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The UConn Huskies are a big favorite to return to the national championship game, but Aari McDonald of the Arizona Wildcats might be the best player in the NCAA Tournament so far. They’re set to do battle at 9:30 p.m. this evening, so let’s take a look at how the public is betting Arizona vs. UConn.
Against The Spread
Arizona: +13.5 (11% of handle, 24% of bets)
UConn: -13.5 (89% of handle, 76% of bets)
Is the public right?
Anytime you’re dealing with the Huskies this late in the NCAA’s, there’s some level of spread tax as with other public teams such as the Packers, Cowboys or Lakers. The Blue-Haired Nation comes hard for their ladies, especially this year with Paige Bueckers separating herself as the best freshman in Storrs since Breanna Stewart.
Aari McDonald has been lights out in this tournament for the Wildcats, but what UConn does better than anyone is take away the one thing you want to do. Look for plenty of ball screen help coming from different angles, and Christyn Williams to do her best to make McDonald more of a playmaker.
UConn wins tonight, but McDonald alone can be great enough to keep it within 13. We’re staying away here.
Moneyline
Arizona: +600 (16% of handle, 22% of bets)
UConn: -1150 (84% of handle, 78% of bets)
Is the public right?
If you want to increase your bankroll by about 8%, this is a pretty good spot. UConn already beat the other best team in this tournament in Baylor, and Arizona has ridden quite the hot streak to even be in this position. Geno Auriemma will be playing for his 12th national title on Sunday.
Point Total
Over: 128.5 (82% of handle, 72% of bets)
Under: 128.5 (18% of handle, 28% of bets)
Is the public right?
We’ll give the public this one. McDonald is going to get buckets, and if she doesn’t the live ball turnovers will give the Huskies plenty of room to run and score. There’s just too many ways this number gets big for it to be under 130.
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