The Norfolk State Spartans (24-10) are set to face the Florida Gators (30-4) in the first round of the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 21, 2025, at Lenovo Center in Raleigh, North Carolina. Tip-off is scheduled for 6:50 p.m. EDT, with television coverage on TNT. What’s the best bet in today’s Norfolk State vs. Florida matchup?
Game Matchup & Betting Odds
Norfolk State Spartans (+28.5) vs. Florida Gators (-28.5); o/u 153.5
6:50 p.m. ET, Friday, March 21, 2025
Lenovo Center, Raleigh, NC
TV: TNT
Norfolk State vs. Florida Public Betting: Bettors Love Gators
Our CBB Public Betting Information page indicates that 68% of public bettors are currently backing Florida 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
Norfolk State enters the tournament as a No. 16 seed after winning the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) tournament. The Spartans are led by head coach Robert Jones, a New York City native who emphasizes toughness and intensity. Their standout player is junior guard Brian Moore from Harlem, who leads the team with 18.4 points per game. Norfolk State has a history of tournament upsets, notably their 2012 victory over Missouri, and they aim to channel that spirit in this matchup.
Florida, the No. 1 seed in the West Region, boasts a 30-4 record and has been dominant throughout the season. The Gators have a potent offense, averaging 88 points per game, and a stifling defense, allowing just 65 points per game. They are led by junior guard Kenny Boynton, who averages 20 points per game, and freshman Bradley Beal, contributing 14 points, nine rebounds, and three assists per game.
Key Matchup Factors
Guard Play: The performance of Norfolk State’s Brian Moore against Florida’s backcourt, particularly Kenny Boynton and Bradley Beal, will be crucial. Moore’s ability to penetrate and score will be tested against Florida’s defensive guards.
Rebounding: Norfolk State’s ability to compete on the boards, especially against Beal, who is a strong rebounder for a guard, could influence second-chance points and overall game tempo.
Experience and Depth: Florida’s depth and experience in high-pressure games may provide an advantage, especially if the game pace favors their up-tempo style.
Betting Odds
According to oddsmakers from Bovada.lv, Florida is favored by 28.5 points, with the over/under set at 153.5 points.
Norfolk State vs. Florida CBB Prediction:
I love the Gators but this is too many points. Auburn was a whopping 32-point favorite on Thursday afternoon against an overmatched Alabama State program and the Tigers didn’t come close to covering. I like UF to win the entire tournament. But I’ll be fading them on Friday evening.
Norfolk State vs. Florida Hoops Prediction: NORFOLK STATE SPARTANS +28.5