The Arizona Wildcats (22-12) are set to face the Akron Zips (28-6) in the first round of the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 21, 2025, at Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle, Washington. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:35 PM EST, with television coverage on truTV. What’s the smart bet in tonight’s Akron vs. Arizona matchup?
Game Matchup & Betting Odds
Akron Zips (+14) vs. Arizona Wildcats (-14); o/u 167
7:35 p.m. ET, Friday, March 21, 2025
Climate Pledge Arena, Seattle, WA
TV: truTV
Akron vs. Arizona Public Betting: Bettors taking Points
Our CBB Public Betting Information page indicates that 67% of public bettors are currently backing Akron when it comes to the spread. This information is subject to change throughout the day, however, so be sure to check the link so you’re receiving the most up-to-date public betting data.
Team Overviews
Arizona enters the tournament as a No. 4 seed. The Wildcats are led by star guard Caleb Love, who has been instrumental in their offensive strategies. Additionally, seven-foot sophomore Henri Veesaar could play a pivotal role against the smaller Akron team.
Akron, the No. 13 seed, has had a remarkable season, boasting a 20-1 record in Mid-American Conference (MAC) play. The Zips are known for their high-scoring offense, averaging 84.6 points per game, and have outscored opponents by an average of 10.1 points per game. Despite their success, Akron has yet to secure a win in NCAA Tournament history.
Key Matchup Factors
Rebounding: Arizona leads the Big 12 in rebounding, averaging 36.2 boards per game, with Tobe Awaka contributing 7.8 rebounds per game. Controlling the boards will be crucial in limiting Akron’s second-chance opportunities.
Offensive Prowess: Both teams have high-scoring offenses, with Arizona averaging 81.7 points per game and Akron 84.6. The ability to execute defensive stops will be a determining factor in the game’s outcome.
Tournament Experience: Arizona has a history of being eliminated by lower-seeded teams since 2016, which may influence their approach to this matchup. Akron, despite their impressive season, has yet to secure a tournament win, adding motivation to their performance.
Betting Odds
According to oddsmakers from online sportsbook Bovada.lv, Arizona is favored by 13.5 points, with the over/under set at 166.5 points. Experts predict a final score around 88-75 in favor of Arizona.
Akron vs. Arizona CBB Prediction:
Considering Arizona’s rebounding advantage and offensive capabilities, the Wildcats will expected to advance, though Akron’s high-scoring offense should keep the game competitive. At the very least, I see this game turning into a high-scoring affair.
Akron vs. Arizona Hoops Prediction: OVER 167