Game Details:
- Date & Time: Thursday, March 20, 2025, at 10:10 p.m. ET
- Location: INTRUST Bank Arena, Wichita, Kansas
- Broadcast: truTV
- Betting Odds:
- Point Spread: Texas Tech -15.5
- Moneyline: Texas Tech -2083 | UNC Wilmington +1100
- Over/Under: 143.5 points
Texas Tech Red Raiders Overview (25-8, 15-5 Big 12)
The Texas Tech Red Raiders secured the No. 3 seed in the West Region after an impressive Big 12 season. Texas Tech averages 80.9 points per game while allowing 67.6 points per game, making them one of the most balanced teams in the tournament.
Key Players:
- JT Toppin (18.1 PPG, 9.2 RPG): The Red Raiders’ leading scorer and rebounder, dominant inside presence.
- Elijah Hawkins (9.1 PPG, 6.4 APG): The team’s primary playmaker, facilitating Texas Tech’s up-tempo offense.
- Chance McMillian (14.2 PPG, 37.9% 3PT): Deadly from beyond the arc, key to stretching the defense.
Texas Tech Betting Trends:
- ATS Record: 17-16-0 (51.5%)
- Consistent performance ATS, especially when their offense fires on all cylinders.
UNC Wilmington Seahawks Overview (27-7, 14-4 CAA)
UNC Wilmington enters the tournament as the No. 14 seed, following an impressive season in the Colonial Athletic Association. They average 79.4 points per game, allowing 69.9 points per game, and thrive in close contests.
Key Players:
- Donovan Newby (14.6 PPG, 3.5 APG): The Seahawks’ leading scorer and facilitator.
- Balanced scoring across the lineup makes UNC Wilmington difficult to key in on defensively.
UNC Wilmington Betting Trends:
- ATS Record: 20-12-0 (62.5%)
- Strong cover percentage, especially as underdogs.
Key Matchups to Watch:
- Perimeter Shooting:
Texas Tech’s three-point threat, led by Chance McMillian, will test UNC Wilmington’s perimeter defense, which ranks 298th nationally in three-point defense. - Pace of Play:
Texas Tech prefers an up-tempo game, while UNC Wilmington may try to slow things down and control possessions to limit Texas Tech’s scoring runs.
Betting Angles & Trends:
- Against the Spread (ATS):
- Texas Tech: 17-16-0 ATS (51.5%)
- UNC Wilmington: 20-12-0 ATS (62.5%)
- Over/Under Trends:
- Texas Tech: Over in 18 of 33 games (54.5%)
- UNC Wilmington: Over in 20 of 32 games (62.5%)
The total set at 143.5 points reflects the offensive pace and scoring potential of both squads.
Expert Predictions & Best Bets:
🔥 Best Bet: Over 143.5 (-110)
💰 Lean: UNC Wilmington +15.5 (-110)
🎯 Prop Bet: JT Toppin Over 20.5 points
Final Thoughts: Texas Tech Red Raiders vs. UNC Wilmington Seahawks Preview
Expect a clash between Texas Tech’s high-powered offense and UNC Wilmington’s resilience. While the Red Raiders are clear favorites, the Seahawks’ ability to stay competitive and cover spreads makes them a tempting underdog play. Bettors should watch the total and the spread for value.
