The Oklahoma Sooners (20-13) are set to face the UConn Huskies (23-10) in the first round of the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 21, 2025. The game will be held at Lenovo Center in Raleigh, North Carolina, with tip-off scheduled for 9:25 p.m. EDT. What’s the best bet in tonight’s Oklahoma vs. UConn matchup?
Game Matchup & Betting Odds
Oklahoma Sooners (+5.5) vs. UConn Huskies (-5.5); o/u 148.5
9:25 p.m. ET, Friday, March 21, 2025
Lenovo Center, Raleigh, NC
TV: TNT
Oklahoma vs. UConn Public Betting: Bettors Leaning Huskies
Our CBB Public Betting Information page indicates that 55% of public bettors are currently backing UConn 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
Oklahoma enters the tournament as a No. 9 seed. The Sooners began the season with a strong 13-0 start but faced challenges in Southeastern Conference (SEC) play, finishing with a 7-13 conference record. Freshman guard Jeremiah Fears has been a standout performer, averaging 17 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game. His dynamic play has been central to Oklahoma’s offensive strategies.
UConn, the No. 8 seed, is the two-time defending national champion. The Huskies concluded the regular season with a 23-10 record, including a 15-7 mark in Big East play. UConn’s roster boasts experience and depth, with key contributions from players like Alex Karaban. The team is known for its defensive prowess and balanced offensive attack.
Key Matchup Factors
Guard Play: The performance of Oklahoma’s Jeremiah Fears will be pivotal. UConn’s defense will need to focus on limiting his impact to disrupt the Sooners’ offensive rhythm.
Experience and Championship Pedigree: UConn’s recent success in the NCAA Tournament provides them with valuable experience in high-pressure situations. This could be an advantage against an Oklahoma team that has shown inconsistency during conference play.
Coaching Strategies: Both teams are led by accomplished coaches. UConn’s Dan Hurley has guided the team to back-to-back national championships, while Oklahoma’s Porter Moser has a strong tournament record, including a previous Final Four appearance with Loyola-Chicago.
Betting Odds
According to oddsmakers from online sportsbook Bovada.lv, UConn is favored by 5.5 points, with the over/under set at 147.5 points. Experts anticipate a closely contested game, with projections suggesting a final score around 79-77 in favor of UConn.
Oklahoma vs. UConn CBB Prediction:
Considering UConn’s tournament experience and defensive capabilities, the Huskies are expected to have a slight edge in this matchup. However, Oklahoma’s dynamic offense, led by Jeremiah Fears, could pose significant challenges. Even if the defending champs find a way to advance, the Sooners will keep this game close.
Oklahoma vs. UConn Hoops Prediction: OKLAHOMA SOONERS +5.5