The Vanderbilt Commodores (20-12) are set to face the Saint Mary’s Gaels (28-5) in the first round of the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 21, 2025. The game will be held at Rocket Arena in Cleveland, Ohio. Tip-off is scheduled for 3:15 p.m. ET, with television coverage on truTV. What’s the best bet in today’s Vanderbilt vs. Saint Mary’s matchup?
Game Matchup & Betting Odds
Vanderbilt Commodores (+4) vs. Saint Mary’s Gaels (-4); o/u 135.5
3:15 p.m. ET, Friday, March 21, 2025
Rocket Arena, Cleveland, OH
TV: truTV
Vanderbilt vs. Saint Mary’s Public Betting: Bettors Leaning Gaels
Our CBB Public Betting Information page indicates that 58% of public bettors are currently backing Saint Mary’s when it comes to the spread. This information is subject to change throughout the day. Be sure to check the link so you’re receiving the most up-to-date public betting data.
Team Overviews
Vanderbilt enters the tournament with a dynamic offense, averaging 79.6 points per game. The Commodores are led by junior guard Jordan Edwards, who contributes 17.0 points per game. He has a 43.4% field goal percentage and an 83.1% free throw rate. Senior forward Derek McGlockton anchors the interior, averaging 7.9 rebounds per game.
Saint Mary’s boasts a formidable defense, allowing just 60.7 points per game, ranking fifth nationally. Offensively, they are paced by senior guard Augustas Marciulionis, who averages 14.3 points and 6.1 assists per game. Freshman forward Paulius Murauskas leads the team in rebounding with 8.0 boards per game.
Key Matchup Factors
Rebounding Battle: Saint Mary’s excels on the boards and leads the nation with a +10.7 rebounding margin per game. This is largely due to 6-foot-10 senior center Mitchell Saxen. Vanderbilt ranked 198th in rebounding margin. Thus, they will need to address this disparity to compete effectively.
Tempo and Style: The Gaels prefer a deliberate pace and stout defense. This contrasts with the Commodores’ faster tempo and high-scoring offense. Controlling the game’s rhythm will be crucial for both teams.
Betting Odds and Predictions
According to oddsmakers from online sportsbook Bovada.lv, Saint Mary’s is favored by 4 points. The over/under is set at 135.5 points. ESPN’s Basketball Power Index gives the Gaels a 66% chance of winning. It projects a final score around 75-70 in favor of Saint Mary’s.
Vanderbilt vs. Saint Mary’s CBB Prediction:
The Commodores enter play having dropped three consecutive games both straight up and against the spread. Saint Mary’s, meanwhile, has only lost twice over its last 10 games. One loss came against Gonzaga in the conference title game.
Considering Saint Mary’s defensive prowess and rebounding advantage, they are likely to control the game’s tempo. Vanderbilt’s offensive capabilities may challenge the Gaels, but the prediction leans toward Saint Mary’s securing a victory.
Vanderbilt vs. Saint Mary’s Hoops Prediction: SAINT MARY’S GAELS -4