Maryland vs. UCLA 12/22/23 NCAAB Betting Picks

Maryland vs. UCLA 12/22/23 – As the Maryland Terrapins and UCLA Bruins gear up for their showdown on Friday, the NCAAB betting picks community is buzzing with anticipation. Both teams have had a mixed start to the season, with Maryland standing at 6-4 and UCLA slightly behind at 5-4. This game, set to take place at the iconic Pauley Pavilion, promises to be a crucial matchup in the NCAA Men’s Basketball landscape.

Team	SP/RL	TOTAL	ML
Maryland	+3 -110	o127 -110	+136
UCLA	-3 -110	u127 -110	-166

In the cityyyyyy of L.A. pic.twitter.com/NexFlrm1Lq

— Maryland Men’s Basketball (@TerrapinHoops) December 22, 2023

Jahmir Young (Guard) vs. Sebastian Mack (Guard)

Jahmir Young has been the catalyst for the Terrapins this season, averaging 17.2 points, 3.3 rebounds and 4.2 assists per game. The junior guard is shooting just under 40% from the field but makes up for it with his ability to get to the free throw line and shoot over 90% once there. His length on defense also helps create 1.7 steals per game. Where Young struggles is with turnovers, coughing up the ball 3.3 times per contest.

For UCLA, Sebastian Mack has stepped up in a big way after the departure of Jaime Jaquez Jr. The sophomore is scoring 13.7 points with 4.7 rebounds nightly while shooting 37% from the floor. His perimeter defense has also been strong, swiping 1.9 steals per game. However, Mack’s shooting drops off dramatically from three-point range at just 21%. His inefficiency could become a factor against this Terrapins defense.

The battle between these two energetic guards could decide this game. If Young minimizes his turnovers while still scoring efficiently, he could guide Maryland to an upset win. But if Mack hits some timely outside shots while neutralizing Young on defense, UCLA has a strong shot to defend its home court.

Terrapins’ Tactical Prowess: Analyzing Maryland’s Strengths

The Terrapins have been an efficient team on offense so far, with four players averaging double figures in scoring. As a team, they are scoring over 73 points while shooting 41% from the field. Their patience in working for good shots also shows in their 70% free throw shooting. Maryland has also dominated on the glass, using their athleticism to grab over 37 rebounds per game. If they can continue to maximize their offensive possessions through solid shooting and rebounding, they have a template to win games even against strong opponents like UCLA.

Bruins’ Strategic Play: Unpacking UCLA’s Game Plan

The Bruins have struggled to consistently put points on the board, held under 70 points per game on just 43% shooting. Their smaller lineup also hinders their ability to attack the offensive glass. Instead, UCLA relies on its trademark physical defense to stay competitive. The Bruins are holding teams under 39% shooting while forcing over 11 turnovers per game. They also protect the rim well, averaging almost 4 blocks each night. If the Bruins can impose their grinding, disruptive defense on Friday night, it may be enough to stop Maryland’s efficient offense and allow UCLA to sneak out a win.

NCAAB Betting Odds: TBD, Over/Under: TBD

The betting odds for this game are yet to be determined, but given the teams’ performances and trends, it could be a closely contested match. Bettors should keep an eye on the odds as they are released to gauge the favorite.

Trends

Maryland Terrapins Betting Trends

Maryland has hit the Moneyline in their last 16 games at home .
Terrapins has hit the 1H Moneyline in 16 of their last 19 games at home .
Maryland has hit the Game Total Under in 22 of their last 34 games .
Maryland has hit the Team Total Under in 22 of their last 34 games.
Terrapins has only hit the Team Total Over in 12 of their last 34 games.
Maryland has only hit the Game Total Over in 11 of their last 34 games.

UCLA Bruins Betting Trends

UCLA has hit the Moneyline in 20 of their last 28 games .
Bruins has only hit the Game Total Over in 12 of their last 33 games.
UCLA has hit the Game Total Under in 21 of their last 33 games .
UCLA has only hit the 1H Moneyline in 23 of their last 33 games.
Bruins has hit the Team Total Under in 19 of their last 33 games.
UCLA has hit the 1H Game Total Under in 18 of their last 33 games.