide in under the line for the cover. Play Fairligh Dickinson.

The Michigan Wolverines (1-0) will face the Wake Forest Demon Deacons (2-0) at 1:00 PM from the First Horizon Coliseum, Greensboro, North Carolina. The Michigan Wolverines are under new head coach Dusty May. Michigan began their season with a commanding 101-53 victory over Cleveland State. Forward Danny Wolf led the team with 19 points, 13 rebounds, three steals, and three blocks. Guard Tre Donaldson contributed 16 points and seven assists. Wake Forest Demon Deacons, coached by Steve Forbes in his fifth year, has started the season 2-0. They secured a 64-49 win over Coppin State and an 80-64 victory against North Carolina A&T. Guard Cameron Hildreth scored 15 points, grabbed five rebounds, and provided four assists in the game against Coppin State. Both teams have started the season strong, Wake Forest has home-court advantage and an experienced roster, including key players like Hildreth and Sallis, will make this a competitive matchup. I'll take the points here today with Wake Forest.

The Memphis Tigers are set to face the UNLV Runnin' Rebels on Saturday at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Memphis Tigers (1-0) began their season with an 83-75 victory over Missouri on November 4. In that game, PJ Haggerty led the team with 25 points, showcasing the Tigers' offensive capabilities. The UNLV Runnin' Rebels (1-0) opened their season with a 93-79 win against Alabama State on November 4. The Rebels demonstrated a balanced attack, with multiple players contributing significantly to the scoring effort. Memphis is led by PJ Haggerty (G) with 25 points in the season opener, Haggerty is a pivotal figure in Memphis's offense. UNLV is led by Dedan Thomas Jr. (G) who is averaging 14.1 points and 5.2 assists per game last season. This matchup marks the first time Memphis will play at UNLV since 1997, adding historical significance to the game. Both teams have started the season strong with convincing wins. Memphis's offense, led by Haggerty, will test UNLV's defense. Conversely, UNLV's balanced scoring and home-court advantage could pose challenges for Memphis. Home court should be the deciding factor here on Saturday as both teams evenly matched. I'll take UNLV in this game.

The Fairfield Stags are set to face the Georgetown Hoyas on Saturday at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C. The Fairfield Stags (0-1) began their season with a 96-58 loss to Rhode Island on November 4. In that game, Australian forward Louis Bleechmore led the team with 13 points. The Georgetown Hoyas (1-0) opened their season with an 85-77 victory over Lehigh on November 6. Freshman center Thomas Sorber led the team with 20 points and 13 rebounds, showcasing his potential as a key player for the Hoyas. Fairfield is led by Louis Bleechmore (F) who is leading the team with 13 points in the season opener. Georgetown is led by Thomas Sorber (C) who is averaging 20.0 points and 13.0 rebounds per game. The last meeting between these teams was on December 1, 2007, when Georgetown secured a 61-49 victory over Fairfield. Georgetown the better team but they shouldn't be laying this kind of lumber in this game. The 16.5 points is just too many for the Hoyas. I'll take Fairfield on Saturday.

Extra board game here on Saturday has Morgan State and Longwood from the Joan Perry Brock Center in Farmville, Virginia, has Longwood favored by 11.5 points. The Morgan State Bears (1-1) opened the season with a high-scoring win, defeating Frostburg State 89-76. However, they stumbled in their follow-up game, losing 76-89 to Mercyhurst. This indicates the Bears can score well but may struggle defensively against potent offenses. Key for Morgan State will be shoring up their defensive play, as they have allowed nearly 80 points per game so far. They are led by Wynston Tabbs (G), who is averaging an impressive 24.0 points per game and will be central to the Bears’ offense. The Longwood Lancers (1-0) began their season with a solid 79-68 win over Randolph. They managed to handle Randolph's hot shooting, which speaks to their defensive resilience. The Lancers are coming off a strong 2023 season, and they seem to be in solid form, setting themselves up as a balanced team with reliable defense and offense. They are led byy KJ McClurg (G) who is averaging 14.0 points per game and provides scoring power alongside Longwood’s defensive structure.  Longwood has a significant advantage playing at home. Historically, the Lancers have been solid at protecting their home court. I'll lay the points with Longwood here on Saturday. 

The Tennessee Volunteers are set to face the Louisville Cardinals on Saturday at the KFC Yum! Center in Louisville, Kentucky. Tennessee Volunteers (1-0) are Ranked No. 12 nationally. Tennessee began their season with an 80-64 victory over Gardner-Webb. Guard Chaz Lanier led the team with 18 points, showcasing his offensive prowess. The Louisville Cardinals (1-0) opened their season with a commanding 93-45 win against Morehead State. Forward Kasean Pryor delivered a standout performance, recording 18 points, 12 rebounds, and 4 assists. Tennessee is led by Chaz Lanier (G) who is averaging 18.0 points per game. Louisville is led by Kasean Pryor (F) who is averaging 18.0 points and 12.0 rebounds per game. Both teams have demonstrated strong starts to their seasons, each securing decisive victories in their openers. Tennessee's balanced attack, led by Lanier, will challenge Louisville's defense. Given Tennessee's national ranking and recent performance, I look for the Vols to take this one. Play Tennessee.

The UCLA Bruins are set to face the New Mexico Lobos on Friday, at Lee's Family Forum in Henderson, Nevada. Both teams enter the game with 1-0 records. In their season opener on November 4, UCLA dominated Rider University with an 85-50 victory. The Bruins showcased a balanced offensive attack, with Tyler Bilodeau leading the team with 18 points and six rebounds. Dylan Andrews contributed 14 points and six assists, while freshman Sebastian Mack added 12 points. The Bruins' defense was equally impressive, holding Rider to 50 points and forcing multiple turnovers. New Mexico began its season with a 91-84 win over Nicholls State on November 4. Center Nelly Junior Joseph had a standout performance, recording 28 points, 16 rebounds, and three blocks. Guard Donovan Dent also made significant contributions with 15 points, 11 assists, and three steals. The Lobos demonstrated offensive prowess but showed vulnerabilities on the defensive end, allowing 84 points. UCLA's balanced offense and strong defense will be crucial in countering New Mexico's high-scoring capabilities, particularly the inside presence of Nelly Junior Joseph. It's still early but UCLA looked much better in their opener and look to have the better talent. Take UCLA.

 The Arizona State Sun Devils are set to face the Santa Clara Broncos on Friday at Lee's Family Forum in Henderson, Nevada. Both teams enter the game with 1-0 records, having secured victories in their season openers. In their season opener on November 5, Arizona State edged past Idaho State with a 55-48 victory. The game was marked by a strong defensive performance, though the offense showed room for improvement. Missouri State transfer Alston Mason led the team with 14 points, while UW Milwaukee transfer BJ Freeman contributed 12 points. Freshman center Jayden Quaintance, a five-star recruit, had a notable defensive impact with six blocks, despite scoring only two points. Fellow freshman Joson Sanon added 11 points to the tally. Santa Clara commenced their season with an 85-78 win over Saint Louis on November 4. The Broncos were propelled by former Arizona Wildcat Adama-Alpha Bal, who scored 24 points in the game. Bal, who averaged 14.4 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game last season, continues to be a key player for Santa Clara. This neutral-site game in Henderson, Nevada, presents an early test for both teams. Arizona State's defense, highlighted by Quaintance's shot-blocking ability, will be crucial in countering Santa Clara's offensive threats, particularly Bal. Offensively, the Sun Devils will aim to enhance their scoring efficiency, building on the contributions from Mason, Freeman, and Sanon. Santa Clara, under the guidance of head coach Herb Sendek, a former Arizona State head coach, will look to leverage their experience and Bal's scoring prowess to challenge the Sun Devils' defense. Early in this season I'll take Santa Clara here today with the better scoring offense. Take Santa Clara

 The Robert Morris Colonials (0-1) are set to face the Delaware Fightin' Blue Hens (0-1) on Thursday at the Bob Carpenter Center in Newark, Delaware. In their season opener, the Colonials suffered a significant defeat, losing 87-59 to West Virginia. Junior guard Josh Omojafo led the team with 13 points and six rebounds, showcasing his ability to drive to the basket and draw fouls, as evidenced by his perfect 7-of-7 performance from the free-throw line. However, the team struggled defensively, allowing West Virginia to score 87 points. Delaware also began their season with a loss, falling 85-73 to Bucknell. Senior guard Erik Timko was a standout performer, recording 20 points, four rebounds, and two assists, while senior guard Niels Lane contributed 16 points and five rebounds. Despite these individual efforts, the team allowed Bucknell to score 85 points, indicating potential defensive vulnerabilities. Both teams are seeking their first win of the season. Delaware's home-court advantage and the offensive capabilities of Timko and Lane will be the key to a win here on Thursday. I'm taking Delaware to cover this spread on their home court today.

More opening day action here as the Valparaiso Beacons and the Liberty Flames are set to tip off their 2024-25 men's college basketball seasons today at the John Wooden Family Fieldhouse in Xenia, Ohio. Valparaiso concluded with a 7-25 overall record last season, including a 4-7 mark in non-conference play. They averaged 67.6 points per game, shooting 40.6% from the field and 32.6% from three-point range. Liberty finished the previous season at 18-14 overall, with an 11-4 record against non-conference opponents. They averaged 73.8 points per game while allowing 65.5 points per game, indicating a solid defensive performance. Valparaiso guard Isaiah Stafford led the Beacons last season with 16.9 points per game, along with 3.7 rebounds and 2.1 assists. Liberty forward Kyle Rode was a standout for the Flames, averaging 14.2 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game. Given Liberty's stronger performance last season and their defensive capabilities, they enter this matchup as 9.5-point favorites. Liberty's balanced offense and solid defense present a significant challenge for the Beacons. Take Liberty.

College basketball season tips off here on Monday early with this game between College of Charleston Cougars and the Southern Illinois Salukis playing from the Sanford Pentagon in Sioux Falls, South Dakota - a neutral site game for these teams. College of Charleston Cougars is under new head coach Chris Mack. The Cougars aim to build upon their recent successes, including back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances. The team has undergone significant roster changes, bringing in seven transfer players and three freshmen. Southern Illinois Salukis also enter this season with a new head coach, Scott Nagy, and have experienced substantial roster turnover, returning only three players from the previous season. They have added ten scholarship players and a walk-on during the transfer window. Coaching Transitions: Both teams are adjusting to new coaching philosophies and systems, which could impact their performance in the season opener. The effectiveness with which each team integrates new players will be crucial. Charleston's mix of experienced transfers and returning talent may provide just the advantage I am looking for here on Monday. Play Charleston.

 NCAA Men's Championship here today from Phoenix Arizona has Purdue taking on Connecticut for the crown. Both teams were No 1 seeds in the NCAA Tournament. Purdue (34-4) got here with their victory over NC State, 63-50. Connecticut beat No 4 Alabama, 86-72. Both teams covering their final four matchups. Purdue has been on a journey to forget last year's loss to a No 16 seed in the tournament. The Boilermakers played stifling defense against NC State, holding the Wolfpack to just 36.8% shooting and 21 points over the last 20 minutes of the game. Purdue averages 82.9 ppg this year and 48.9% shooting. U Conn looking to defend its 2023 title and they have rolled over the competition in the NCAA tournament. The Huskies have covered every game in the NCAA tourney and in fact have covered 11 of the last 12 games. They shot 53.1% vs the Crimson Tide and hit 10 three-pointers. U Conn averaged 81.6 ppg this year and shot 49.8% from the field. They also allowed just 63.3 ppg this year. I have been impressed with the way Connecticut has been on a mission to repeat this year and doing it by thrashing its opponents. Purdue is very good, but I believe this is the year for the Huskies. I'll take U Conn here on Monday.

First game of the two Final Four games has NC State taking on Purdue. The winner going to the National Championship game. NC State has been on quite a run. After winning their conference tournament over North Carolina, 84-76, they have four straight wins in the NCAA Tournament. They opened with a win over Texas Tech (80-67), then over Oakland (79-73) and then over Marquette (67-58) and then in the Elite 8 over Duke, 76-64. They covered all those games except the Oakland matchup which they missed by a half point. The Wolfpack have won nine straight games and covered eight of those. Purdue lost in the Big 10 Conference tourney to Wisconsin, 75-76, but have rebounded with wins in the NCAA over Grambling (78-50), Utah State (106-67), Gonzaga (80-68) and last game over Tennessee, 72-66, as a 3-point favorite. They have covered all four NCAA tourney games. At this juncture you can make a argument for either side based on their previous play. The Wolfpack are the Cinderella team. They have held all four NCAA tourney opponents to under 40% shooting with their defense. They are also the hottest team in the tournament. Purdue is a big favorite to get to the Championship game. However, I expect NC State to give them all they can handle here today and make this a close game. I like the defense of NC State and the points. Play NC State.

The NIT Championship Game here on Thursday has the Seton Hall Pirates taking on the Indiana State Sycamores. This game being played at the Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, IN. The Seton Hall Pirates are 24-12 with one more game to go in their season. They have won four straight games, including their last one to get to this final over Georgia, 84-67, as a 5.5-point favorite. The Pirates have won six of their last seven and covered their last three games. They are now 4-3 S/U and 3-4 ATS in their seven tourney games this season, though all four wins coming in the postseason. The defense has been very good for Seton Hall, holding opponents to just 66.3 ppg in the NIT. Indiana State goes for its 33rd win of the season and could have easily received a NCAA bid. After losing to Drake in their conference tourney, they have gone on to win four straight in the NIT, covering three of those. That includes last game over Utah, 100-90, as a 4-point favorite. The Sycamores are now 9-1 S/U and 7-3 ATS in their 10 tourney games this year. This game comes down to the defense of Seton Hall vs the offense of Indiana State. The Hall also likes to slow the pace while Indiana State likes to press the pace. Seton Hall the small dog here on Thursday. I'll take the Pirates plus the points in what should be a great game. Play Seton Hall.

NIT Semifinal action tonight has Seton Hall taking on Georgia from Indianapolis, IN. Georgia lost in their conference tourney to Florida, 80-85, as a 8-point dog. They have since won all three NIT games, the last two on the road. They opened with a win over Xavier, 78-76, then beat Wake Forest, 72-66, and last game over Ohio State, 79-77, as a 9-point dog. They have covered all three games and also covered their last seven games. Georgia is 4-3 S/U and 5-2 ATS in their seven tourney games this year. The Seton Hall Pirates played all three NIT games at home and opened with a close win over St Joe's, 75-72, as a 8-point favorite. Then it was two easy wins over North Texas, 72-58 and then another easy win over UNLV, 91-68. They covered the last two games and two of three NIT games. The Pirates are 3-3 S/U and 2-4 ATS in their six tourney games. I like Seton Hall here tonight. Georgia has been winning as big dogs (+7 and +9) their last two games. I believe that catches up with them here tonight. Play Seton Hall.

NIT Semifinal action here on Tuesday has Utah taking on Indiana State. After losing in the PAC-12 Conference Tournament to Colorado, 58-72, the Utes have won three straight games in the NIT - all at home. Now they hit the road for Indianapolis to face Indiana State. The Utes beat UC-Irvine in the first round, 84-75, then Iowa, 91-82 and then last game over VCU, 74-54, as a 8-point favorite. They have also covered all three NIT games. Utah is 5-3 S/U and ATS in their eight overall tourney games this year. The Indiana State Sycamores have been on a great run. Even though they lost in their conference tourney to Drake, 80-84, They have won three straight NIT games. In addition they are 9-1 S/U and 6-3-1 ATS in their last 10 games. They have also scored 261 points in the NIT compared to just 234 allowed. They are also 8-1 S/U and 6-3 ATS in nine tourney games. I like Indiana State here tonight to move on to the Final Four of the NIT. Play Indiana State.

 Elite 8 South Regional Final from Dallas Texas has two old foes matching up as NC State takes on Duke. 11th-seed NC State Wolfpack won the ACC conference tournament over North Carolina, 84-76, as a 10-point dog. The Pack has now won eight straight games and covered six of the last eight. That includes NCAA tourney wins over Texas Tech, 80-67, then Oakland, 79-73, and last game over Marquette, 67-58, as a 7.5-point dog. They are now 9-1 S/U and 6-4 ATS in their 10 tourney games this year. They also average 76.3 ppg while allowing 72.2 ppg. Duke looks to return to the Final Four after their three wins in the NCAA tournament. They opened with a win over Vermont, 64-47, then beat James Madison, 93-55, and last game over Houston, 54-51, as a 4-point dog. Duke lost to NC State in the ACC conference tournament, 69-74, as a 11-point favorite. Still, the Blue Devils have won 11 of the last 14 games. They are also 11-3 ATS during that stretch. The Blue Devils are 6-1 S/U and 4-3 ATS in their seven tourney games this year. They average 79 ppg while allowing 66 ppg. NC State has been on an incredible run. I look for that to continue here today. Play NC State.