TUESDAY SERVICE PLAYS 3/18
- Thread starter donlauer
- Start date
Larry Ness
CBI 1st Round
The all-new CBI tourney tips off tonight with four games and similar to the NIT (and likely more so), a school's motivation is key. So many times we've seen in the past where schools have felt slighted by the NCAA committee and then "mailed in" their first NIT game. Could that be the case in the CBI, as well? Now it's safe to say Brown is excited to be here. The Bears' second-year head coach (Craig Robinson) may have gotten more 'ink' this year for being Barack Obama's brother-in-law but he's done an excellent job. He took over a program which had won just 12 games per season in the previous three years and after an 11-18 (6-8) mark last year, went 19-9 (11-3) this season. As for Ohio U, the Bobcats' 19-12 (9-7) season has to be considered a disappointment, especially losing to hated Miami-Ohio 74-61 in the MAC tourney. That being said, Athens is not "big time" CBB and Ohio certainly has a chance to do very well in the CBI, considering the field. Brown shoots an impressive 47.4 percent from the floor as a team, led by guards McAndrew (16.5-5.0) and Huffman (14.9-3.1). However, the Bears start a frontcourt of two 6-5 players, Sullivan (8.7-2.7) and Skrelja (8.6-6.7) plus the 6-7 Friske (3.9-3.3). The 6-9 MacDonald (6.4) comes off the bench as does the 6-8 Mullery (4.7-3.0), although he's listed as questionable in this game. Ohio's backcourt will be tested but the trio of Walther (12.1-3.5 APG), Whittington (8.0) and Allen (4.5-4.5 APG) have seen and matched up well against, much tougher competition than this. Note that Ohio's non-conference schedule included games with New Mex St, Temple, Maryland, Kansas, St Mary's, George Mason and Ivy League champ, Cornell (more on that later). Note that FOUR of those schools are in the "Big Dance," along with Kent St of the MAC, which Ohio U beat here in Athens, 71-59. Ohio's frontcourt tandem of the 6-8 Williams (16.2-9.7) and the 6-6 Tillman (13.2-7.4) figures to be awfully tough on Brown and the Bears know it. Cornell, which went through the Ivy League regular season 14-0, visited Athens back on Nov 17, losing 102-89. The Big Red lost by 13 points, despite shooting 49.2 percent as a team, including 12-of-28 on three pointers. It's unlikely that Brown will shoot that well and like Cornell, Brown will have no way of stopping Williams and Tillman who had games of 28 points and 15 rebounds (Williams) and 21 points and eight rebounds (Tillman) against Cornell. Ohio struggles on the road this year, averaging just about 60.0 PPG but at home, the Bobcats averaged 75.0 PPG, while going 12-1 SU and 10-3 ATS. The team's lone home loss came vs Akron, when the Zips shot 60.4 percent from three floor and still Ohio lost by just three. This one is a rout by the home side! CBI 1st Round
GOY Ohio U
Oddsmaker's Error
Sports often offers us some unique symmetry. A case in point would be this year's Coppin St team, which becomes the 20th school in NCAA history to qualify for the NCAA tournament with a losing record. So I guess it is only fitting that the Eagles enter this year's tourney with 20 losses (16 wins), the most ever in a men's tournament. As everyone knows, Coppin State won 12 of its last 13 games, including four straight in the MEAC tourney (by a grand total of just SIX points!) to get here. Mount St Mary's will be its opponent in the play-in game. The Mountaineers also peeked at the right time, winning eight of their final nine games. As opposed to Coppin State, Mount St Mary's won all three of its Northeast tourney games by 10, 18 (over regular season champ Morgan St) and by 13 points (over Sacred Heart in the title game). Coppin St owns just one double digit scorer in guard McKee (16.6-4.3-3.1). Mount St Mary's counters with an excellent guard duo in Vann (14.4) and Goode (14.3-3.3-5.5). The Mountaineers also have freshman guard Jean Cajou (6.9) coming off the bench. Cajou scored 48 points in the just completed Northeast tourney, winning MVP honors. Neither team has much size, as no starters are bigger than 6-7. While both schools come in hot, it's fair to say that on paper, Mount St Marty's looks like the stronger team, especially considering its play in the Northeast tourney. All three of its wins came by double digits while Coppin St won its games by one, one (in overtime), two and two points. However, let's look at Coppin State's entire season. The Eagles opened 2-0 but then lost 19 of their next 21 games. However, a check of their schedule shows the team's first two losses came at Kent St and then at Xavier. From Dec 8 through Dec 27, the school lost at Arizona St, Ohio St, Dayton, Marquette, Indiana and Missouri. Now that's a schedule and I'm sure the school pocketed some nice "pay days." However, it also gave these players some 'big time" experience. So maybe the team's 12-1 run to end the year shouldn't be so much of a surprise? In comparison, a check of Mount St Mary's schedule shows nowhere near the level of competition Coppin State faced during its non-conference games. Look closely at the Mountaineers resume and you'll notice only Oregon and Oklahoma as big-name competitors. On the sidelines, Mount St Mary's is no longer led by coaching legend Jim Phelan, who was on the bench for 49 years, winning 830 career games. Instead, it's Milan Brown, who just completed his first winning season, after going 41-76 (.350) in his first four years. For Coppin St, "Fang" Mitchell is in his 22nd year of coaching (all at Coppin) and leads the Eagles to their fourth NCAA appearance. The last time was in 1997 and the Eagles upset No. 2 seed South Carolina, 78-65. Think that was a fluke? In the very next game Coppin lost 82-81 to Texas. I'll also note that NCAA play-in games in '02, '03, '04 and '05 featured teams with losing records. Each time, those schools won! Deja vu? You bet.
Oddsmaker's Error
Coppin State
CBI 1st Round
The all-new CBI tourney tips off tonight with four games and similar to the NIT (and likely more so), a school's motivation is key. So many times we've seen in the past where schools have felt slighted by the NCAA committee and then "mailed in" their first NIT game. Could that be the case in the CBI, as well? Now it's safe to say Brown is excited to be here. The Bears' second-year head coach (Craig Robinson) may have gotten more 'ink' this year for being Barack Obama's brother-in-law but he's done an excellent job. He took over a program which had won just 12 games per season in the previous three years and after an 11-18 (6-8) mark last year, went 19-9 (11-3) this season. As for Ohio U, the Bobcats' 19-12 (9-7) season has to be considered a disappointment, especially losing to hated Miami-Ohio 74-61 in the MAC tourney. That being said, Athens is not "big time" CBB and Ohio certainly has a chance to do very well in the CBI, considering the field. Brown shoots an impressive 47.4 percent from the floor as a team, led by guards McAndrew (16.5-5.0) and Huffman (14.9-3.1). However, the Bears start a frontcourt of two 6-5 players, Sullivan (8.7-2.7) and Skrelja (8.6-6.7) plus the 6-7 Friske (3.9-3.3). The 6-9 MacDonald (6.4) comes off the bench as does the 6-8 Mullery (4.7-3.0), although he's listed as questionable in this game. Ohio's backcourt will be tested but the trio of Walther (12.1-3.5 APG), Whittington (8.0) and Allen (4.5-4.5 APG) have seen and matched up well against, much tougher competition than this. Note that Ohio's non-conference schedule included games with New Mex St, Temple, Maryland, Kansas, St Mary's, George Mason and Ivy League champ, Cornell (more on that later). Note that FOUR of those schools are in the "Big Dance," along with Kent St of the MAC, which Ohio U beat here in Athens, 71-59. Ohio's frontcourt tandem of the 6-8 Williams (16.2-9.7) and the 6-6 Tillman (13.2-7.4) figures to be awfully tough on Brown and the Bears know it. Cornell, which went through the Ivy League regular season 14-0, visited Athens back on Nov 17, losing 102-89. The Big Red lost by 13 points, despite shooting 49.2 percent as a team, including 12-of-28 on three pointers. It's unlikely that Brown will shoot that well and like Cornell, Brown will have no way of stopping Williams and Tillman who had games of 28 points and 15 rebounds (Williams) and 21 points and eight rebounds (Tillman) against Cornell. Ohio struggles on the road this year, averaging just about 60.0 PPG but at home, the Bobcats averaged 75.0 PPG, while going 12-1 SU and 10-3 ATS. The team's lone home loss came vs Akron, when the Zips shot 60.4 percent from three floor and still Ohio lost by just three. This one is a rout by the home side! CBI 1st Round
GOY Ohio U
Oddsmaker's Error
Sports often offers us some unique symmetry. A case in point would be this year's Coppin St team, which becomes the 20th school in NCAA history to qualify for the NCAA tournament with a losing record. So I guess it is only fitting that the Eagles enter this year's tourney with 20 losses (16 wins), the most ever in a men's tournament. As everyone knows, Coppin State won 12 of its last 13 games, including four straight in the MEAC tourney (by a grand total of just SIX points!) to get here. Mount St Mary's will be its opponent in the play-in game. The Mountaineers also peeked at the right time, winning eight of their final nine games. As opposed to Coppin State, Mount St Mary's won all three of its Northeast tourney games by 10, 18 (over regular season champ Morgan St) and by 13 points (over Sacred Heart in the title game). Coppin St owns just one double digit scorer in guard McKee (16.6-4.3-3.1). Mount St Mary's counters with an excellent guard duo in Vann (14.4) and Goode (14.3-3.3-5.5). The Mountaineers also have freshman guard Jean Cajou (6.9) coming off the bench. Cajou scored 48 points in the just completed Northeast tourney, winning MVP honors. Neither team has much size, as no starters are bigger than 6-7. While both schools come in hot, it's fair to say that on paper, Mount St Marty's looks like the stronger team, especially considering its play in the Northeast tourney. All three of its wins came by double digits while Coppin St won its games by one, one (in overtime), two and two points. However, let's look at Coppin State's entire season. The Eagles opened 2-0 but then lost 19 of their next 21 games. However, a check of their schedule shows the team's first two losses came at Kent St and then at Xavier. From Dec 8 through Dec 27, the school lost at Arizona St, Ohio St, Dayton, Marquette, Indiana and Missouri. Now that's a schedule and I'm sure the school pocketed some nice "pay days." However, it also gave these players some 'big time" experience. So maybe the team's 12-1 run to end the year shouldn't be so much of a surprise? In comparison, a check of Mount St Mary's schedule shows nowhere near the level of competition Coppin State faced during its non-conference games. Look closely at the Mountaineers resume and you'll notice only Oregon and Oklahoma as big-name competitors. On the sidelines, Mount St Mary's is no longer led by coaching legend Jim Phelan, who was on the bench for 49 years, winning 830 career games. Instead, it's Milan Brown, who just completed his first winning season, after going 41-76 (.350) in his first four years. For Coppin St, "Fang" Mitchell is in his 22nd year of coaching (all at Coppin) and leads the Eagles to their fourth NCAA appearance. The last time was in 1997 and the Eagles upset No. 2 seed South Carolina, 78-65. Think that was a fluke? In the very next game Coppin lost 82-81 to Texas. I'll also note that NCAA play-in games in '02, '03, '04 and '05 featured teams with losing records. Each time, those schools won! Deja vu? You bet.
Oddsmaker's Error
Coppin State
Brandon Lang
10 DIME
Rockets
Florida State
5 DIME
Oklahoma State
Maryland
FREE - Stephen F. Austin
10 DIME
Rockets
Florida State
5 DIME
Oklahoma State
Maryland
FREE - Stephen F. Austin
WINNERS EDGE
NBA:
NJ Nets + 5 , 2 units
CBB:
Mt St Marys - 7 , 2 units
Rhode Island + 7 , 2 units
Akron + 7.5 , 1 unit
NBA:
NJ Nets + 5 , 2 units
CBB:
Mt St Marys - 7 , 2 units
Rhode Island + 7 , 2 units
Akron + 7.5 , 1 unit
Comps
NBA
Denver at DETROIT (-6) Joel Tyson
Don?t expect another 168-point performance tonight, as the Nuggets must now travel to take on the NBA?s best defensive team in my opinion.
The Nuggets have managed to cover just four times out of the last 15 match ups with the Pistons, and with Detroit only allowing 90.3 points per game to be scored against them I feel the Nuggets will be unable to cash in tonight. Detroit has beaten this Nugget team three straight games, and eight of the last 10 overall.
Despite Denver winning their last three, I still like the Pistons who have posted two straight wins, and wins in four of their last five overall, as I feel the Detroit Piston defense will clamp down, allowing them to get the win and cover.
2♦ DETROIT
New Jersey at CHICAGO (-5) Chuck Franklin
My Free Pick winner last night was the Indiana Pacers in an Absolute Blowout of the lowly New York Knicks. That's now a 17-11 Free Pick run!
Last night I went against the Chicago Bulls playing on the road at New Orleans. That was another 1500♦ in the bank as the Hornets won and easily covered, finishing the game on a 24-4 run. I will cash the ticket tonight taking the Bulls as they come back home and beat the Nets by double-digits.
The Nets have won only two of the last eight games played and they are only 11-21 on the road this season, losing seven straight away from home. The Bulls have lost four of the last five, but they will take care of business in this Eastern Conference clash. Chicago has double-revenge for two losses to the Nets already this season. The Bulls have won three of the last four when hosting New Jersey.
The Nets are 3-14-1 ATS their last 18 road games and the Bulls are 5-2 ATS their last seven home games. Chicago has covered the spread in 11 of the last 14 games after a loss and New Jersey is 1-5 ATS the last six played after a win.
This will be an absolute blowout!
3♦ CHICAGO
L.A. Lakers at DALLAS (-5) Chris Jordan
Look for the Mavericks to make it six straight on the hardwood and at the window, snapping a five-game losing streak to potential playoff teams when they host the Lakers tonight.
I realize Dallas? winning streak has come against Eastern Conference teams with losing records, including Sunday?s 98-73 rout of Miami, and the Mavs are 0-5 (2-3 ATS) against Western Conference playoff contenders since acquiring all-star guard Jason Kidd, but this is the perfect opportunity to regain some confidence with roughly three weeks left in the season.
Los Angeles comes into this one off a 104-92 thumping in Houston, marking the Lakers? third loss in four games ? and fourth straight versus the books ? not to mention their second consecutive during a four-game road trip against Western Conference teams in playoff contention.
These two have split two games this season with the home team winning each outing. The host is on runs of 7-1 SU and 5-3 ATS run in this series, while the straight-up winner is 7-3 ATS in the last 10. And if you ask me, the Mavericks are poised for the win here. Lay the number with Dallas.
2♦ MAVERICKS
L.A. Lakers at DALLAS (-4') Bobby Maxwell
Hit our NBA FREE play on Monday when the Jazz got the win and cover over the Raptors. Today we're in Dallas for a complimentary play on the Mavericks as they host the Lakers.
The Mavericks have got some momentum going with five straight wins while the Lakers have lost three of four and failed to cover in four straight.
Dallas went to Miami and crushed the Heat 98-73 as a 15 1/2-point favorite on Sunday and have gotten healthy on the dregs of the Eastern Conference, winning those five straight and covering the number each time.
The Mavs are on ATS runs of 9-0 on a days rest, 6-0 following a SU win and 5-0 as a favorite. The lakers meanwhile are struggling with ATS marks of 0-6 against teams with a winning record, 0-5-1 against the Southwest Division and 1-4 on a day of rest.
The home team has won each of the two games these two have played this season, including the 112-105 win by the Mavs back on Jan. 25 when they pushed as seven-point favorites. The home team is 7-1 SU (4-3-1 ATS) in this series.
Los Angeles is struggling to cope with the injury to Pau Gasol as they just don't seem to have enough offense to get the job done. The Mavs are at home and getting fat against undermanned squads. Let's play the Mavericks to use that momentum to get the 10-point win in this one.
3♦ DALLAS
NCAA
Akron (+8) at FLORIDA STATE Chris Jordan
I am going to take a shot with the Mid American Conference-entry Zips here, as they come in with more wins, less losses and a solid shot at winning this one outright. Akron (23-10 SU and 16-12 ATS) won 10 of 17 on the highway this season, while covering nine of 15 with a suitcase in hand.
Akron played some decent non-conference competition, knocking off Temple and Wyoming early on, while challenging Dayton on the road just before conference play began. Akron has generally been a team that can play defense when it?s put to the test, and this is certainly a final exam.
The Seminoles may be 13-4 SU at home, but they?ve covered only five of 14 in Tallahassee. Look for Akron to push the ball in this one, force the tempo and keep the Noles guessing on defense.
4♦ AKRON
Oklahoma State at SOUTHERN ILLINOIS (-5?) Joel Tyson
Southern Illinois has always been fun to watch in the Big Dance, they should be equally as fun tonight when they welcome in the Cowboy?s of Oklahoma State in this first round NIT match up.
The Salukis come in 17-14 on the year, and 11-8 in conference play, while OSU enters 17-15 overall, and ended 8-10 in their conference.
Southern Illinois has covered seven times in their last 11 homes games, and I fully expect them to improve on this mark tonight.
Both teams pretty much mirror each other from an offensive output per game standpoint, as the Salukis are averaging 65.0 points per game over their last five, while the Cowboys are posting an average of 62 points per game over the same span. Defensively though I like Southern Illinois who has allowed only 53.4 points per game to be scored against them over their last five, compared to OSU that has allowed 66.2 points per game over their last five.
Southern Illinois currently is shooting free throws at a rate of 74.4% while OSU shoots at a rate of 65%. Two things win tournament games, free throw shooting and defense, and right now Southern Illinois is better in both.
Play the Salukis for the win and cover.
3♦ SOUTHERN ILLINOIS
Rhode Island at CREIGHTON (-7) Karl Garrett
Winner from the G-Man last night, as the Pacers stepped it up in the 4th quarter for me. Now 5-1 my last 6 comp releases.
Going to lay the points tonight at Creighton, as I have a feeling the Rhode Island Rams are going to be in over their heads at this tough venue.
The Blue Jays went a solid 15-2 straight up on their own hardwood, and went 8-5 against the spread in their lined home games.
Rhode Island went just 6-9-1 against the spread away from Kingston, and you talk about a free fall...the Rams come into this game off losses in 7 of their last 9 straight up, covering just once in that span against the spread.
Just too many negatives coming into this game on URI's side, so the G-Man is going to lay the lumber in this first round NIT meeting tonight.
3♦ CREIGHTON
Rhode Island at CREIGHTON (-7) Chuck Franklin
My Free Pick winner last night was the Indiana Pacers in an Absolute Blowout of the lowly New York Knicks. That's now a 17-11 Free Pick run!
ll be an easy winner! They have covered the spread four of the last five home games and they are 5-2 ATS the last seven non-conference games. The Bluejays will win by double-digits.
Rhode Island has to travel a long way on short notice and they are an awful road team as it is. As a matter of fact, the Rams are only 1-8 ATS the last nine games played overall. On the road they are on a 1-4 ATS run. They are 1-8 ATS the last nine games played after a loss.
This will be an absolute blowout!
3♦ CREIGHTON
Alabama State (+19) at ARIZONA STATE Bobby Maxwel
Taking our shot in the CBI Tournament today as we grab the points with Alabama State as they take on Arizona State.
Everybody thinks Arizona State was robbed and deserved an invitation to the Big Dance. The Sun Devils have everybody doing their crying for them, saying how they deserved to be dancing and rival Arizona should be in the NIT.
But all this crying is going to do is help Arizona State produce a lackluster performance tonight. The Sun Devils will likely win the game but not cover this huge number. Arizona State lost five of their last eight games.
Alabama State won six of their last seven games but lost to Jackson State in the SWAC semifinal 77-72 in OT. The can certainly play defense, giving up 65.4 points a game and 38.6 percent shooting in their last five. And while the Hornets might be disappointed they're not in the big dance, they've got to be excited just to still be playing.
Look for a lackluster first half and Arizona State to get the job done in the second half. But they're just not going to have enough to cover this number. Grab the points and play Alabama State in this NIT late game.
4♦ ALABAMA STATE
Richmond (+12') at VIRGINIA Sports Gambling Hotline
Another college basketball tournament gets underway tonight, as Richmond and Virginia tangle in the CBI this evening in Charlotteville.
With both teams sporting fairly similar records, we just don't see a dozen points or so separating these schools tonight.
Virginia went a non-impressive 7-5 against the spread at home this season, and are just 3-3 against the spread their last 6 when favored.
Richmond's last 2 games both came against Big Dance bound schools, as the Spiders were indeed blasted by both St. Joseph's, and Xavier. Still, the Spiders went a decent 8-6-1 against the spread on the road this year, and it is not like they are traveling cross country for tonight's contest.
We say grab the generous points, and look for Richmond to prove sticky in this first round meeting with the Cavaliers.
Play on the Spiders.
3♦ RICHMOND
NBA
Denver at DETROIT (-6) Joel Tyson
Don?t expect another 168-point performance tonight, as the Nuggets must now travel to take on the NBA?s best defensive team in my opinion.
The Nuggets have managed to cover just four times out of the last 15 match ups with the Pistons, and with Detroit only allowing 90.3 points per game to be scored against them I feel the Nuggets will be unable to cash in tonight. Detroit has beaten this Nugget team three straight games, and eight of the last 10 overall.
Despite Denver winning their last three, I still like the Pistons who have posted two straight wins, and wins in four of their last five overall, as I feel the Detroit Piston defense will clamp down, allowing them to get the win and cover.
2♦ DETROIT
New Jersey at CHICAGO (-5) Chuck Franklin
My Free Pick winner last night was the Indiana Pacers in an Absolute Blowout of the lowly New York Knicks. That's now a 17-11 Free Pick run!
Last night I went against the Chicago Bulls playing on the road at New Orleans. That was another 1500♦ in the bank as the Hornets won and easily covered, finishing the game on a 24-4 run. I will cash the ticket tonight taking the Bulls as they come back home and beat the Nets by double-digits.
The Nets have won only two of the last eight games played and they are only 11-21 on the road this season, losing seven straight away from home. The Bulls have lost four of the last five, but they will take care of business in this Eastern Conference clash. Chicago has double-revenge for two losses to the Nets already this season. The Bulls have won three of the last four when hosting New Jersey.
The Nets are 3-14-1 ATS their last 18 road games and the Bulls are 5-2 ATS their last seven home games. Chicago has covered the spread in 11 of the last 14 games after a loss and New Jersey is 1-5 ATS the last six played after a win.
This will be an absolute blowout!
3♦ CHICAGO
L.A. Lakers at DALLAS (-5) Chris Jordan
Look for the Mavericks to make it six straight on the hardwood and at the window, snapping a five-game losing streak to potential playoff teams when they host the Lakers tonight.
I realize Dallas? winning streak has come against Eastern Conference teams with losing records, including Sunday?s 98-73 rout of Miami, and the Mavs are 0-5 (2-3 ATS) against Western Conference playoff contenders since acquiring all-star guard Jason Kidd, but this is the perfect opportunity to regain some confidence with roughly three weeks left in the season.
Los Angeles comes into this one off a 104-92 thumping in Houston, marking the Lakers? third loss in four games ? and fourth straight versus the books ? not to mention their second consecutive during a four-game road trip against Western Conference teams in playoff contention.
These two have split two games this season with the home team winning each outing. The host is on runs of 7-1 SU and 5-3 ATS run in this series, while the straight-up winner is 7-3 ATS in the last 10. And if you ask me, the Mavericks are poised for the win here. Lay the number with Dallas.
2♦ MAVERICKS
L.A. Lakers at DALLAS (-4') Bobby Maxwell
Hit our NBA FREE play on Monday when the Jazz got the win and cover over the Raptors. Today we're in Dallas for a complimentary play on the Mavericks as they host the Lakers.
The Mavericks have got some momentum going with five straight wins while the Lakers have lost three of four and failed to cover in four straight.
Dallas went to Miami and crushed the Heat 98-73 as a 15 1/2-point favorite on Sunday and have gotten healthy on the dregs of the Eastern Conference, winning those five straight and covering the number each time.
The Mavs are on ATS runs of 9-0 on a days rest, 6-0 following a SU win and 5-0 as a favorite. The lakers meanwhile are struggling with ATS marks of 0-6 against teams with a winning record, 0-5-1 against the Southwest Division and 1-4 on a day of rest.
The home team has won each of the two games these two have played this season, including the 112-105 win by the Mavs back on Jan. 25 when they pushed as seven-point favorites. The home team is 7-1 SU (4-3-1 ATS) in this series.
Los Angeles is struggling to cope with the injury to Pau Gasol as they just don't seem to have enough offense to get the job done. The Mavs are at home and getting fat against undermanned squads. Let's play the Mavericks to use that momentum to get the 10-point win in this one.
3♦ DALLAS
NCAA
Akron (+8) at FLORIDA STATE Chris Jordan
I am going to take a shot with the Mid American Conference-entry Zips here, as they come in with more wins, less losses and a solid shot at winning this one outright. Akron (23-10 SU and 16-12 ATS) won 10 of 17 on the highway this season, while covering nine of 15 with a suitcase in hand.
Akron played some decent non-conference competition, knocking off Temple and Wyoming early on, while challenging Dayton on the road just before conference play began. Akron has generally been a team that can play defense when it?s put to the test, and this is certainly a final exam.
The Seminoles may be 13-4 SU at home, but they?ve covered only five of 14 in Tallahassee. Look for Akron to push the ball in this one, force the tempo and keep the Noles guessing on defense.
4♦ AKRON
Oklahoma State at SOUTHERN ILLINOIS (-5?) Joel Tyson
Southern Illinois has always been fun to watch in the Big Dance, they should be equally as fun tonight when they welcome in the Cowboy?s of Oklahoma State in this first round NIT match up.
The Salukis come in 17-14 on the year, and 11-8 in conference play, while OSU enters 17-15 overall, and ended 8-10 in their conference.
Southern Illinois has covered seven times in their last 11 homes games, and I fully expect them to improve on this mark tonight.
Both teams pretty much mirror each other from an offensive output per game standpoint, as the Salukis are averaging 65.0 points per game over their last five, while the Cowboys are posting an average of 62 points per game over the same span. Defensively though I like Southern Illinois who has allowed only 53.4 points per game to be scored against them over their last five, compared to OSU that has allowed 66.2 points per game over their last five.
Southern Illinois currently is shooting free throws at a rate of 74.4% while OSU shoots at a rate of 65%. Two things win tournament games, free throw shooting and defense, and right now Southern Illinois is better in both.
Play the Salukis for the win and cover.
3♦ SOUTHERN ILLINOIS
Rhode Island at CREIGHTON (-7) Karl Garrett
Winner from the G-Man last night, as the Pacers stepped it up in the 4th quarter for me. Now 5-1 my last 6 comp releases.
Going to lay the points tonight at Creighton, as I have a feeling the Rhode Island Rams are going to be in over their heads at this tough venue.
The Blue Jays went a solid 15-2 straight up on their own hardwood, and went 8-5 against the spread in their lined home games.
Rhode Island went just 6-9-1 against the spread away from Kingston, and you talk about a free fall...the Rams come into this game off losses in 7 of their last 9 straight up, covering just once in that span against the spread.
Just too many negatives coming into this game on URI's side, so the G-Man is going to lay the lumber in this first round NIT meeting tonight.
3♦ CREIGHTON
Rhode Island at CREIGHTON (-7) Chuck Franklin
My Free Pick winner last night was the Indiana Pacers in an Absolute Blowout of the lowly New York Knicks. That's now a 17-11 Free Pick run!
ll be an easy winner! They have covered the spread four of the last five home games and they are 5-2 ATS the last seven non-conference games. The Bluejays will win by double-digits.
Rhode Island has to travel a long way on short notice and they are an awful road team as it is. As a matter of fact, the Rams are only 1-8 ATS the last nine games played overall. On the road they are on a 1-4 ATS run. They are 1-8 ATS the last nine games played after a loss.
This will be an absolute blowout!
3♦ CREIGHTON
Alabama State (+19) at ARIZONA STATE Bobby Maxwel
Taking our shot in the CBI Tournament today as we grab the points with Alabama State as they take on Arizona State.
Everybody thinks Arizona State was robbed and deserved an invitation to the Big Dance. The Sun Devils have everybody doing their crying for them, saying how they deserved to be dancing and rival Arizona should be in the NIT.
But all this crying is going to do is help Arizona State produce a lackluster performance tonight. The Sun Devils will likely win the game but not cover this huge number. Arizona State lost five of their last eight games.
Alabama State won six of their last seven games but lost to Jackson State in the SWAC semifinal 77-72 in OT. The can certainly play defense, giving up 65.4 points a game and 38.6 percent shooting in their last five. And while the Hornets might be disappointed they're not in the big dance, they've got to be excited just to still be playing.
Look for a lackluster first half and Arizona State to get the job done in the second half. But they're just not going to have enough to cover this number. Grab the points and play Alabama State in this NIT late game.
4♦ ALABAMA STATE
Richmond (+12') at VIRGINIA Sports Gambling Hotline
Another college basketball tournament gets underway tonight, as Richmond and Virginia tangle in the CBI this evening in Charlotteville.
With both teams sporting fairly similar records, we just don't see a dozen points or so separating these schools tonight.
Virginia went a non-impressive 7-5 against the spread at home this season, and are just 3-3 against the spread their last 6 when favored.
Richmond's last 2 games both came against Big Dance bound schools, as the Spiders were indeed blasted by both St. Joseph's, and Xavier. Still, the Spiders went a decent 8-6-1 against the spread on the road this year, and it is not like they are traveling cross country for tonight's contest.
We say grab the generous points, and look for Richmond to prove sticky in this first round meeting with the Cavaliers.
Play on the Spiders.
3♦ RICHMOND
Nelly
FREE NIT PICK - March 18
#601 Alabama State + over Arizona State
Arizona State has been the team bringing the most complaints from the media about the bracket and it will be tough for the Sun Devils to play a great game in the opening NIT round after such dejection and resentment. The bottom line is that Arizona played a very weak non-conference schedule and played poorly down the stretch, losing ten of the final 15 games of the season. Alabama State lost in overtime in the semifinals of the SWAC tournament to lose out on a chance at an NCAA bid despite going 15-3 in conference play in the regular season to win the conference title. The Hornets start five upper-classmen including and have great size with four starters over 6'5" including 7'1" junior Chief Kickingstallionsims. Alabama State was the top scoring team in the conference and also featured the lowest turnover average as well. The Hornets did not pull off any big upsets in non-conference play but lost by 14 or less in all but one game this season through a schedule that featured a SEC team, an ACC team, and four Conference USA teams. Even though Arizona State played several of the worst teams in the nation they often struggled to deliver blowout wins and it will be very tough to take out a veteran Alabama State team that will be more excited about this game.
Join Nelly's Sportsline as we take on the Play-In game Tuesday night between two teams that made great conference tournament runs to make up for marginal regular seasons. Both teams are playing well late in the season but we have uncovered a match-up advantage that should pay big dividends. Sign up to win with Nelly's Tuesday night for the first game and our first winner of the 2008 tournament.
James Patrick Sports
NCAA Tournament Play in Game (Dayton, Ohio)
Coppin State vs. Mount St. Mary 7:30 p.m. est. ESPN
The Eagles of Coppin State have been playing them close of late as evidenced by their past four wins by a total of only six points. The Mountaineers better be ready for the Eagles as they are a crowd favorite whenever they get to the Big Dance. Our Tuesday complimentary selection is #585 Coppin State Eagles.
Great Lakes Sports
NC Ashville at Ohio State 7:00PM EST Play on: Ohio State Buckeyes
The Ohio State Buckeyes are 48-42 ATS the last three years including 35-30 ATS the last three years in the role of a favorite. The Buckeyes is also 40-31 ATS when playing a team with a winning record the last three years, and 78-66 ATS at home the last three years. We look for the Ohio State Buckeyes to dismantle NC Ashville for the NIT home ATS Win & cover tonight.
Alex Smart
Game: Phoenix Coyotes vs. Edmonton Oilers
Game Time: 3/18/2008 9:35:00 PM
Prediction: Edmonton Oilers
The Edmonton Oilers prepare to take on a tired Phoenix Coyotes team off a hard fought 3-1 loss to Vancouver last night. The Coyotes, need wins to get in the final play off spot, and will be in desperation mode, but that will not be enough to notch a win, vs a surging Oilers team that has won 8 of their L9 home games , and is also on a quest for a post season appearance. Final notes & Key Trends: Coyotes goalie Ilya Bryzgalov is 1-3-0 with a 3.73 GAA in four career games against the Oilers, including two losses this season. The Coyotes are just 4 for their L33 PP opportunities, which is not a good omen for their chances tonight, against one of the leagues top power play killing units (84.7%) Play on the Oilers
Tom Freese
Blue Line Club College
Free Pick
Rhode Island vs. Creighton (10:00pm)
Creighton is 26-14 ATS off a conference game and they are 8-1 ATS after failing ATS in 3 of their last 4 games. The Bluejays are 4-1 ATS their last 5 home games and they are 6-2 ATS on Tuesday. Rhode Island is 4-11 ATS off a conference game and they are 1-8 ATS off a conference loss. The Rams are 3-15-1 after losing 4 or 5 of their last 6 games. PLAY ON CREIGHTON
FREE NIT PICK - March 18
#601 Alabama State + over Arizona State
Arizona State has been the team bringing the most complaints from the media about the bracket and it will be tough for the Sun Devils to play a great game in the opening NIT round after such dejection and resentment. The bottom line is that Arizona played a very weak non-conference schedule and played poorly down the stretch, losing ten of the final 15 games of the season. Alabama State lost in overtime in the semifinals of the SWAC tournament to lose out on a chance at an NCAA bid despite going 15-3 in conference play in the regular season to win the conference title. The Hornets start five upper-classmen including and have great size with four starters over 6'5" including 7'1" junior Chief Kickingstallionsims. Alabama State was the top scoring team in the conference and also featured the lowest turnover average as well. The Hornets did not pull off any big upsets in non-conference play but lost by 14 or less in all but one game this season through a schedule that featured a SEC team, an ACC team, and four Conference USA teams. Even though Arizona State played several of the worst teams in the nation they often struggled to deliver blowout wins and it will be very tough to take out a veteran Alabama State team that will be more excited about this game.
Join Nelly's Sportsline as we take on the Play-In game Tuesday night between two teams that made great conference tournament runs to make up for marginal regular seasons. Both teams are playing well late in the season but we have uncovered a match-up advantage that should pay big dividends. Sign up to win with Nelly's Tuesday night for the first game and our first winner of the 2008 tournament.
James Patrick Sports
NCAA Tournament Play in Game (Dayton, Ohio)
Coppin State vs. Mount St. Mary 7:30 p.m. est. ESPN
The Eagles of Coppin State have been playing them close of late as evidenced by their past four wins by a total of only six points. The Mountaineers better be ready for the Eagles as they are a crowd favorite whenever they get to the Big Dance. Our Tuesday complimentary selection is #585 Coppin State Eagles.
Great Lakes Sports
NC Ashville at Ohio State 7:00PM EST Play on: Ohio State Buckeyes
The Ohio State Buckeyes are 48-42 ATS the last three years including 35-30 ATS the last three years in the role of a favorite. The Buckeyes is also 40-31 ATS when playing a team with a winning record the last three years, and 78-66 ATS at home the last three years. We look for the Ohio State Buckeyes to dismantle NC Ashville for the NIT home ATS Win & cover tonight.
Alex Smart
Game: Phoenix Coyotes vs. Edmonton Oilers
Game Time: 3/18/2008 9:35:00 PM
Prediction: Edmonton Oilers
The Edmonton Oilers prepare to take on a tired Phoenix Coyotes team off a hard fought 3-1 loss to Vancouver last night. The Coyotes, need wins to get in the final play off spot, and will be in desperation mode, but that will not be enough to notch a win, vs a surging Oilers team that has won 8 of their L9 home games , and is also on a quest for a post season appearance. Final notes & Key Trends: Coyotes goalie Ilya Bryzgalov is 1-3-0 with a 3.73 GAA in four career games against the Oilers, including two losses this season. The Coyotes are just 4 for their L33 PP opportunities, which is not a good omen for their chances tonight, against one of the leagues top power play killing units (84.7%) Play on the Oilers
Tom Freese
Blue Line Club College
Free Pick
Rhode Island vs. Creighton (10:00pm)
Creighton is 26-14 ATS off a conference game and they are 8-1 ATS after failing ATS in 3 of their last 4 games. The Bluejays are 4-1 ATS their last 5 home games and they are 6-2 ATS on Tuesday. Rhode Island is 4-11 ATS off a conference game and they are 1-8 ATS off a conference loss. The Rams are 3-15-1 after losing 4 or 5 of their last 6 games. PLAY ON CREIGHTON
SPORTS REPORTER
TUESDAY, MARCH 18
*DETROIT over DENVER by 14
*MILWAUKEE over MIAMI by 7
MILWAUKEE 88-81
NEW JERSEY over *CHICAGO by 8
L.A. LAKERS over *DALLAS by 10
RECOMMENDED
*HOUSTON over BOSTON by 6
HOUSTON 100-94
GOLDEN STATE over *SACRAMENTO by 9
PHOENIX over *PORTLAND by 12
TUESDAY, MARCH 18
*DETROIT over DENVER by 14
*MILWAUKEE over MIAMI by 7
MILWAUKEE 88-81
NEW JERSEY over *CHICAGO by 8
L.A. LAKERS over *DALLAS by 10
RECOMMENDED
*HOUSTON over BOSTON by 6
HOUSTON 100-94
GOLDEN STATE over *SACRAMENTO by 9
PHOENIX over *PORTLAND by 12
WINNING POINTS
Tuesday, March 18
*Detroit over Denver by 6
DETROIT 104-98.
*Milwaukee over Miami by 4
MILWAUKEE 105-101.
*Chicago over New Jersey by 3
CHICAGO 99-96.
*Dallas over Los Angeles Lakers by 2
DALLAS 106-104.
**PREFERRED
*Houston over Boston by 6
HOUSTON 97-91.
**PREFERRED
Golden State over *Sacramento by 10
GOLDEN STATE 120-110.
Phoenix over *Portland by 5
PHOENIX 109-104.
Tuesday, March 18
*Detroit over Denver by 6
DETROIT 104-98.
*Milwaukee over Miami by 4
MILWAUKEE 105-101.
*Chicago over New Jersey by 3
CHICAGO 99-96.
*Dallas over Los Angeles Lakers by 2
DALLAS 106-104.
**PREFERRED
*Houston over Boston by 6
HOUSTON 97-91.
**PREFERRED
Golden State over *Sacramento by 10
GOLDEN STATE 120-110.
Phoenix over *Portland by 5
PHOENIX 109-104.
BIG AL McMORDIE
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Portland Trailblazers
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Portland Trailblazers
Jimmy The Moose comps
Game: Washington Capitals at Nashville Predators Mar 18 2008 8:05PM
Prediction: Washington Capitals
Reason: Both team's are fighting for a playoff spot. The Capitals have won 3 in a row while the Predators have dropped 3 of their last 4 games. Washington has won their last 5 vs. Western Conference opponents. The Capitals are 5-1 in their last 6 road games vs. a team with a winning home record. Nashville is 1-4 in their last 5 vs. Eastern Conference opponents. Nashville has lost their last 4 on home ice. Play on the Capitals +.
VEGAS SPORTS PICS
S.F.Austin Lumberjacks + 9.5 over UMass Minutemen
UMass (21-10) is 3-7-1 ATS last 11 home games. SFA's (26-5) record includes a 66-62 win at Oklahoma on 12/02, a team which entered 58-1 previous 59 non-conference home games. The Lumberjacks have started the same starting five in all but one game this season.
Allen Eastman
Denver and Detroit UNDER 208 ?.
Despite the offensive surge and five wins in their last seven games, Denver will face a Detroit club that's held West opponents to 89.6 points per game this season and holding the league to 87 ppg overall.
Dave Cokin
(601) Alabama St
(602) Arizona St
Take (602) Arizona St
Did Arizona State get the big snub from the NCAA selection committee? I'm not sure, as there's a good argument on either side of the equation. What I do know is that the Sun Devils have a chance to convince everyone they belonged with a big showing in the NIT. Let's see if they've got the right mindset tonight. If they do, they can name the score against a seriously outgunned Alabama State squad. I'm banking on Herb Sendek having his troops well prepped and ready to deliver, so I'll go with ASU minus the big number.
Jim Feist
(579) BOS Celtics
(580) HOU Rockets
Take (580) Houston Rockets
So when are the Rockets finally going to lose a game? It could be here against the team with the best record in the league. However, there?s an old wagering rule ? ride the hot team. There are plenty of reasons to back Houston here, as well. This is the 4th game in 5 nights for the Celtics, and a tough trip thru the Texas Triangle, playing at San Antonio Monday. Houston has won 22 in a row, 18-3-1 ATS. You want to go against that? Play the Rockets!
Vernon Croy
Calgary Flames vs. Columbus Blue Jackets (NHL)
Mar 18, 2008 7:05 PM EDT
Play: Calgary Flames
1 Unit, Take Calgary ML, Calgary is the superior team here Tuesday night and they should be favored by at least -150 so we are getting great value with the Flames tonight. Columbus is just 5-12 after scoring 4 or more goals in their previous game and Calgary is 8-3 in their last 11 games after playing 3 consecutive road games. Columbus has struggled on the powerplay over their last 5 games converting at just 9.5% and their penalty kill has also suffered over their last 5 games with opponents converting 22.7% of their chances with the extra man against them.
Game: Washington Capitals at Nashville Predators Mar 18 2008 8:05PM
Prediction: Washington Capitals
Reason: Both team's are fighting for a playoff spot. The Capitals have won 3 in a row while the Predators have dropped 3 of their last 4 games. Washington has won their last 5 vs. Western Conference opponents. The Capitals are 5-1 in their last 6 road games vs. a team with a winning home record. Nashville is 1-4 in their last 5 vs. Eastern Conference opponents. Nashville has lost their last 4 on home ice. Play on the Capitals +.
VEGAS SPORTS PICS
S.F.Austin Lumberjacks + 9.5 over UMass Minutemen
UMass (21-10) is 3-7-1 ATS last 11 home games. SFA's (26-5) record includes a 66-62 win at Oklahoma on 12/02, a team which entered 58-1 previous 59 non-conference home games. The Lumberjacks have started the same starting five in all but one game this season.
Allen Eastman
Denver and Detroit UNDER 208 ?.
Despite the offensive surge and five wins in their last seven games, Denver will face a Detroit club that's held West opponents to 89.6 points per game this season and holding the league to 87 ppg overall.
Dave Cokin
(601) Alabama St
(602) Arizona St
Take (602) Arizona St
Did Arizona State get the big snub from the NCAA selection committee? I'm not sure, as there's a good argument on either side of the equation. What I do know is that the Sun Devils have a chance to convince everyone they belonged with a big showing in the NIT. Let's see if they've got the right mindset tonight. If they do, they can name the score against a seriously outgunned Alabama State squad. I'm banking on Herb Sendek having his troops well prepped and ready to deliver, so I'll go with ASU minus the big number.
Jim Feist
(579) BOS Celtics
(580) HOU Rockets
Take (580) Houston Rockets
So when are the Rockets finally going to lose a game? It could be here against the team with the best record in the league. However, there?s an old wagering rule ? ride the hot team. There are plenty of reasons to back Houston here, as well. This is the 4th game in 5 nights for the Celtics, and a tough trip thru the Texas Triangle, playing at San Antonio Monday. Houston has won 22 in a row, 18-3-1 ATS. You want to go against that? Play the Rockets!
Vernon Croy
Calgary Flames vs. Columbus Blue Jackets (NHL)
Mar 18, 2008 7:05 PM EDT
Play: Calgary Flames
1 Unit, Take Calgary ML, Calgary is the superior team here Tuesday night and they should be favored by at least -150 so we are getting great value with the Flames tonight. Columbus is just 5-12 after scoring 4 or more goals in their previous game and Calgary is 8-3 in their last 11 games after playing 3 consecutive road games. Columbus has struggled on the powerplay over their last 5 games converting at just 9.5% and their penalty kill has also suffered over their last 5 games with opponents converting 22.7% of their chances with the extra man against them.
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Cappers Access
Tue (CBB) Mt St Marys
Tue (CBB) Maryland
Gamblers Data
Golden State -2
LT's Lock
Overall record: 575-471-22
Current streak: 1 win
Todays play: Minnesota -3'
Mighty Quinn
Mighty hit with the Magic (-7) Monday night. Today it's Virginia...
Tue (CBB) Mt St Marys
Tue (CBB) Maryland
Gamblers Data
Golden State -2
LT's Lock
Overall record: 575-471-22
Current streak: 1 win
Todays play: Minnesota -3'
Mighty Quinn
Mighty hit with the Magic (-7) Monday night. Today it's Virginia...
Comps
RAZOR SHARP SPORTS
PHOENIX -3? over Portland
TOTALS 4U
COPPIN STATE/MOUNT ST. MARY'S OVER 126 1/2
VEGAS STEAMLINE
Golden St -1 over Sacramento
#1 SPORTS
MOUNT ST. MARY'S - 7
HUDDLE UP SPORTS
Akron +8
TV HOTLINE
UMASS -9-
MIKE WYNN
Rhode Island +7 Over Creighton
PLATINUM PLAYS
RHODE ISLAND RAMS + 7
BIG TIME
PHOENIX /PORTLAND OVER 209
COMPUTER SPORTS
CHICAGO BULLS-5
THE SHARPSHOOTER
STEPHEN AUSTIN +9.5
HAWKEYE SPORTS
DENVER +6 OVER DETROIT
ARTHUR RALPH
Ohio U
DARK HORSE
Golden State -1.5 over Sacramento
Joe Wiz
Alabama St
Phoenix Suns
RAZOR SHARP SPORTS
PHOENIX -3? over Portland
TOTALS 4U
COPPIN STATE/MOUNT ST. MARY'S OVER 126 1/2
VEGAS STEAMLINE
Golden St -1 over Sacramento
#1 SPORTS
MOUNT ST. MARY'S - 7
HUDDLE UP SPORTS
Akron +8
TV HOTLINE
UMASS -9-
MIKE WYNN
Rhode Island +7 Over Creighton
PLATINUM PLAYS
RHODE ISLAND RAMS + 7
BIG TIME
PHOENIX /PORTLAND OVER 209
COMPUTER SPORTS
CHICAGO BULLS-5
THE SHARPSHOOTER
STEPHEN AUSTIN +9.5
HAWKEYE SPORTS
DENVER +6 OVER DETROIT
ARTHUR RALPH
Ohio U
DARK HORSE
Golden State -1.5 over Sacramento
Joe Wiz
Alabama St
Phoenix Suns
Last edited:
Guaranteed Pick: Larry Ness
Game: Houston at Nevada Mar 18 2008 9:00PM
Prediction: Nevada
Reason: How about the lack of respect for C-USA? Of Course Memphis is a No. 1 seed (2nd to only North Carolina, overall) but the Tigers were the only one of 12 C-USA schools to make the "Big Dance." UAB was the only school the NIT wanted. If not for this new CBI tournament, that would have been it for C-USA. However, the CBI took Houston, Tulsa and UTEP. The Cougars have to be just sick. Houston opened the year 11-1 but finished the season with back-to-back losses to UTEP in the season's final regular season game 87-81 at El Paso and then in the C-USA quarterfinals, 80-77. Add it all up and the team's 22-9 record only gets them a plane ticket to Reno, Nevada. Why would the Cougars even want to make the trip? McKiver (23.1-4.1) is an excellent guard but he misses his partner from LY (Lafayette), who averaged 14.3 PPG. Lanny Smith(once a double digit scorer in back-to-back seasons for Houston), has never fully recovered from his injuries and averaged only 5.5 PPG on the season. Last year, the 6-6 duo of Dowell and Thorpe (10.9-6.1) was a nice pair but only Dowell (11.2-6.7) returned and the 6-8 Toney (6.8-6.1) has been an average partner for Dowell this year, at best. As for Nevada, four starters were lost off of LY's 29-win team, which made a FOURTH consecutive NCAA appearance. Trent Johnson led Nevada to the NCAA's Sweet 16 back in 2004 (then left for Stanford) but current head coach Mark Fox has been there since, as last year's team concluded a four-year run in which the Wolf Pack won 106 games. All in all, this has to be considered a good year, as Nevada went 12-4 in the WAC (a four-way tie for first-place) and after an eight-point loss to New Mex St (in Las Cruces!) in the WAC tourney, Nevada will take a 21-11 overall mark into this game. The 6-5 Kemp was the lone returning starter from LYand led the team with averages of 19.8-5.4-3.3. Fields (12.3) and A. Johnson (11.3-4.1) joined him on the perimeter with the 7-0 McGee (14.2-7.10 and D. Johnson (6.7-4.6) starting in the frontcourt. Nevada lost its second home game of the season (to Cal) but then went 12-1 SU the rest of the way in the Lawlor Events Center. The lone loss came to Boise St (won WAC tourney) on Jan 19 and Nevada ended the year with six consecutive home wins, by an average margin of victory of 19.7 PPG (only Utah St stayed within double digits). On the bench, I'll take Nevada's Mark Fox over Houston's Tom Penders, any day! Las Vegas Insider on Nevada.
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Game: Houston at Nevada Mar 18 2008 9:00PM
Prediction: Nevada
Reason: How about the lack of respect for C-USA? Of Course Memphis is a No. 1 seed (2nd to only North Carolina, overall) but the Tigers were the only one of 12 C-USA schools to make the "Big Dance." UAB was the only school the NIT wanted. If not for this new CBI tournament, that would have been it for C-USA. However, the CBI took Houston, Tulsa and UTEP. The Cougars have to be just sick. Houston opened the year 11-1 but finished the season with back-to-back losses to UTEP in the season's final regular season game 87-81 at El Paso and then in the C-USA quarterfinals, 80-77. Add it all up and the team's 22-9 record only gets them a plane ticket to Reno, Nevada. Why would the Cougars even want to make the trip? McKiver (23.1-4.1) is an excellent guard but he misses his partner from LY (Lafayette), who averaged 14.3 PPG. Lanny Smith(once a double digit scorer in back-to-back seasons for Houston), has never fully recovered from his injuries and averaged only 5.5 PPG on the season. Last year, the 6-6 duo of Dowell and Thorpe (10.9-6.1) was a nice pair but only Dowell (11.2-6.7) returned and the 6-8 Toney (6.8-6.1) has been an average partner for Dowell this year, at best. As for Nevada, four starters were lost off of LY's 29-win team, which made a FOURTH consecutive NCAA appearance. Trent Johnson led Nevada to the NCAA's Sweet 16 back in 2004 (then left for Stanford) but current head coach Mark Fox has been there since, as last year's team concluded a four-year run in which the Wolf Pack won 106 games. All in all, this has to be considered a good year, as Nevada went 12-4 in the WAC (a four-way tie for first-place) and after an eight-point loss to New Mex St (in Las Cruces!) in the WAC tourney, Nevada will take a 21-11 overall mark into this game. The 6-5 Kemp was the lone returning starter from LYand led the team with averages of 19.8-5.4-3.3. Fields (12.3) and A. Johnson (11.3-4.1) joined him on the perimeter with the 7-0 McGee (14.2-7.10 and D. Johnson (6.7-4.6) starting in the frontcourt. Nevada lost its second home game of the season (to Cal) but then went 12-1 SU the rest of the way in the Lawlor Events Center. The lone loss came to Boise St (won WAC tourney) on Jan 19 and Nevada ended the year with six consecutive home wins, by an average margin of victory of 19.7 PPG (only Utah St stayed within double digits). On the bench, I'll take Nevada's Mark Fox over Houston's Tom Penders, any day! Las Vegas Insider on Nevada.
View Lines and Log Out
Wolkosky Milan
518-419-18 last one hundred ninety two days
183-145-5 last seventy four days
3-2 Yesterday
Today:
10* DALLAS -6
10* LAL/DAL OVER 205?
10* MIA/MIL OVER 197?
518-419-18 last one hundred ninety two days
183-145-5 last seventy four days
3-2 Yesterday
Today:
10* DALLAS -6
10* LAL/DAL OVER 205?
10* MIA/MIL OVER 197?
Strike Point Sports
1.5-Unit Play. #591 Take Robert Morris +14 over Syracuse (8 pm)
Because are the Orange really that interested in the NIT? Last year 'Cuse hosted an opening round NIT game and failed to cover a big number over South Alabama, and this year's young team is much more inconsistent. Had this been a non-conference game at the beginning of the season with a team wanting to improve, then it might be different. But Robert Morris will be the more focus team wanting the win. They'll get the cover in the Carrier Dome.
2-Unit Play. Take Robert Morris/Syracuse Under 155 (8 pm)
The game above will stay under this number. They would each need basically 80 a piece, and I don't think this one will be played at that high a tempo. Th SU zone will slow down Robert Morris to a halfcourt game, and neither shoot the three ball well enough to light it up. This one stays in the low 70s at best.
2-Unit Play. #593 Take Akron +8 over Florida State (9 pm)
Again, if this were a game at the beginning of the season, it would be different. But Florida State has again let down and not made the NCAA Tourney. How motivated are they now that they're stuck in the NIT again. Akron slipped up big time in the MAC title game, and I think they'll want to erase that bad loss and keep their season going. Zips are the play here.
2-Unit Play. #597 Take Maryland +3.5 over Minnesota (9:30 pm)
For some reason I see the Terps coming out and playing a really good game. That hasn't been the case, but a new opportunity like this could be a nice way to close the season. Head coach Williams will have Maryland ready, and I think they take this game outright over the Gophers.
1.5-Unit Play. #599 Take Rhode Island +7 over Creighton (10 pm)
This Rams team is tricky to figure out. They certainly have the talent, but for some reason it hasn't risen to the top of late. But the points here are certainly nice, because Rhode Island can win this game outright. I'll take a chance with the points and see what come about with them.
2-Unit Play. Take Rhode Island/Creighton Under 150.5 (10 pm)
We'll see the Blue Jays want to keep this game in the 50s or 60s, and if it gets into a high scoring game, well, that favors Rhode Island, and thus our number above will likely hit. I think we see this one in the 60s, but in a closer game. Play the under.
1.5-Unit Play. #591 Take Robert Morris +14 over Syracuse (8 pm)
Because are the Orange really that interested in the NIT? Last year 'Cuse hosted an opening round NIT game and failed to cover a big number over South Alabama, and this year's young team is much more inconsistent. Had this been a non-conference game at the beginning of the season with a team wanting to improve, then it might be different. But Robert Morris will be the more focus team wanting the win. They'll get the cover in the Carrier Dome.
2-Unit Play. Take Robert Morris/Syracuse Under 155 (8 pm)
The game above will stay under this number. They would each need basically 80 a piece, and I don't think this one will be played at that high a tempo. Th SU zone will slow down Robert Morris to a halfcourt game, and neither shoot the three ball well enough to light it up. This one stays in the low 70s at best.
2-Unit Play. #593 Take Akron +8 over Florida State (9 pm)
Again, if this were a game at the beginning of the season, it would be different. But Florida State has again let down and not made the NCAA Tourney. How motivated are they now that they're stuck in the NIT again. Akron slipped up big time in the MAC title game, and I think they'll want to erase that bad loss and keep their season going. Zips are the play here.
2-Unit Play. #597 Take Maryland +3.5 over Minnesota (9:30 pm)
For some reason I see the Terps coming out and playing a really good game. That hasn't been the case, but a new opportunity like this could be a nice way to close the season. Head coach Williams will have Maryland ready, and I think they take this game outright over the Gophers.
1.5-Unit Play. #599 Take Rhode Island +7 over Creighton (10 pm)
This Rams team is tricky to figure out. They certainly have the talent, but for some reason it hasn't risen to the top of late. But the points here are certainly nice, because Rhode Island can win this game outright. I'll take a chance with the points and see what come about with them.
2-Unit Play. Take Rhode Island/Creighton Under 150.5 (10 pm)
We'll see the Blue Jays want to keep this game in the 50s or 60s, and if it gets into a high scoring game, well, that favors Rhode Island, and thus our number above will likely hit. I think we see this one in the 60s, but in a closer game. Play the under.
Robert Ferringo
2.5-Unit Play. Take #589 UNC-Asheville (+15) over Ohio State (7 p.m., Tuesday, March 18)
The best system to follow when it comes to NIT betting is to fade the teams that got snubbed by the NCAA Tournament Selection Committee. Ohio State is exactly such a team. You?ll get a blowout or two along the way, but in general double-digit favorites come to play. Asheville only lost at North Carolina by 12, at Tennessee by 13, and at Virginia Tech by 14. If they can play with those clubs they should be able to hang around with the Buckeyes. They have plenty of size and they have five players averaging in double figures, so they can get scoring from all over the court.
2-Unit Play. Take #607 Richmond (+13) over Virginia (7 p.m., Tuesday, March 18)
If you want to lay 13 points to a team that runs the Princeton offense, go right ahead. I?ll take the other side. The Spiders were one of the surprise teams in the Atlantic 10 this season. And although they tailed off in Money Time against more experienced teams, they are spunky enough to want to roll into UVA and beat their in-state rivals. It has to be a lot harder for the Cavs to get up for this one and that Richmond has everything to gain here. Richmond won at Virginia Tech this season and has beaten quality teams like Dayton, Temple, and Charlotte. And although Sean Singletary should score 40 in this one, I think the game is played in the 60?s and the Spiders hang around.
2.5-Unit Play. Take #595 Oklahoma State (+5.5) over Southern Illinois (9 p.m., Tuesday, March 18)
The Cowboys have been on a smoking 7-1-1 ATS run and seem to have adjusted well to playing as a perimeter team. OSU laid an egg in the first round of the NIT last year, but I think that they will have much more focus this time around because they?re matched up against a highly reputable program. Southern Illinois will be without starting point guard Bryan Mullins. And on a team that struggled this year precisely because their backcourt stinks, this isn?t a positive development. These teams score and defend at a similar rate, so catching points in what should be a close game is a big benefit. I think the Cowboys can win this one so I?m taking the points.
3-Unit Play. Take #587 Stephen F. Austin (+10) over Massachusetts (6 p.m., Tuesday, March 18)
The Lumberjacks have proven that they can play with the big boys. They won at Oklahoma and at San Diego this year, and since Thanksgiving their four losses have come by an average of just four points. They can shoot, they generally control the tempo, and against a team that doesn?t exactly lock down on defense they should be able to put some points on the board. Massachusetts is another club that is grudgingly playing in the NIT. I think they can clear SFA tonight, but I don?t see them blowing the doors off. The Minutemen are 3-7-1 ATS at home and 0-7 ATS at home against a team with a road winning percentage over .600.
2.5-Unit Play. Take #589 UNC-Asheville (+15) over Ohio State (7 p.m., Tuesday, March 18)
The best system to follow when it comes to NIT betting is to fade the teams that got snubbed by the NCAA Tournament Selection Committee. Ohio State is exactly such a team. You?ll get a blowout or two along the way, but in general double-digit favorites come to play. Asheville only lost at North Carolina by 12, at Tennessee by 13, and at Virginia Tech by 14. If they can play with those clubs they should be able to hang around with the Buckeyes. They have plenty of size and they have five players averaging in double figures, so they can get scoring from all over the court.
2-Unit Play. Take #607 Richmond (+13) over Virginia (7 p.m., Tuesday, March 18)
If you want to lay 13 points to a team that runs the Princeton offense, go right ahead. I?ll take the other side. The Spiders were one of the surprise teams in the Atlantic 10 this season. And although they tailed off in Money Time against more experienced teams, they are spunky enough to want to roll into UVA and beat their in-state rivals. It has to be a lot harder for the Cavs to get up for this one and that Richmond has everything to gain here. Richmond won at Virginia Tech this season and has beaten quality teams like Dayton, Temple, and Charlotte. And although Sean Singletary should score 40 in this one, I think the game is played in the 60?s and the Spiders hang around.
2.5-Unit Play. Take #595 Oklahoma State (+5.5) over Southern Illinois (9 p.m., Tuesday, March 18)
The Cowboys have been on a smoking 7-1-1 ATS run and seem to have adjusted well to playing as a perimeter team. OSU laid an egg in the first round of the NIT last year, but I think that they will have much more focus this time around because they?re matched up against a highly reputable program. Southern Illinois will be without starting point guard Bryan Mullins. And on a team that struggled this year precisely because their backcourt stinks, this isn?t a positive development. These teams score and defend at a similar rate, so catching points in what should be a close game is a big benefit. I think the Cowboys can win this one so I?m taking the points.
3-Unit Play. Take #587 Stephen F. Austin (+10) over Massachusetts (6 p.m., Tuesday, March 18)
The Lumberjacks have proven that they can play with the big boys. They won at Oklahoma and at San Diego this year, and since Thanksgiving their four losses have come by an average of just four points. They can shoot, they generally control the tempo, and against a team that doesn?t exactly lock down on defense they should be able to put some points on the board. Massachusetts is another club that is grudgingly playing in the NIT. I think they can clear SFA tonight, but I don?t see them blowing the doors off. The Minutemen are 3-7-1 ATS at home and 0-7 ATS at home against a team with a road winning percentage over .600.
