March is here, and with it comes the most exciting stretch of the college basketball season. The regular season is winding down, and teams are making their final push before conference tournaments and the madness that follows. With only a handful of games left, the stakes are higher than ever. Some teams are fighting for seeding, others are clawing for a spot in the Big Dance, and a few are just looking to end their seasons on a high note. As we dive into the last weekend of regular season action, it’s time for another round of free picks against the spread—a 20-leg betting adventure featuring some of the most intriguing lines of the weekend.
FREE COLLEGE BASKETBALL PICKS AGAINST THE SPREAD FOR MARCH 8, 2025
St. John’s University (+3.5) – Can the Red Storm keep it close in a critical matchup?
Kentucky (+5.5) – The Wildcats look to cover against a tough opponent.
Georgia (-5.5) – A favorable line for the Bulldogs at home.
Wisconsin (-11) – The Badgers aim to dominate in their final home game.
Kansas State (+6.5) – The Wildcats fight to stay competitive.
Louisville (-11) – Louisville seeks a big win to cap off the season.
Yale University (-7.5) – The Ivy League race heats up.
Tennessee Volunteers (-16.5) – The Vols hope to cruise to victory.
Wake Forest University (-6.5) – A strong play for the Demon Deacons.
Seton Hall University (+18.5) – The Pirates look to cover a big spread.
University of Alabama (+7.5) – Can Bama pull off the upset or at least keep it close?
Drake University (-7.5) – A strong mid-major play.
Louisiana State University (+6.5) – LSU fights to stay relevant.
University of Arizona (+3.5) – The Wildcats look to outshine expectations.
Clemson University (-17.5) – A big team that thrives on punishing opponents inside, but is this spread too big for them to cover?
University of Florida (-11.5) – Gators look to cover with ease.
UNC(+10.5) – A big spread for a blue-blood program
Texas Tech University (-11.5) – Red Raiders aim to finish strong.
With all these matchups on deck, this weekend is shaping up to be an exciting one. Whether you’re tailing these picks, making your own adjustments, or just enjoying the final weekend of regular-season college hoops, there’s plenty to look forward to before the madness begins. Be sure to follow along with #SuspectSpreadsSaturday for more insights and analysis!
March Madness is almost here, and every college basketball fan wants an edge. Whether you’re tracking injuries, scouting underdogs, or looking for fun destinations to experience the madness firsthand, CollegeBasketballeyetest.com has you covered. Our latest Elite 8 Articles connect you with the most important topics leading up to the tournament.
📲 Your One-Stop Shop for College Hoops
We dive deep into the latest trends, hidden betting opportunities, and must-watch storylines. These articles guide you through every aspect of the tournament:
🔥 Top Injuries to Watch – Key players battling injuries could make or break their team’s chances. Stay informed before placing any bets.
🏀 Sons of NBA Stars – Meet the next generation of basketball royalty making waves in college hoops.
🐶 Top 5 Underrated Underdogs – Every year, a few lower-seeded teams make a deep run. These are the squads to keep an eye on.
🎉 6 March Madness Traditions – From historic buzzer-beaters to iconic pep bands, relive the best traditions of the tournament.
📊 Season ATS Standings – Betting against the spread? Check which teams have been the most (and least) profitable all season.
💰 This Week’s Best Picks – Get expert insights on the best value plays leading up to Selection Sunday.
🕵️♂️ Fun Matchups the Committee Could Conspire – Which potential tournament matchups could stir up the most drama? We break down the possibilities.
✈️ Four Fun Destinations to Travel for March Madness – Want to experience the madness in person? Here are four great cities to catch the action live.
With these deep dives, our site connects college basketball fans to the info they crave. Click through to any article and stay ahead of the game this March! 🚀
When I say “the committee,” what do you think of? If you envision the power players who sit together on Selection Sunday to reveal the most unrivaled postseason format in U.S. Sports History, you would be correct. The committee is just days (or maybe hours depending on when you’re reading this) away from unveiling the Division 1 Men’s College Basketball Tournament bracket. With so many superior teams at the top of the rankings, there are sure to be some intriguing matchups with the middle of the pack. As much attention and sometimes scorn that this group gets, the tournament committee routinely fixes matchups that offer awesome storylines.
(This is one of 6 fixed traditions that I expect each year from the bracket – click here to see those).
And while you anxiously await the bracket, here are 5 fun matchups to hope for.
Border War Between Missouri and Kansas Could Re-ignite
The rivalry between Kansas and Missouri dates back much further than the Jayhawks and the Tigers. It dates back to the conflicts that preceded the American Civil War. Therefore, this basketball matchup was always a highly intense event. Kansas and Missouri spent years battling it out on the hardwood as they were Big 12 (or Big 8) conference rivals. In recent years, Missouri joined the SEC but had the good sense to still respect this history and schedule a non-conference matchup against each other. Although this has led to plenty of hotly contested games, nothing would stir the pot more dramatically than head-to-head combat in the NCAA Tournament.
The author of this blog is also a YouTube producer who created a horror stories series featuring many ghost stories dating back to Bleeding Kansas Era. Click here to watch some.
With KU struggling to finish its season strong, it could be dropping to a 6 or 7 seed. This could put them in position to play a 2 or 3 seeded Missouri Tigers team in the field of 32.
The violent confrontations between Kansas and Missouri during the Civil War era are commonly referred to as “Bleeding Kansas” or the “Border War.” These terms describe the series of violent civil confrontations between pro-slavery and anti-slavery forces in the Kansas Territory and western Missouri between 1854 and 1859. The conflict was characterized by electoral fraud, raids, assaults, and murders carried out by pro-slavery “border ruffians” and retaliatory raids by anti-slavery “free-staters.” This period of violence significantly shaped American politics and contributed to the onset of the Civil War.
Pitinos Pitted Against Each Other?
When it comes to teams he previously coached, legend Rick Pitino has plenty of exes. There’s Iona, Louisville, Kentucky — all of which could make this year’s tourney. And if the NCAA Tournament bracket falls into place just right, college basketball fans could witness a rare and emotionally charged showdown between a father and son on the sidelines. St. John’s is having a storybook season where Pitino has resurrected the program to already clinch a Big East regular season title as March begins.
With Rick Pitino’s St. John’s squad projected as a potential No. 2 or 3 seed, and his son Richard Pitino’s New Mexico team positioned as a dangerous 10 or 11 seed, the path to an unforgettable coaching clash is on the table. Should the Lobos pull off a first-round victory, the second-round matchup could pit the legendary Hall of Fame coach against his own son, turning the family dynamic into a high-stakes chess match on college basketball’s biggest stage. It would be a moment filled with pride, strategy, and inevitable heartbreak—one Pitino would move on, the other would go home.
Chucky’s Revenge
Now that the transfer portal has become a mainstay of how college basketball rosters are filled out, there will be no shortage of opportunities for awkward reunions. Players who thought they were tranfersring to greener pastures will undoubtedly face a program that has done fine without them, also qualifying for the tourney. Among those intriguing storylines brewing—one that could pit Louisville’s Chucky Hepburn against his former Wisconsin team in a high-stakes, win-or-go-home battle. With both programs eyeing a spot in the field of 68, a potential reunion on the court wouldn’t just be compelling—it would be personal.
Hepburn, who spent three seasons as Wisconsin’s floor general before transferring to Louisville, has quickly become an integral piece for the Cardinals. His defensive tenacity and poise under pressure once made him a beloved figure in Madison, but now, those same traits could spell trouble for the Badgers should they meet in the tournament. Depending on how the bracket shakes out, Louisville could enter as a lower-seeded team looking to pull off an upset, while Wisconsin’s steadier season might earn them a more favorable placement. That kind of disparity would only heighten the drama if the two programs are matched up in the early rounds.
If the selection committee delivers this potential clash, fans would be treated to a rare and emotionally charged battle where Hepburn’s deep knowledge of Wisconsin’s system could work in Louisville’s favor. Would his familiarity with Greg Gard’s schemes give the Cardinals an edge? Or would the Badgers’ defense, one he helped define during his tenure in Madison, have the perfect blueprint to shut him down?
Fingerprints of Former Florida Atlantic Stars All Over Tourney Bracket
Speaking of the transfer portal, the Cinderella story of the 2023 NCAA Tournament will have its fingerprints all over this college basketball bracket. Four former Owls—Johnell Davis (Arkansas), Alijah Martin (Florida), Vladislav Goldin (Michigan), and Nick Boyd (San Diego State) are all key contributors on their new teams. With each of their squads in the mix for a March Madness berth, the tournament could deliver an emotional reunion—this time as opponents.
Davis, the explosive guard who helped lead FAU’s magical run, has brought his scoring prowess to Arkansas, while Martin is making his presence felt at Florida. Goldin, a dominant force in the paint, provides Michigan with size and rim protection, and Boyd’s veteran leadership has been crucial for a normally mature San Diego State program.
Even the 2023 FAU’s head coach Dusty May could resurface in this storyline. He cashed in the 2023 run for a head coaching position at Michigan and took Vladislav Goldin with him.
Even Brenen Lorient, a role player at best on that FAU Final 4 team, could pop onto the radar screen. His North Texas Mean Green team wouldn’t be a big surprise to win the American Athletic Conference tournament because they’re currently slated as a 2 seed there. They’d likely have to knock off AP Top 25 team Memphis in the process.
Matty D here from CollegeBasketballItest.com, and I’m back again with another round of early college basketball picks. This approach worked well for me last week, and I’m looking to keep the momentum going. Let’s dive into some suspect spreads and intriguing matchups from today’s slate.
Tennessee vs. Texas A&M
Texas A&M is favored by 1.5 points in this matchup against Tennessee. This might come as a surprise considering I’ve been high on Texas A&M as a potential championship contender at 40 or 50 to 1 odds. However, despite my faith in the Aggies, I think Tennessee is the better team. The Vols haven’t played to their full potential over the last month, but I see this as a good spot for them. I’m taking Tennessee and the 1.5 points here.
Oregon vs. Wisconsin
Oregon is an 8.5-point underdog against Wisconsin. The Badgers have been playing strong basketball recently, but Oregon is fighting for a tournament spot, and 8.5 points is a lot to be giving up. I like Oregon to cover in this one.
Florida State vs. Louisville
Louisville is favored by 13.5 points against Florida State. The Seminoles have struggled lately, and with Louisville’s up-tempo style of play under head coach Pat Kelsey, I think they have the potential to cover the spread. They’re a top-25 team, and with their current momentum, they could handle this one convincingly.
Texas Tech vs. West Virginia
West Virginia is laying 11.5 points against Texas Tech. This is a tough game to call, especially with West Virginia missing one of its key players, Tucker DeVries, whose father, Darian DeVries, is the team’s head coach. If I had to pick, I’d lean toward West Virginia, but this might be a game to avoid altogether.
Iowa State vs. Houston
One of the marquee matchups of the day features Iowa State taking on Houston. Both teams are elite defensively and could make deep tournament runs. Surprisingly, Iowa State is getting 11.5 points. In what should be a low-scoring defensive battle, that’s a big number to be receiving. I like Iowa State to cover, especially since they might be looking for a bounce-back performance after a disappointing showing recently.
Georgia vs. Auburn
Auburn is a 16.5-point favorite against Georgia. The Bulldogs have been a tough out for some SEC teams this season, making this a tricky game. I’m staying away from this one because I don’t want to be sweating in the final moments to see if Auburn covers or not.
Clemson vs. SMU
SMU put on an offensive clinic against Notre Dame recently, so I’m surprised to see them as an underdog at home against Clemson. With SMU getting 1.5 points, I’m taking them in this spot.
Oklahoma State vs. Kansas
Kansas is giving 14.5 points to Oklahoma State, and I don’t think they should be laying that many points to anyone right now. The Jayhawks have been inconsistent, especially during their trip out west against Utah and BYU. I’ll probably stay away from this game entirely, but if I had to pick, I’d take Oklahoma State with the points.
Florida vs. LSU
Florida is favored by 10.5 points against LSU. The Tigers are one of the few SEC teams unlikely to make the tournament, while Florida is in contention for a No. 1 seed. I believe Florida can cover the spread here, as they have much more at stake.
Kentucky vs. Alabama
This game was an instant classic when these two teams faced off in Lexington on MLK weekend. Now, Kentucky is a 10.5-point underdog as they travel to Alabama. That spread seems a bit high, but I’ll be holding off on making a final call until I see more developments.
St. Mary’s Visits Gonzaga as a 6 Point Favorite
St. Mary’s and Gonzaga battled things out about a month ago with St. Mary’s hosting as a slight underdog. In a bizarre display of many missed free throws, the Gaels survived an ugly contest. I just think Gonzaga is overdue for a good showing here at home and a quality win to solidify a tournament berth as a lower seed than we’re used to seeing the Bulldogs. My guess is that they’ll finish the season as a 9 or 10 seed.
College Basketball Against the Spread Picks – Closing Thought
That wraps up my early thoughts as I roll out of bed, checking for suspect spreads. Be sure to check out my website, CollegeBasketballItest.com, as well as my YouTube and Twitter for more picks and insights. Let me know what you’re seeing today, and enjoy the action!
The Super Bowl is over a new wave of sports fans is turning its attention to the college basketball season. It’s been an above .500 showing for Matty D. and the College Basketball Eye Test picks thus far in 2025. Let’s see if we can continue the momentum!
As we settle into the action, let’s take a look at some of the most compelling matchups of the day and what they mean for the landscape of college hoops.
Clemson vs. Florida State: Two Teams in Opposite Directions
One of the early matchups on the schedule sees Clemson traveling to Florida State, and these programs are heading in very different directions. Florida State is in transition, with Coach Leonard Hamilton announcing that this will be his final season at the helm. The Seminoles have struggled to find consistency, and their season has reflected the uncertainty surrounding the program’s future.
Clemson, on the other hand, is surging and might just be establishing itself as the second-best team in the ACC behind Duke. A key piece of their success has been Victor Lakhin, a transfer from Cincinnati who has bolstered the team’s defense. He currently leads the conference in blocked shots, adding an intimidating presence in the paint. With momentum on their side, I expect Clemson to take care of business on the road in what could be another statement win for the Tigers.
Texas A&M vs. Arkansas: Can the Aggies Cover the Spread?
Another game to watch is Texas A&M hosting Arkansas, where the Aggies are favored by eight points. While I’m high on Texas A&M overall, that spread feels too large given their style of play. Coach Buzz Williams likes to go deep into his bench, routinely playing 10 or 11 guys. While that’s a great strategy for building depth, it doesn’t always translate into blowout wins, especially against a team like Arkansas that is still fighting for a tournament berth.
Arkansas has had an up-and-down season, but they are still a dangerous team under Coach John Calipari. While they have struggled to stay consistent, they have enough talent to keep things interesting. I like Texas A&M to win outright, but I wouldn’t be surprised if Arkansas keeps it closer than expected.
Michigan State vs. Illinois: The Best Bet of the Day?
One of the most intriguing matchups of the day is Michigan State traveling to Illinois. Oddsmakers have Illinois as a heavy favorite, but I don’t quite understand that line. This matchup plays right into the strengths of Michigan State, and I think Coach Tom Izzo’s squad has a real shot at pulling off the upset.
Illinois has been plagued by turnovers, sometimes making inexplicable mistakes that could prove costly against a disciplined, well-coached opponent like Michigan State. Meanwhile, one of Illinois’s biggest strengths is their ability to crash the offensive boards, but Michigan State is built to neutralize that advantage. The Spartans are a tough, physical team that won’t allow Illinois many second-chance points, and that could be the deciding factor in this game.
If Michigan State does win, it would be a huge validation of their spot near the top 10 rankings. Keep an eye on this one—it could be the upset of the day.
Final Thoughts
With March Madness fast approaching, every game matters. Clemson looks like a force in the ACC, Texas A&M needs to prove they can cover a big spread, and Michigan State might just be the best underdog bet of the day. Whatever happens, today’s action is sure to have major implications for the tournament picture.
Enjoy the games, and let me know what you think about today’s matchups!
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What teams could make a late season surge in college basketball?
The question in college basketball is not who are the top teams, but instead we are keeping an eye on which teams could move from unranked to tournament sleeper. With an active transfer portal in the offseason, it’s hard to keep track of rosters from year to year. Who is on what team? The truth is that many teams in the top 10 have continuity from the past year, but then the next top 50 teams or so are fluid. There’s a lot of team chemistry that is still building, with head coaches like Kentucky’s Mark Pope a mad scientist experimenting with different lineups in an AAU-like scramble to achieve cohesion in one season.
College basketball’s favorites and underdogs for a 2024-2025 NCAA Championship
The top of the list has remained mostly the same. Duke and Auburn are taking turns as the nation’s number 1 overall ranked team, and therefore the lowest odds to win a title. As this article is being published, each team sits around 6-1 to win it all. Duke and Auburn started the season in that same 10-1 vicinity. They were joined then, and continue to be joined now, by Kansas, Gonzaga, Houston, UCONN, and Iowa State in the second tier of teams in the 10-1 to 25-1 range. Once you start reading below the 25-1 line, things get really dicey. There is a lot of volatility within college basketball’s rankings of say the 20th overall teams and the 60th overall teams. In late November, teams like UNC, Arkansas and Indiana were in the conversation as a third teir of title contenders. However, now those teams would be happy to even make the tournament.
A screenshot of DraftKings odds in late November shows how much has changed
What college basketball teams are underrated right now?
The team that probably headlines a list of surprising, surging, underdog teams, is the Louisville Cardinals. Led by longtime Wisconsin Badger point guard Chucky Hepburn and head coach Pat Kelsey, this team is really starting to put it together. In mid-January, the Cardinals raced away with a win against Syracuse at the former Carrier Dome. Coach Pat Kelsey is known for his track meet style, but even that 85-61 should make you pay attention. This team could race its way into a dangerous 5 or 6 seed before we know it.
Another team worth watching is UCF. Lefty Keyshawn Hall just dropped 40 on Arizona State in their building (including 29 in the first half) to bolster their record to 12-4.
UCF is not the only surprising team in the newly-mixed Big 12. West Virginia is a bubble team and has notched important resumes wins so far including a New Year’s Eve win at Allen Fieldhouse. Former Drake head coach Darian Devries has taken his talents (and his son Tucker) to Morgantown with a balanced athletic team led by top scorer Javon Small. This team features six players averaging at least 4 1/2 rebounds per game. When you watch, you’ll see they play for each other.
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What NCAAB teams to watch for on Saturday, January 18, 2025
UConn’s quest to 3-peat as champions is a testament to their resilience and their ability to adapt in high-pressure situations. After a turbulent holiday season marred by losses to Memphis, Colorado, and Dayton, the Huskies looked far from their championship form. However, with the emergence of their star freshman—Liam McNeeley—and the steady leadership of Coach Dan Hurley, UConn has regained its focus. The freshman phenom has electrified the court, leading the team in scoring and providing the spark they needed during a critical midseason stretch. As the Huskies prepare for March Madness, their ability to rebound from adversity and channel their championship pedigree will be key to securing a historic third consecutive title.
Clemson and Wake Forest find themselves in a prime position to take control of an ACC conference that is facing an identity crisis. After Duke’s dominance at the top of the pack, tournament seeds are up for grabs in the league with traditional powers like Syracuse, UNC, and UVA experiencing user error. Clemson has shown flashes of brilliance this season, with a strong defense and an emerging backcourt duo. Meanwhile, Wake Forest’s Steve Forbes is poised to make his mark. After several years of building his program, Forbes has assembled a team capable of making noise in the ACC. His emphasis on tough, physical basketball and disciplined play could give Wake Forest the edge it needs to capitalize on a wide-open conference race. The opportunity is there for the taking, but both teams will need to show consistency and poise as the season heats up.
In the Missouri Valley Conference, Drake is under pressure to prove it is the cream of the crop. Currently boasting a solid record and led by their prolific scorer Bennett Stirtz, who is averaging almost 18 points per game, the Bulldogs have been the team to beat in their league. However, questions remain about their ability to dominate when it matters most. With key matchups against rival programs on the horizon, Drake has the chance to solidify its status as a powerhouse in the conference. To do so, they’ll need to continue their balanced approach—combining high-octane offense with a stingy defense that can shut down opponents in crunch time. The Bulldogs’ performance over the next few weeks will be critical not just for their NCAA tournament aspirations but also for cementing their legacy within the Missouri Valley Conference.
Last but not least: Picks for Saturday, January 18th:
This is a teaser pick on FanDuel that took advantage of a 13-leg promotional105% boost. Louisville -10.5, UK 6.5, Clemoson +9.5, UCONN -1.5, Auburn +2.5, Wake Forest +4.5, Cincy -3.5, Xavier +15.5, Tennessee +2.5, Mizzou +3.5, Drake +1.5, A&M -5.5, BYU +6.5.
Following in Their Fathers’ Footsteps: NBA Sons in Division I Basketball
The 2024-25 crop of second-generation basketball players might not go down as the most impressive in recent history. In fact, compared to the star-studded classes of the past decade, this year’s group could be among the least impactful when it comes to shaping the tournament field. But that’s part of what makes their story so fascinating. Even with famous last names and NBA pedigrees, these players are largely flying under the radar. While they may not dominate the headlines for their on-court performances, their presence during March Madness remains a compelling human interest story—a nod to basketball’s enduring legacy and the unique challenges of stepping out of a famous parent’s shadow. That said, a few of these lesser-known legacy players could surprise us with key moments when the stakes are highest.
Notable Sons of NBA Players in Division I Basketball
Saint Mary’sGuard Augustas Marčiulionis Leads Class of 2nd Generation Players
Following in the footsteps of his legendary father, Šarūnas Marčiulionis, Augustas has become a key contributor for Saint Mary’s. Šarūnas, a pioneer for international basketball talent, brought Lithuania to global prominence and paved the way for countless players from abroad to succeed in the NBA. Augustas carries that torch with pride, using his high basketball IQ, sharp passing, and defensive grit to make a difference for the Gaels. While Saint Mary’s may not be a powerhouse, their disciplined, team-oriented play could see them make a deep run in the tournament, with Augustas playing a crucial role.
The elder Marčiulionis was a part of the talented core of “Dream Team” era players from the former Soviet Union that redefined what a overseas player looked like in the NBA.
Son of MSU Great and Golden State Warrior Jason Richadson Balling Out
If we were to make a starting five of the best second generation players actually balling out right now, Jase Richardson would be our starting shooting guard. His Michigan State Spartans are consistently ranked in the AP Top 10 this season after implementing Tom Izzo’s patented toughness and togetherness.
For you youngin’s reading this article, Jase’s father was a part of the resurrgence of the Golden State Warriors. After the Run TMC fame of the early 1990s, the Warriors were a joke of a franchise for about a decade. Then, enter Jason Richardson, Baron Davis, Stephen Jackson, and Monta Ellis, to name a few. Oracle Arena in San Francisco started to gain its electricity that it’s now known for with the showmanship of Steph Curry. But that all really started when the Warriors welcomed the Mavericks in 2007 to host its first playoff game in 13 years. The team has an awesome video of this posted to its YouTube channel. Richardson’s 8 seed in the west stunned Dirk Nowitzki’s 1 seeded Mavericks in a series win. This wasn’t the only success that father Richardson saw in tournament play. In 2001, he led his Spartans team in scoring (14 per game) and advanced to the Final Four as a sophomore. For Sparty Nation, fans are hoping it’s like father, like son.
Dylan Harper Running Out of Time to Show NBA Pedigree with Rutgers
The son of five-time NBA champion Ron Harper, Dylan has quickly emerged as one of the nation’s top freshmen. Standing at 6’6″, Dylan Harper has showcased versatility and scoring prowess, notably dropping a career-high 36 points in an overtime victory against Notre Dame. Despite Harper’s immense talent and the presence of another potential NBA lottery pick on the roster, Rutgers has struggled mightily in the competitive Big Ten. Their inconsistent play and inability to close out critical games have left their NCAA tournament hopes in serious jeopardy. If Rutgers can rally and make the field, Harper’s dynamic game could still make him a player to watch during March Madness.
However, Rutgers has struggled this season. Despite having two top NBA prospects (including possible top overall pick Ace Bailey), the Scarlett Knights are flirting with a .500 season as they plow through a Big 10 conference schedule.
DJ Wagner (Arkansas): The grandson of NBA great Milt Wagner and son of Dajuan Wagner, DJ has continued his family’s basketball legacy at Arkansas under coach Rick Pitino. Known for his scoring ability and smooth ball-handling, Wagner has stepped into a leadership role for the Razorbacks. Though skeptics may question whether his family legacy or his coach’s reputation carries more weight, DJ’s talent is undeniable. If Arkansas makes the tournament, Wagner’s ability to score in isolation and create opportunities for teammates could make him an unexpected star.
Mason Miller (Creighton): As the son of sharpshooting NBA champion Mike Miller, Mason has basketball excellence in his DNA. Now a key contributor for the Creighton Bluejays, Mason showcases his versatility as a forward with a knack for stretching the floor and playing solid defense. Mike Miller, known for his clutch three-point shooting and championship pedigree with the Miami Heat, has clearly passed on his basketball instincts. Mason’s development under Coach Greg McDermott’s system has been instrumental in Creighton’s rise as a Big East contender. With his ability to hit timely shots and provide defensive grit, Mason will play a vital role in the Bluejays’ pursuit of a deep NCAA Tournament run.
Ryan Mutombo (Georgia Tech): Son of the late Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo, Ryan transferred to Georgia Tech after three seasons at Georgetown. Standing at 7’2″, he brings a strong defensive presence and shot-blocking ability reminiscent of his father’s legendary career. As he integrates into the Yellow Jackets’ system, his impact on both ends of the floor could be pivotal in their quest for a tournament berth.
Jamal Mashburn Jr. (Temple): Yes, Jamal Mashburn Jr. is keeping the dream alive. He continues pursuing a professional basketball path, now with the Temple Owls after two previous stops most notably with the New Mexico Lobos. He even nabbed conference “Player of the Week” honors in early February.
Legacy vs. Reality: The Challenge of Second-Generation Players
Having an NBA legend as a father brings undeniable perks—access to elite coaching, resources, and exposure—but it also comes with immense pressure. For these players, every game is not only a test of their skills but also a constant comparison to their family legacy. While some rise to the occasion, others find the expectations overwhelming. This year’s crop may not feature a runaway star, but that doesn’t mean their stories are any less compelling.
What to Watch for in March
As the tournament approaches, keep an eye on these players. Augustas Marčiulionis’ leadership and playmaking might propel Saint Mary’s to upset higher-seeded teams. Dylan Harper’s scoring ability could be the catalyst for Rutgers, but only if the team finds a way to salvage their season. DJ Wagner’s high ceiling might be realized as Arkansas is challenged to brush off a rough start to SEC play. These players embody the unpredictability and excitement that make March Madness a must-watch event.
Conclusion
The sons of NBA players in Division I basketball this year may not be rewriting the record books, but their stories are a testament to basketball’s rich traditions and the powerful connections between generations. Whether they deliver game-changing performances or simply keep their teams competitive, these players remind us that legacy alone doesn’t guarantee success—it’s earned, one possession at a time. Keep an eye on this group during March Madness; their breakout moments might just make the tournament even more unforgettable.
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Kansas City Chiefs and Kansas Jayhawks Championship Parlay Ticket for Sale
If you can envision the parade route in front of Union Station painted red in February before Mass Street gets swarmed with Crimson and Blue in March (and April), then this future is for you.
At the sports-books, a ticket teaming up two Hall of Fame coaches in Andy Reid and Bill Self will currently go for about 100-1. You can pay a small premium and buy it here through PropSwap today before the Chiefs have their way with the Houston Texans.
Detroit Lions and Michigan Wolverines Championship Parlay Ticket for Sale
Is Detroit a Michigan Wolverine town or a Michigan State Spartans city? The good news for state residents is that both of their basketball teams are currently slated to make the 2025 NCAA Tournament. And as intimidating as Lions Head Coach Dan Campbell is on the sidelines, two 7-footers for the Wolverines are looking even more intimidating as Big 10 play rolls on.
Whether you’re looking to snag a great price on a college basketball future, or just cramming before the 2025 NCAA Basketball tournament, this list will track the best 5 values.
Of course, this is a subjective opinion.
Best Long-shot odds for the 2024-2025 College Basketball Season
This website and its author Matty D. focuses on what is seen on TV (and occasionally in person), as compared to analytics and top 25 lists.
Odds for the 2024-2025 college basketball season started out with a log jam of great teams in the 9-1 to 16-1 territory. Auburn started the year around 16-1 or 20-1 to win it all, before climbing to the top one or two teams in the national rankings.
Both Auburn and Duke have spent weeks are the overwhelming favorites for odds to win it all, while a pack of second tier teams were separated starting around the 10-1, 12-1 territory afterwards. Some Sportsbooks have even listed a combined ticket of either Duke or Auburn to win a championship in the +120 moneyline territory.
Look for links to buy some futures tickets from ourPropSwap page in the article below! Look for the stock up and the green check mark emojis. 📈✅
A stack of blue bloods cluttered at the top of the futures board to start the season. UCONN’s stock will drop, who will become the new odds-on favorite to win it all? #Duke, #KUBball, Bama, Houston literally vying for this ephemeral spot as we speak… pic.twitter.com/HC6UZlq4QI
With the fluctuating of top teams oscillating somewhere in this 10-1 or 20-1 territory, below are my favorite long-shot odds to win the title at 55-1 or longer. For your information, many teams are vacillating in the 20-1 to 50-1 price range. If you like the teams in that territory, this isn’t your article. But it’s still worth watching. For example, on February 8th Illinois had shifted from a 30-1 odds team to a 55-1 team to win it all. If you love the KU Jayhawks, it’s worth noting they’ve fluctuated between 30-1 and 35-1 quite routinely. If you love them so much, you should invest in that 35-1 number after their next loss. Following a win, they’ve been 25-1 or 30-1 on popular sites such as DraftKings and FanDuel Sportsbook.
BYU Odds to Win a Men’s College Basketball Championship, Link to Buy a Ticket
5. Continuity is an important ingredient in this exercise. Most times, when a new coach comes into a program, all players flee to find other opportunities. Not with BYU. Although new head coach Kevin Young has come in, a small core of important contributors have remained with the Cougars. And they’ve now been surrounded with NBA talent such as Russian Egor Demin, who is currently projected as the 18th overall pick in an mock draft on NBA.com. This team is hitting its stride with road wins in the late stages of the regular season against top tier teams such as Iowa State and Arizona. They demolished Kansas. And they get a huge volume of 3pt shots, which can overcome most deficits when they get down (its inevitable if you’re going to play multiple tournament games). This team started February in the 125-1 range, but look at them now!
Drake Bulldogs Perhaps America’s Best Underdogs at 500-1!
4. Two words. Bennett Stirtz. He is the smoothest point guard in America that no one is talking about. Drake has a wealth of Kansas City area kids and transfers from Northwestern Missouri State, where the new head coach has had championship success.
Northwest Missouri State’s championship pedigree under Ben McCollum is a blueprint for success at the Division I level. His four national titles and 81.2% career win rate showcase his ability to build and sustain an elite program. McCollum’s proven ability to recruit, develop, and maximize talent will translate well as he steps onto a larger stage. His history of dominating conference play and guiding players to national accolades suggests that his approach—rooted in discipline, strategy, and player development—can immediately impact a Division I program. Expect his winning mentality to create a competitive and successful culture at the next level.
Yale Basketball Intriguing Odds at 1,000-1 to win it all
3. With the exception of center Danny Wolf who transferred to Michigan, this Ivy League power is an intelligent bet to make at 1,000 – 1 because of its returning talent and wisdom. This Yale squad upset Auburn last year in the 13 vs. 4 seed matchup. And with exception to its point guards, this is the same Auburn team that is currently ranked a heavy overall favorite to win the 2025 championship. Let’s get crazy and picture a scenario where, at 250-1 odds, Yale makes the Final Four and squares for a rematch with Auburn in 2025!
Ball handling is at a premium during the NCAA Tournament. And Yale has a healthy contingency of trusted guards. Senior starters Bez Mbeng and John Poulakidas return to the 2025 roster with hopes to advance its Cinderella aspirations seen during 2024 March Madness. If you remember, Poulakidas has some dramatic shot making in the closing moments of that 2024 contest to march the Bulldogs back from a double-digit deficit in the fourth quarter (equivalent).
John Poulakidas with a serious game face as he pulls off a career high in the 2024 tourney
As for this current iteration of the Yale Bulldogs in the 2024-2025 regular season, there’s an argument to be made that they’re a better team than last year. Yale basketball has been on a tear, riding a nine-game winning streak to a 16-6 record (9-0 in Ivy League play). The Bulldogs have dominated conference opponents with decisive wins over Harvard, Princeton, and Penn while also pulling out a nail-biting 72-71 victory over Pennsylvania. Their early-season struggles featured close losses to major conference opponents such as Minnesota (59-56) and UTEP (75-74), along with a high-scoring overtime defeat to Delaware (100-94), showcasing their ability to compete in tight matchups. Throughout the season, a core group of players has consistently led the way—John Poulakidas has been the team’s primary scorer, with standout performances like a 32-point outing against Cornell, while Danny Townsend and Yassine Gharram have been dominant on the glass. Bez Mbeng has been a steady facilitator, regularly leading in assists, including a 12-assist showing against Cornell. With their current momentum, Yale has established itself as the team to beat in the Ivy League.
St. Mary’s Odds to Win 2025 NCAA Basketball Championship
2. The St. Mary’s Gaels get some respect here as a top choice for futures values. The Gaels roster combines some long-time players with tournament experience, but a splash of new generation players like combo guard Mikey Lewis. He and veteran point guard Augustus Marciulionis make for a formidable pairing in the backcourt. (Yes, Marciulonis is one of many sons of NBA players playing in college basketball right now. See the list here).
The Gaels got out to a great start this season, winning 9 of its first 10 games. As always, its tournament resume will be filtered in large part by whether it can beat Gonzaga. The play the Zags twice in February and won both matchups! They wrapped up the WCC regular season title on February 22nd, a stunning accomplishment for a team that’s barely ever ranked in the AP Top 25 (this season, at least).
At the time of this article being published, the Gaels futures odds had a large variability. On FanDuel, odds to make a Final Four were 45-1. On DraftKings, the same odds were 25-1.
St. Mary’s beat Gonzaga in an uncharacteristically low shooting percentage (including free throws) game for both teams to begin February, when St. Mary’s championship hopes stuck around 80-1.
Texas A&M Odds to Win 2025 NCAA Basketball Championship
Texas A&M has been on this list since it began the 2024-205 campaign at 80-1, so it will remain grandfathered on this “best of” list despite its price surging to around 30-1 while it sticks in the AP top 10 in mid-February.
The Aggies return 82% of their scoring from the 2023-2024 campaign and surge here to the best overall value to win the tournament. Led by point guard Wade Taylor IV, the Aggies have the depth, the coach, and the culture with its commitment to defense. Their roster is an embarrassment of riches when it comes to 6-7 to 6-9 athletes with a multi-faceted talents. However, they don’t really play many at 6-10 or taller.
Texas A&M started the season at 75-1 or 80-1 to win a title, based on where you’ve seen their odds.
If for some reason you don’t like Texas A&M, but you’re looking for a similarly valued team from the stacked SEC, consider the Missouri Tigers.
CUT LINE 2025:
“Also Receiving Votes” for College Basketball Best Future Value Teams for 2025
Michigan Wolverines Import Cinderella Ingredients to Make for an NCAAB Sleeper
Grand Canyon Odds to Win 2025 NCAA Basketball Championship
Removed from this List after losing to CA Baptist
We are still not over the pummeling that Grand Canyon suffered to California Baptist. I’ve never seen that program play, but it’s hard to put my support beyond the Antelopes after that ass beating. Here’s what was previously written: At 250-1 to win a title on DraftKings around the holidays, the Antelopes were be an intriguing lottery ticket to receive in the Christmas stocking. A blowout loss to California Baptist in early February gave you pause as it put the Antelopes behind Utah Valley in the conference standings. Still, this conference and this team is worth a pick as part of this list.
Grand Canyon has a lot of ingredients you look for when searching for a high ceiling stock. First, they have a winnable conference. You wouldn’t expect them to get an at-large, although it’s actually possible with this team. However, they should be able to handle in-conference competition such as Southern Utah and Abilene Christian in the WAC conference standings. Secondly, they have tournament experience. In fact, they logged a win against another team on this list.
As February began, CBS Sports bracketologist Jerry Palm had them slated as a 13 seed due to play Memphis. That would be the type of winnable game that could propel the antelope into a position as the hunter and not the prey.
Grand Canyon was a 12 seed last year when it got a win. Last but not least, they have a star player who can go into takeover mode. Tyon Grant-Foster averages over 16 points per game (and dropped 22 in last year’s tournament win).
Michigan Basketball Cut from the Top Underdog List
Michigan was cut from this top 5 list after its performance became shaky in late February, but it’s ticket price become more costly. The Wolverines struggled to beat Rutgers at home and then got dominated by Illinois.
This blog had previously published how, “We can’t ignore how Michigan imported Dusty May, the 2023-2024 darling of the tournament leading his Florida Atlantic Owls to the Final 4. Also, they’ve added a 7-footer from that squad plus an additional 7-footer from another Cinderella Yale program.”
Arizona State Odds to Win 2025 NCAA Basketball Championship
Arizona State was pulled from this list after getting into its conference schedule and playing typical unpredictable undisciplined basketball for a Bobby Hurley coached team (I know, counterintuitive, you would think). Previous comments: “This team might be a riskier pick than the aforementioned team with an equal price. The Sun Devils odds could be more volatile than coach Bobby Hurley’s behavior on the sidelines. That’s why they call it gambling. As a newcomer to the Big 12, you’ll have to monitor this team’s regular season performance. The Sun Devils have four guards averaging 9 points or more (three in double digits). As its name would suggest, this team can get hot (or cold) with devilish volatility.
The Sun Devils were 250-1 on DraftKings on December 14, 2024 to win it all.”
Penn State Odds to Win 2025 NCAA Basketball Championship
Penn State got off to a hot start with a court-storming home win against Purdue, but as we continue to watch the Big 10 this season, it seems to be a down year for the overinflated league. Previously wrote: “The Big 10 is going to be a tough conference to predict with traditional powers such as Purdue and Ohio State seemingly in a bit of a program transition. Purdue suffered some upsets early in the season as it adjusts to life without Zack Edey. And Ohio State is a mess. In the meantime, a team like Penn State is jumping off the page with its futures odds sitting at 100-1 in mid-December.”
College Basketball Eye Test 