The New Mexico Lobos (26-7) are set to face the Marquette Golden Eagles (23-10) in the first round of the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 21, 2025, at Rocket Arena in Cleveland, Ohio. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:25 p.m. EDT, with television coverage on TBS. What’s the smart bet in tonight’s New Mexico vs. Marquette matchup?
Game Matchup & Betting Odds
New Mexico Lobos (+4) vs. Marquette Golden Eagles (-4); o/u 153
7:25 p.m. ET, Friday, March 21, 2025
Rocket Arena, Cleveland, OH
TV: TBS
New Mexico vs. Marquette Public Betting: Bettors Leaning Golden Eagles
Our CBB Public Betting Information page indicates that 54% of public bettors are currently backing Marquette 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
New Mexico enters the tournament as a No. 10 seed, led by head coach Richard Pitino. The Lobos have had a strong season, finishing 17-3 in the Mountain West Conference. They are known for their fast-paced tempo, strong defensive rebounding, and effective transition offense. Key players include sophomore guard Donovan Dent, who averages 20.6 points and 6.4 assists per game, and forward Nelly Junior Joseph, who leads the team in rebounds.
Marquette, the No. 7 seed, finished with a 14-8 record in the Big East Conference. The Golden Eagles are led by All-American guard Kam Jones, who averages 19.3 points and 5.9 assists per game. Marquette’s offense is notable for its efficiency, with the team averaging 9.4 made three-pointers per game.
Key Matchup Factors
Guard Play: The matchup between New Mexico’s Donovan Dent and Marquette’s Kam Jones will be pivotal. Both players are central to their teams’ offenses, and their performance could significantly influence the game’s outcome.
Tempo and Transition: New Mexico’s fast-paced style and emphasis on transition offense will challenge Marquette’s defense. The Golden Eagles will need to control the tempo to prevent the Lobos from capitalizing on fast-break opportunities.
Three-Point Shooting: Marquette’s reliance on three-point shooting, averaging 9.4 made threes per game, could be a deciding factor. New Mexico’s perimeter defense will need to be effective to limit Marquette’s scoring from beyond the arc.
Betting Odds and Predictions
According to oddsmakers from online sportsbook Bovada.lv, Marquette is favored by 3.5 points, with the over/under set at 152.5 points. Experts predict a closely contested game, with a final score around 75-74 in favor of Marquette.
New Mexico vs. Marquette CBB Prediction:
Considering both teams’ strengths and recent performances, this matchup is expected to be competitive. Marquette’s offensive efficiency and experience in high-pressure games may provide a slight edge. That said, I’m taking the Lobos to cover.
New Mexico vs. Marquette Hoops Prediction: NEW MEXICO LOBOS +4