The Kentucky Wildcats (22-11) are set to face the Troy Trojans (23-10) in the first round of the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 21, 2025, at Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:10 PM EST, with television coverage on CBS. What’s the best bet in tonight’s Troy vs. Kentucky matchup?
Game Matchup & Betting Odds
Troy Trojans (+11.5) vs. Kentucky Wildcats (-11.5); o/u 151.5
7:10 p.m. ET, Friday, March 21, 2025
Fiserv Forum, Milwaukee, WI
TV: CBS
Troy vs. Kentucky Public Betting: Bettors Leaning Wildcats
Our CBB Public Betting Information page indicates that 55% of public bettors are currently backing Kentucky 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
Kentucky enters the tournament as a No. 3 seed, boasting a high-octane offense that averages 85.3 points per game. The Wildcats are led by junior guard Lamont Butler, who has been pivotal in both scoring and playmaking. Butler has been dealing with ankle and shoulder injuries but participated in recent practice sessions, indicating potential readiness for the game. Kentucky’s season has been marked by significant victories against top-tier teams, showcasing their capability to perform under pressure.
Troy, the No. 14 seed, earned its tournament spot by winning the Sun Belt Championship. In the championship game, junior guard Tayton Conerway delivered a standout performance, scoring 16 points in the final 10 minutes to lead a comeback victory. The Trojans have demonstrated resilience and the ability to perform in clutch situations, making them a formidable opponent.
Key Matchup Factors
Guard Play: The duel between Kentucky’s Lamont Butler and Troy’s Tayton Conerway will be pivotal. Both players are instrumental in their teams’ offensive strategies, and their performance could significantly influence the game’s outcome.
Rebounding: Troy has shown proficiency in rebounding, particularly on the defensive end, which could limit Kentucky’s second-chance opportunities. Controlling the boards will be crucial for both teams.
Experience: Kentucky’s roster, while having extensive collegiate experience, lacks substantial NCAA Tournament exposure. Their ability to adapt to the tournament’s intensity will be a factor to watch.
Betting Odds
According to oddsmakers from online sportsbook Bovada.lv, Kentucky is favored by 11.5 points, with the over/under set at 151.5 points.
Troy vs. Kentucky CBB Prediction:
Give me the Men of Troy. The Trojans have won eight out of their last 10 games overall, covering in eight of those 10 contests in the process. Entering play tonight, the Trojans have won six straight games overall and six straight at the window.
Troy vs. Kentucky Hoops Prediction: TROY TROJANS +11.5