Washington State Cougars (20-6) vs. Arizona Wildcats (20-5)
As the NCAA Men’s Basketball season moves along, an upcoming match between Washington State Cougars and Arizona Wildcats has attracted both fans and bettors alike. Both teams boast impressive 20-win records entering Thursday’s matchup at McKale Memorial Center; it promises an intense competition that should provide fans with plenty of excitement as well as offer those involved in daily NCAAB picks an unparalleled opportunity to evaluate both team’s strengths, weaknesses, and betting trends.
Washington State Cougars have demonstrated incredible consistency this season, boasting a 20-6 overall record and winning their last five outings 5-0 without conceding. Offensively they average 75.5 points per game while posting an efficient 47.5% field goal percentage which speaks volumes about their scoring ability.
Arizona Wildcats’ 20-5 record puts them right up there with their opponents when it comes to winning streaks and overall performance. Their offense stands out, averaging 90.7 points per game – evidence of both their scoring prowess as well as dynamic play style – and statistics such as points per game, rebounds, assists, and steals demonstrate they’re an all-around team who can dominate both ends of the court.
Washington State Cougars vs. Arizona Wildcats Game Info
| When: | Thursday, February 22, 2024, at 11:00 PM ET |
| Where: | McKale Memorial Center |
| TV: | FS1 |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Myles Rice (Guard) vs. Caleb Love (Guard)
Myles Rice has taken on a leading role for the Cougars, increasing his scoring average by over 7 points from last year. Though undersized, Rice uses quickness and craftiness to create space for his jumper. His outside shooting and distribution are key elements for a Washington State team that thrives on moving the ball side-to-side to find open looks. However, Rice has struggled on the defensive end at times when matched up with bigger guards.
A likely All-American selection, Caleb Love is the catalyst behind Arizona’s uptempo attack. Love excels at attacking closeouts and finishing strong at the rim but has also greatly improved his three-point shot, hitting over 35% this season. With the ball in his hands late in games, Love is unafraid to take big shots. Though he has matured as a playmaker, he can still be prone to questionable shot selection and turnovers when forcing the issue.
When these two electric guards match up, the game could ultimately come down to supporting casts making shots and avoiding careless mistakes. Rice’s efficiency guiding Washington State’s offense versus Love’s shot-making could decide this marquee Pac-12 battle.
NCAAB Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
With betting odds and spreads yet to be determined, bettors are closely monitoring updates. The performance trends and head-to-head statistics of both teams will be crucial in setting the odds. Given the offensive prowess of Arizona and the balanced approach of Washington State, the game promises to be tightly contested.
Washington State Cougars Betting Trends
Winners of five straight, Washington State is 4-1 against the spread during that span, covering in every game except a narrow 2-point win over USC. The Cougars’ new commitment to pushing in transition has led to higher scoring games, going over the total in four of their last seven contests.
Arizona Wildcats Betting Trends
Like their opponents, Arizona has covered in four of their previous five games, thanks in large part to Caleb Love’s 27 point per game average during that stretch. The Wildcats’ last two home games have finished under the total, mainly due to blowing out the competition.
Washington State Cougars vs. Arizona Wildcats 2/22/24 Betting Picks
In a game featuring two surging teams and electric playmakers, there’s reason to think this will be a back-and-forth contest that comes down to the final minutes for our best live betting. Washington State has proven they can win on the road, but Arizona’s home dominance and Caleb Love’s brilliance give them the slight edge to ultimately cover at home. Still, Rice should be able to put up points to help the Cougars keep it close. Consider taking Arizona laying the points rather than moneyline value. But for the best value, look to play the over at what looks to be a rapidly rising total.
