Longwood vs. Houston Picks and Predictions – Friday, Mar. 22

Mar 15, 2024; Kansas City, MO, USA; Houston Cougars guard Jamal Shead (1) brings the ball up court during the first half against the Texas Tech Red Raiders at T-Mobile Center.
Image Credit: William Purnell-USA TODAY Sports

We have your Longwood Lancers vs. Houston Cougars prop betting and game preview needs covered as the Longwood Lancers hit the road to face the Houston Cougars.

The Houston Cougars (30-4) are set to face the Longwood Lancers (21-13) in a highly anticipated NCAA tournament matchup. With Houston’s impressive season record and top-notch defense going up against Longwood’s commendable offensive efforts, this game is shaping up to be a classic David vs. Goliath battle.

Longwood Lancers vs. Houston Cougars Odds Info

Moneyline: Longwood Lancers +1650 (Bet365) / Houston Cougars -4000 (DraftKings)

Spread: -23.5 – Longwood Lancers -105 (Barstool) / Houston Cougars -110 (BetPARX)

Total: 128.0 – -109 (BetPARX) / -110 (DraftKings)

Game Info

Date: Friday, Mar. 22

Time: 08:20 PM

Location: FedExForum – Memphis, TN

TV: TNT

Longwood Lancers Betting Trends

  • On the road, Longwood Lancers are 5 and 10 this season.
  • Against the spread this season, Longwood Lancers are 16 and 15.
  • Against the spread on the road, Longwood Lancers are 9 and 9.

Houston Cougars Betting Trends

  • At home, Houston Cougars are 17 and 0 this season.
  • Against the spread this season, Houston Cougars are 16 and 16.
  • Against the spread at home, Houston Cougars are 13 and 7.

Longwood Lancers vs. Houston Cougars Predictions

The Houston Cougars enter the tournament with a formidable defense that has been the cornerstone of their success this season. Ranking 1st in the nation in points allowed, they have consistently stifled their opponents’ scoring efforts. The Cougars’ offense, while not as dominant, is still potent, averaging 73.0 points per game. Key players like guard L.J. Cryer, who leads the team with 15.3 points per game, and Jamal Shead, known for his playmaking abilities with 6.2 assists per game, will be crucial in establishing Houston’s rhythm early on.

On the other side, the Longwood Lancers have had a respectable season, with an offense that averages 75.6 points per game. Guard Walyn Napper, averaging 14.6 points and 4.6 assists per game, has been a standout performer and will need to continue his offensive prowess against Houston’s defense. The Lancers will also rely on forward Michael Christmas to control the boards, as he leads the team with 6.2 rebounds per game. Longwood’s ability to compete with Houston’s size and physicality will be a key factor in their performance.

While Houston is the clear favorite, March Madness is known for its unpredictability and upsets. The Cougars will look to avoid complacency after a recent loss in their conference tournament final, while the Lancers will aim to capitalize on any opportunity to make a statement. This game will not only test Houston’s defense against Longwood’s offense but also showcase individual matchups that could turn the tide. As both teams prepare for the clash, fans can expect a game filled with intensity and high stakes.

Longwood Lancers vs. Houston Cougars Pick

The Houston Cougars have established themselves as a defensive powerhouse, leading the nation in points allowed and demonstrating an ability to shut down even the most potent offenses. With a game total line set at 128.0, the under is a compelling pick, especially considering Houston’s recent trend towards low-scoring affairs, with unders hitting in four of their last five games. Furthermore, Houston’s methodical pace of play and disciplined defense are likely to limit Longwood’s scoring opportunities, making it challenging for the Lancers to contribute significantly to the total points. The Cougars’ own offensive efficiency, while respectable, is not explosive enough to single-handedly push the game over the total, especially against a Longwood team that will be determined to slow down the tempo and minimize possessions. Given these factors, and Houston’s impressive home record of unders hitting in 14 of their home games, the under seems to be the prudent choice for this matchup.

The Pick: Under 128.0 -109 (BetPARX)