Game Details:
- Date & Time: Friday, March 21, 2025, at 6:50 p.m. ET
- Location: Lenovo Center, Raleigh, North Carolina
- Broadcast: TNT
- Betting Odds:
- Point Spread: Florida -28.5
- Moneyline: Florida -10000 | Norfolk State +2200
- Over/Under: 153.5 points
Florida Gators Overview (30-4, 14-4 SEC, No. 1 Seed)
The Gators enter the tournament as the top seed in the West Region after an impressive SEC Tournament title run. Florida features one of the most lethal offenses in college basketball, averaging 85.4 points per game while holding opponents to 69.2 points per game.
Key Players:
- Walter Clayton Jr.: 17.5 PPG – Florida’s senior guard leads the team offensively, capable of scoring from anywhere on the court.
- Alex Condon: 7.9 RPG – Controls the boards and anchors the paint.
Florida’s efficient shooting, ball movement, and deep bench make them one of the tournament favorites.
Norfolk State Spartans Overview (24-10, 11-3 MEAC, No. 16 Seed)
The Spartans secured their spot by winning the MEAC Tournament. They average 77.3 points per game and allow 69.0 points per game, known for switching defensive looks between man-to-man and zone to disrupt opposing offenses.
Key Player:
- Brian Moore Jr.: 18.4 PPG – Norfolk State’s offensive leader, tasked with creating scoring opportunities against Florida’s defense.
Despite facing weaker competition throughout the season, the Spartans’ experience could help them hold their own in stretches.
Key Matchups:
- Guard Battle:
Florida’s Walter Clayton Jr. vs. Norfolk State’s Brian Moore Jr. – Clayton is a matchup nightmare, and Moore will need a career game to keep pace. - Rebounding & Interior Play:
Alex Condon gives Florida a significant size and strength advantage inside. Norfolk State must limit second-chance points and stay competitive on the boards.
Betting Angles & Trends:
- Against the Spread (ATS):
- Florida: 23-8-0 ATS (74.2%)
- Norfolk State: 17-11-0 ATS (60.7%)
- Over/Under Trends:
- Florida leans heavily toward the Over thanks to their elite offensive tempo.
- Norfolk State’s Over/Under record is more balanced, but they will struggle to slow Florida’s scoring.
With the total set at 153.5 points, Florida’s scoring prowess could push this game over even if it turns into a blowout.
Expert Predictions & Best Bets:
🔥 Best Bet: Florida -28.5 (-110) – Florida has consistently covered large spreads this season, and this matchup favors another dominant showing.
💰 Lean: Over 153.5 (-110) – Florida’s offense alone could push this over, with Norfolk State contributing just enough.
🎯 Prop Bet: Walter Clayton Jr. Over 19.5 Points – Expect Clayton to lead the charge before Florida rests starters late.
Final Thoughts: Florida Gators vs. Norfolk State Spartans Preview
This is a classic 1 vs. 16 mismatch. Florida’s size, shooting, depth, and experience should overwhelm Norfolk State early. While the Spartans may force some early stops, it’s hard to see them keeping up for 40 minutes. For bettors, both the spread and total provide solid value in what should be another showcase for the Gators.
