Game Details:
- Date & Time: Thursday, March 20, 2025, at 1:05 p.m. MST
- Location: Ball Arena, Denver, Colorado
- Broadcast: TNT
- Betting Odds:
- Point Spread: BYU -3.5
- Moneyline: BYU -150 | VCU +125
- Over/Under: 143.5 points
BYU Cougars Overview (24-9, 14-6 WCC)
The BYU Cougars enter as a No. 6 seed in the East Region after a strong campaign in the West Coast Conference. They are one of the tournament’s most efficient offenses, averaging 81.0 points per game, while allowing 70.9 points per game on defense.
Key Players:
- Richie Saunders (16.0 PPG): BYU’s leading scorer and primary offensive weapon.
- Fousseyni Traore (5.3 RPG): Key presence on the boards, providing second-chance opportunities and defensive rebounds.
BYU Betting Trends:
- ATS Record: 19-13-0 (59.4%)
- Strong cover rate, especially when their offense is firing.
VCU Rams Overview (28-6, 15-3 A-10)
The VCU Rams secured a No. 11 seed after dominating the Atlantic 10 Conference. Known for their disruptive defense, they allow only 62.4 points per game, making them one of the toughest defensive units in the tournament. Offensively, they average 77.1 points per game.
Key Players:
- Adrian Baldwin Jr. (12.7 PPG): VCU’s floor leader and key scorer.
- Hason Ward (6.5 RPG): Anchors the defense and controls the boards.
VCU Betting Trends:
- ATS Record: 20-13-0 (60.6%)
- Frequently covers thanks to their defensive intensity and ability to stay in games.
Key Matchups to Watch:
- Guard Play:
BYU’s Richie Saunders vs. VCU’s Adrian Baldwin Jr. — Both guards drive their teams’ offenses and will play a crucial role in the game’s outcome. - Defensive Pressure:
VCU’s trademark Havoc defense will test BYU’s ball-handling and decision-making, potentially forcing turnovers and dictating tempo.
Betting Angles & Trends:
- Against the Spread (ATS):
- BYU: 19-13-0 ATS (59.4%)
- VCU: 20-13-0 ATS (60.6%)
- Over/Under Trends:
- BYU: Over in 17 of 33 games (51.5%)
- VCU: Over in 15 of 34 games (44.1%)
The 143.5-point total reflects BYU’s scoring power balanced against VCU’s defensive strength.
Expert Predictions & Best Bets:
🔥 Best Bet: Under 143.5 (-110)
💰 Lean: VCU +3.5 (-110)
🎯 Prop Bet: Richie Saunders Over 18.5 points
Final Thoughts: BYU Cougars vs. VCU Rams Preview
This first-round clash pits BYU’s high-scoring offense against VCU’s relentless defense. Expect a tight, physical game where each team tries to impose their style. For bettors, the Under and taking VCU +3.5 offer value in what could be a close contest.
