Game Details:
- Date & Time: Thursday, March 20, 2025, at 9:45 p.m. ET
- Location: Amica Mutual Pavilion, Providence, Rhode Island
- Broadcast: CBS
- Betting Odds:
- Point Spread: St. John’s -16.5
- Moneyline: St. John’s -3000 | Omaha +1280
- Over/Under: 147.5 points
St. John’s Red Storm Overview (30-4, 18-2 Big East)
The St. John’s Red Storm stormed into the NCAA Tournament as a No. 2 seed in the West Region following a dominant Big East season. The Red Storm average 78.7 points per game, ranking 69th nationally, while holding opponents to just 65.9 points per game. Additionally, they are elite on the glass, ranking 11th nationally in rebounds (40.9 RPG).
Key Players:
- RJ Luis Jr. (18.4 PPG, 7.2 RPG): The leading scorer and rebounding force, a key contributor on both ends.
- Kadary Richmond (12.7 PPG, 6.4 RPG, 5.4 APG): The team’s versatile guard, impacting scoring, rebounds, and assists.
St. John’s Betting Trends:
- ATS Record: 21-12-1 (62%)
Omaha Mavericks Overview (22-12, 13-3 Summit League)
The Omaha Mavericks enter as a No. 15 seed after winning both the Summit League regular-season and tournament titles. They average 78.1 points per game (80th nationally) but allow 75.0 points per game, showing vulnerabilities on defense.
Key Players:
- Marquel Sutton (19.1 PPG, 8.0 RPG): Omaha’s leading scorer and rebounder, pivotal in the paint.
- JJ White (13.7 PPG, 4.0 APG): Key backcourt contributor, facilitating offense and adding perimeter scoring.
Omaha Betting Trends:
- ATS Record: 23-9-0 (68%)
- Strong cover percentage, even as underdogs.
Key Matchups to Watch:
- Frontcourt Battle:
RJ Luis Jr. vs. Marquel Sutton — Both teams’ leading scorers and rebounders will battle for control in the paint. - Perimeter Defense:
St. John’s ability to contain Omaha’s three-point shooting will be critical, as Omaha often relies on perimeter scoring.
Betting Angles & Trends:
- Against the Spread (ATS):
- St. John’s: 21-12-1 ATS (62%)
- Omaha: 23-9-0 ATS (68%)
- Over/Under Trends:
- St. John’s: Over in 15 of 34 games (44%)
- Omaha: Over in 18 of 34 games (53%)
With the total set at 147.5 points, Omaha’s defensive effort and St. John’s rebounding edge will influence scoring pace.
Expert Predictions & Best Bets:
🔥 Best Bet: Under 147.5 (-110)
💰 Lean: Omaha +16.5 (-110)
🎯 Prop Bet: RJ Luis Jr. Over 20.5 points
Final Thoughts: St. John’s Red Storm vs. Omaha Mavericks Preview
This first-round matchup showcases St. John’s dominant offense and rebounding against Omaha’s resilience and perimeter scoring. Expect a competitive game where tempo and defensive execution dictate the outcome. Bettors should eye value in the Under and Omaha potentially covering.
