The Connecticut Huskies (31-3) are set to host the Northwestern Wildcats (21-11) in a high-stakes showdown at the Barclays Center. With a spot in the Sweet 16 on the line, the top-seeded Huskies aim to leverage their impressive season record and home-court advantage against the Wildcats, who are eager to continue their NCAA Tournament journey.
Northwestern Wildcats vs. Connecticut Huskies Odds Info
Moneyline: Northwestern Wildcats +800 (FanDuel) / Connecticut Huskies -1100 (Bet365)
Spread: -14.0 – Northwestern Wildcats -108 (BetPARX) / Connecticut Huskies -110 (PointsBet)
Total: 135.5 – -110 (PointsBet) / -110 (PointsBet)
Game Info
Date: Sunday, Mar. 24
Time: 06:45 PM
Location: Barclays Center – Brooklyn, NY
TV: truTV
Northwestern Wildcats Betting Trends
- On the road, Northwestern Wildcats are 4 and 7 this season.
- Against the spread this season, Northwestern Wildcats are 18 and 13.
- Against the spread on the road, Northwestern Wildcats are 8 and 4.
Connecticut Huskies Betting Trends
- At home, Connecticut Huskies are 16 and 0 this season.
- Against the spread this season, Connecticut Huskies are 22 and 12.
- Against the spread at home, Connecticut Huskies are 12 and 8.
Northwestern Wildcats vs. Connecticut Huskies Predictions
The Connecticut Huskies enter the game as the clear favorites, boasting a formidable 31-3 record and a dominant home record. The Huskies have been particularly impressive in their last 10 games, winning 9 and losing just once, showcasing their offensive prowess and defensive solidity. With a balanced attack led by guard Tristen Newton and big man Donovan Clingan, UConn’s offense has been a force to reckon with, ranking high in efficiency and shooting percentages. Defensively, they’ve been just as imposing, limiting opponents’ scoring opportunities and controlling the boards.
On the other side, the Northwestern Wildcats, with a 21-11 record, have had a respectable season and have shown they can compete with the best, as evidenced by their recent performances. The Wildcats’ slower pace and methodical approach to the game have served them well, particularly in tight contests. Guard Boo Buie has been the catalyst for their offense, and his ability to take over games will be crucial against UConn’s stout defense. Northwestern’s ability to shoot from beyond the arc could also play a significant role, as they rank highly in three-point shooting percentage.
The key matchup to watch will be between UConn’s Clingan and Northwestern’s frontline. Clingan’s presence in the paint on both ends of the floor could be a game-changer, but Northwestern’s team-oriented defense and disciplined play could neutralize his impact. Additionally, the battle of the backcourts will be pivotal, with Newton’s playmaking and scoring against Buie’s dynamic offensive skills. As both teams vie for a spot in the Sweet 16, expect a clash of styles where execution and adjustments will determine the victor.
Northwestern Wildcats vs. Connecticut Huskies Pick
Given the defensive prowess of both teams and their recent trends, the under is the most compelling pick for this matchup. The Connecticut Huskies have been a defensive juggernaut, especially at home where they are undefeated this season. Their ability to limit opponents’ scoring and control the pace of the game has often resulted in lower-scoring affairs, as evidenced by the fact that the total has gone under in 4 of their last 5 games. Furthermore, the Huskies’ methodical offense, despite being efficient, does not rush possessions, which contributes to fewer overall scoring opportunities for both teams. On the other side, the Northwestern Wildcats have also shown a preference for a slower, more deliberate style of play. Their emphasis on defense and three-point shooting suggests that they will look to control the tempo and keep the game within reach. With a strong defensive showing from both sides and a slower pace of play, it’s likely that the total will stay under the line set by oddsmakers.
The Pick: Under 135.5 -110 (PointsBet)
