Houston Cougars (23-3) vs. Baylor Bears (19-7)
On Saturday, Houston Cougars take on Baylor Bears for an explosive NCAA Men’s Basketball matchup that should excite basketball enthusiasts and bettors alike. As we dive into expert NCAAB picks for this contest, the focus will not only be on win/loss standings but also detailed statistics and performance trends that could shape the outcome of this high-stakes encounter.
The Cougars come into this matchup with a 23-3 record, scoring nearly 74 points per game and allowing just 61.5. They are shooting 43.4% from the field and 34.4% from three as a team, while forcing nearly 11 turnovers per contest. However, Houston has struggled to cover spreads on the road at just 2-7 ATS this season. The over has hit in 4 of their last 5 overall. Guards L.J. Cryer and Ja’Kobe Walter pace a Houston offense that will need to be firing on all cylinders to keep up with Baylor’s high-octane attack.
The 19-7 Bears average a whopping 82.6 points per game on 49.3% shooting from the field and 39.6% from beyond the arc. They outrebound opponents by nearly 10 boards per game while dishing out 15.4 assists. Baylor has won 4 of its last 5 with the only loss coming to #1 Kansas in overtime. They cover well at home at 6-4 ATS and have gone over the total in 7 of their last 14 games in Waco. Forwards Jonathan Tchamwa Tchatchoua and Flo Thamba anchor a defense that allows under 67 points per contest. But they’ll face a tough test against a versatile Houston squad. This game could come down to which defense blinks first.
Houston Cougars vs. Baylor Bears Game Info
| When: | Saturday, February 24, 2024 at 12:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Foster Pavillion |
| TV: | CBS |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
L.J. Cryer (Guard) vs. Ja’Kobe Walter (Guard)
Houston guard L.J. Cryer is averaging 15 points, 2.4 rebounds and 1.9 assists per game while shooting 40% from the field and 37.8% from three. The junior is a volume scorer and scorer capable of catching fire. However, he has struggled with turnovers at times. His ability to facilitate and avoid mistakes will be key against Baylor’s athletic defense.
Baylor guard Ja’Kobe Walter averages 14.4 points, 4.5 rebounds, 1.6 assists and 1.2 steals while shooting 38.5% from the field. The sophomore locked down National Player of the Year Oscar Tshiebwe earlier this season. His on-ball defense could limit Cryer’s production. But Walter will need to contribute more on offense to match Houston’s firepower.
This matchup features two talented guards at different stages of their careers. If Cryer avoids turnovers and Walter contains him on defense, it could swing the game in Baylor’s favor. But if Cryer gets hot, Walter will have his hands full trying to keep pace. This individual battle could decide the game.
NCAAB Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds and point spreads remain undefined, reflecting the closely matched nature of this contest. Bettors should monitor these figures as they become available, considering the teams’ contrasting strengths and recent trends.
Houston Cougars Betting Trends
Houston is 1-3 against the spread in their last 5 and 2-7 ATS on the road this season. However, the over has hit in 4 straight entering this matchup. The Cougars have the defense to stymy opponents but will need their offense to show up after recent struggles versus the number away from home.
Baylor Bears Betting Trends
Baylor is 3-1 against the spread in their last 5 contests and 6-4 at home. The over has gone just 2 of 5 recently but it has hit in 7 of the Bears’ last 14 in Waco. Their ability to put points on the board quickly gives them a shot to push this total over 134.
Houston Cougars vs. Baylor Bears 2/24/24 Betting Picks
Considering the statistical insights and betting trends, this game promises to be tightly contested. The Cougars’ defensive tenacity will clash with the Bears’ offensive firepower in a matchup that could go either way. However, Baylor’s scoring depth and efficiency, combined with their proven track record against the spread in road games, give them a slight edge in this encounter.
Given the teams’ recent performances and strategic dynamics, a prediction leans towards a high-scoring affair, with Baylor potentially securing a narrow victory. Bettors should consider the over on total points and look towards Baylor to cover, especially if the spread favors Houston by a slim margin. Always ensure to use the best bookie software for the latest odds and betting options.
Free Pick and Prediction: Baylor Bears 78, Houston Cougars 74
