UCLA Crimson Streak Heading into Crucial Matchup with UC Riverside Highlanders
UC Riverside and UCLA will face off on Thursday night at UCLA's Pauley Pavilion. This will be the first time the two teams have competed since UCLA defeated UCR by 42 points
Game outlook
UC Riverside and UCLA will face off on Thursday night at UCLA's Pauley Pavilion. This will be the first time the two teams have competed since UCLA defeated UCR by 42 points in 2013. With UCLA listed as a 19.5-point favorite in the opening betting line, this highly anticipated matchup between the two California schools will surely deliver an exciting outcome.
Betting Odds
Moneyline: Highlanders +1,750 | Bruins -5,000
Spread: Highlanders +19.5 (-110) | Bruins -19.5 (-110)
Total: Over/Under 128.75 (-110)
Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that UCLA will win straight-up is 98%.
UC Riverside Highlanders
UC Riverside is headed on the road for their next game, coming off a 46-point win (Benjamin Griscti leading with 14 points). However, they are 0-4 in away games, struggling offensively with 31.6% shooting from the field, which includes 29.0% on threes and 59.4% from the free throws. On the defensive side, they are allowing 72.0 points per game on 45.4% shooting, and 39.4% shots from the three-point range and 79.0% success rate of free throws. They generally have an edge in rebounding and turnovers, but the pace and defensive output are too low to be successful.
UCLA Bruins Analysis
UCLA fell to Gonzaga 69-65 in the Maui Invitational, however, the Bruins have secured 3-0 home record. With one of the top defenses in the nation, they are giving up only 50.7 points per game. Offensively, the Bruins displayed a 35.2% shooting and 65 points performance against Gonzaga; however, they are generally much better and hitting 46.8% of their shots. The 70-point threshold has proven to be successful for the Bruins and it will be needed to reach a victory in their next game.