Game Details:
- Date & Time: Thursday, March 20, 2025, at 12:40 p.m. ET
- Location: Amica Mutual Pavilion, Providence, Rhode Island
- Broadcast: truTV
- Betting Odds & Lines:
- Point Spread: Purdue -8.5
- Moneyline: Purdue -350 | High Point +280
- Over/Under: 153.5 points
Purdue Boilermakers Overview (22-11, 13-7 Big Ten)
The Purdue Boilermakers, under head coach Matt Painter, wrapped up the season tied for fourth in the Big Ten Conference. Purdue’s offense is solid, averaging 77.9 points per game, while the defense allows 71.1 points per game — creating opportunities for high-scoring matchups.
Key Contributors:
- Trey Kaufman-Renn (20.2 PPG, 6.2 RPG): Purdue’s top scorer and a force inside.
- Braden Smith (16.1 PPG, 8.7 APG): An elite playmaker who facilitates Purdue’s offense and adds scoring punch.
Purdue Betting Trends:
- ATS Record: 17-16-0 (51.5%)
- Over Trend: 19 of 33 games (57.6%) hit the over, driven by efficient offense and decent pace.
High Point Panthers Overview (29-5, 14-2 Big South)
The High Point Panthers, led by Alan Huss, secured both the Big South regular-season and tournament titles, earning their first-ever NCAA Tournament berth. They average 82.2 points per game while holding opponents to 68.8 points per game — a potent combo of scoring and defense.
Key Contributors:
- Kezza Giffa (14.8 PPG): High Point’s leading scorer, crucial to their offense.
- Juslin Bodo Bodo (8.4 RPG): Dominates the boards and plays a key defensive role.
High Point Betting Trends:
- ATS Record: 17-15-0 (53.1%)
- Over Trend: 15 of 34 games (44.1%)
Key Matchups to Watch:
- Perimeter Play:
Purdue’s Braden Smith orchestrates the offense, testing High Point’s perimeter defense. Conversely, High Point’s Kezza Giffa will challenge Purdue’s backcourt. - Rebounding Battle:
Trey Kaufman-Renn vs. Juslin Bodo Bodo — whichever team controls the boards may dictate pace and earn second-chance opportunities.
Betting Angles & Trends:
- Against the Spread (ATS):
- Purdue: 17-16-0 ATS (51.5%)
- High Point: 17-15-0 ATS (53.1%)
- Over/Under Trends:
- Purdue: Over in 57.6% of games
- High Point: Over in 44.1% of games
The 153.5 total reflects both teams’ offensive capabilities, making the over a strong consideration.
Expert Predictions & Best Bets:
🔥 Best Bet: Over 153.5 (-110)
💰 Lean: High Point +8.5 (-110)
🎯 Prop Bet: Trey Kaufman-Renn Over 22.5 points
Final Thoughts: Purdue Boilermakers vs. High Point Panthers Preview
This first-round clash promises excitement, with Purdue’s balanced attack matching up against High Point’s potent offense. Expect fast-paced play, strong interior battles, and competitive action throughout. Bettors should eye both the Over and the spread as key opportunities.
