Game Details:
- Date & Time: Thursday, March 20, 2025, at 7:10 p.m. ET
- Location: Amica Mutual Pavilion, Providence, Rhode Island
- Broadcast: CBS
- Betting Odds:
- Point Spread: Kansas -4.5
- Moneyline: Kansas -197 | Arkansas +163
- Over/Under: 145.5 points
Kansas Jayhawks Overview (21-12, 11-9 Big 12)
The Kansas Jayhawks earned the No. 7 seed in the West Region after a competitive season in the tough Big 12 Conference. Kansas averages 76.2 points per game while allowing 69.3 points per game defensively. Their blend of experienced leadership and interior strength makes them a dangerous team.
Key Players:
- Hunter Dickinson (17.6 PPG, 10.0 RPG): Kansas’ go-to scorer and dominant rebounder, capable of taking over games inside.
- Dajuan Harris Jr. (9.2 PPG, 5.7 APG): The steady floor general, known for his court vision and ability to control tempo.
Kansas Betting Trends:
- ATS Record: 15-18-0 (45.5%)
- Struggled to cover spreads consistently, particularly in conference play.
Arkansas Razorbacks Overview (20-13, 8-10 SEC)
Arkansas comes in as a No. 10 seed after battling through a challenging SEC schedule. They average 76.6 points per game while conceding 71.2 points per game, relying heavily on athleticism and versatile scorers to stay competitive.
Key Players:
- Adou Thiero (15.6 PPG, 6.0 RPG): A versatile forward who can score inside and out, crucial for Arkansas’ offensive flow.
- D.J. Wagner (11.1 PPG, 3.5 APG): Provides consistent scoring and playmaking from the backcourt.
Arkansas Betting Trends:
- ATS Record: 14-17-2 (45.2%)
- Similar to Kansas, Arkansas has been inconsistent against the spread.
Key Matchups to Watch:
- Frontcourt Battle:
Kansas’ Hunter Dickinson vs. Arkansas’ Adou Thiero. Dickinson’s post dominance and rebounding presence challenge Thiero’s athleticism and versatility. Whoever controls the paint could dictate momentum. - Guard Play:
Kansas’ Dajuan Harris Jr. and Arkansas’ D.J. Wagner will be crucial in setting tempo and limiting turnovers. Their playmaking abilities will shape the flow of the game.
Betting Angles & Trends:
- Against the Spread (ATS):
- Kansas: 15-18-0 ATS (45.5%)
- Arkansas: 14-17-2 ATS (45.2%)
- Over/Under Trends:
- Kansas: Over hit in 18 of 33 games (54.5%)
- Arkansas: Over hit in 16 of 33 games (48.5%)
The 145.5-point total reflects both teams’ solid offensive outputs and the potential for a fast-paced game.
Expert Predictions & Best Bets:
🔥 Best Bet: Over 145.5 (-110)
💰 Lean: Arkansas +4.5 (-110)
🏰 Prop Bet: Hunter Dickinson Over 18.5 points
Final Thoughts: Kansas Jayhawks vs. Arkansas Razorbacks Preview
This first-round matchup highlights contrasting styles — Kansas’ balanced offense and interior dominance versus Arkansas’ athleticism and versatility. Expect a competitive game with scoring opportunities on both ends. Bettors should target the Over and consider Arkansas covering in what could be a tightly contested contest.
