Xavier Musketeers vs. UConn Huskies 1/28/24 NCAAB Betting Picks

Xavier Musketeers vs. UConn Huskies 1/28/24 – The Xavier Musketeers (10-9) are set to face off against the UConn Huskies (17-2) in what promises to be an electrifying matchup in the NCAA Men’s Basketball schedule. With the Musketeers looking to improve their standing and the Huskies aiming to maintain their impressive record, this game is a crucial juncture for both teams. As they prepare to clash at the XL Center this Sunday, fans and bettors alike are keenly eyeing what could be one of the college basketball top picks of the week.

Team	SP/RL	TOTAL	ML
Musketeers	TBD	TBD	TBD
Huskies	TBD	TBD	TBD

Action from tonight’s game at No. 17 Creighton. pic.twitter.com/X2Ih8AcFvw

— Xavier Basketball (@XavierMBB) January 24, 2024

Quincy Olivari (Guard) vs. Cam Spencer (Guard)

Quincy Olivari has been Xavier’s go-to offensive weapon, averaging 17.9 points per game while shooting 43.9% from the field. The junior guard is capable of catching fire from deep with his 42.9% three-point percentage on 6.5 attempts per contest. However, Olivari does not contribute much besides scoring. At just 6’3″, he struggles on the glass and lacks playmaking upside with under 2 assists per game. His one-dimensional style could be problematic against UConn’s balanced defense.

Cam Spencer spearheads the Huskies’ efficient offense with his versatile inside-out scoring ability and court vision. He averages 15.4 points while shooting 49.2% from the floor and 45.3% from downtown. The crafty junior creates well for others, contributing 3.2 assists as well. His all-around game forces defenses to account for him at all times. If Xavier focuses too heavily on stopping Spencer, he can easily create open shots for his teammates. His matchup against Olivari on both ends will be pivotal.

These talented guards showcase contrasting styles that could determine this game’s outcome. Olivari is an electric albeit streaky scorer who shoulders a massive offensive load for Xavier. Spencer captains a more collective UConn attack with his balanced scoring and distributing. Whichever player maximizes his strengths while containing the other will put his team in prime position to win.

Digging Deeper into Xavier’s Struggles

A lack of depth and defensive consistency has plagued the Musketeers during their mediocre 10-9 start. They allow over 76.8 points per game while scoring at nearly the same clip. Xavier’s tempo-based approach can work when shots are falling, but all too often opponents catch fire as well to turn games into track meets. The Musketeers are especially vulnerable on the road, where their three-point shooting and turnover margins dip significantly. Xavier allows over 78 points per road contest while scoring just 73.4 themselves. They will need major improvements on both ends to challenge one of the nation’s top teams in UConn.

Examining UConn’s Well-Balanced Formula

The Huskies have ascended into the AP Top 5 thanks to an incredibly consistent two-way performance. They outscore opponents by over 10 points per game behind an offense ranked 13th nationally at 81.1 per contest. Defensively, UConn allows just 70.8 points on 41.3% shooting. Unlike Xavier, the Huskies boast quality depth with seven players averaging between 15.4 and 8.2 points. UConn also protects the ball well, committing the 27th-fewest turnovers nationally. That disciplined approach fuels their high-percentage offense. The Huskies shoot 49.4% from the field and 35.1% on threes as a team.

NCAAB Betting Odds: TBD, Over/Under: TBD

The betting odds for this game are yet to be finalized, but the trends and stats provide a glimpse into what bettors can expect. Given UConn’s formidable record and home advantage, they are likely to be the favorites.

Trends

Xavier Musketeers Betting Trends

Xavier are 3-2 in their last 5 games.
Musketeers are 3-2 in their last 5 games against the spread
Xavier are 5-2 in their road games against the spread
The totals have gone OVER in 5 of Xavier’ last 5 games
The totals have gone OVER in 7 of Xavier’ 12 last games at home

UConn Huskies Betting Trends

UConn are 5-0 in their last 5 games.
Huskies are 3-2 in their last 5 games against the spread
UConn are 5-3 in their road games against the spread
The totals have gone OVER in 3 of UConn’ last 5 games
The totals have gone OVER in 7 of UConn’ 11 last games at home