Henry Roldán
UCLA is a clear favourite in this commitment despite the ups and downs it has been through this season that led it to qualify for second place in the PAC-12. For its part, Akron, who ended up defeating the top two seeds of the Mid American to enter as conference leader, will have a tough challenge against one of the best teams in the nation in recent years.
Picks and Predictions for the Akron Zips vs UCLA Bruins NCAA Basketball Championship Round 1 Game on March 17
- Where: Moda Center – Portland, Oregon
- When: Thursday, March 17, 9:50 PM ET
- Betting Line: Akron Zips (+13.5) vs UCLA Bruins (-13.5)
Akron Zips Betting Preview
- Overall Record: 24-9
- Conference Record: 14-6
- Spread: +13.5
- Over/Under: Under 128.5
- Moneyline: +850
The Zips managed to take the underrated MAC Conference after defeating top seed Toledo, and second seed Kent State, on an eight-game winning streak. Their main quality is their large free-throw percentage, the fourth in the nation, and they can complicate opponents with great play behind the three-point line.
However, Akron suffers a lot in defense. Their problems on the perimeter are serious and they lost many commitments by a tight margin after not being able to maintain the advantage they had at some point in the commitment. His figure is forward Enrique Freeman, who averages 13.2 points per game and 10.8 rebounds per contest.
UCLA Bruins Betting Preview
- Overall Record: 25-7
- Conference Record: 15-5
- Spread: -13.5
- Over/Under: Under 128.5
- Moneyline: -1500
Again much is expected of UCLA, a team that should be in the top ten of the nation, but that due to its irregular game finished in second place in the Conference, behind Arizona State, and in 13th place nationwide.
Despite having won five of their last six games, the Bruins have a lot of trouble scoring in the paint, so their great possession of the ball is not rewarded at all times. His defense is one of the best in the nation and you have to follow in the footsteps of Johnny Juzang, who averaged 16 points per game and 36.2% from the three-point line.
JefeBet Prediction
Akron is excited about their win over their conference leaders, but the Bruins are better at all aspects of the game, even playing irregularly. This time we leave the UCLA points.
