USC Trojans (5-2) vs. Gonzaga Bulldogs (5-1)
USC Trojans vs. Gonzaga Bulldogs 12/2/23: As the NCAA Men’s Basketball season heats up, an exciting matchup between USC Trojans and Gonzaga Bulldogs promises to be one of the highlights in today’s top NCAAB picks. Both teams boast impressive records – 5-2 for USC and 5-1 for Gonzaga respectively – which make this match-up one of the must-watch contests of 2023. It will take place at MGM Grand Garden Arena, set for broadcast live by ESPN at 10:00 PM ET for maximum basketball fanaticism!
The Trojans, off to an impressive start this season, present a formidable challenge to their opponents. Their offense stands out with an average 79.3 point total per game due to an efficient shooting rate of 46.6% field goal and 38.5% three-point success. Their defense also stands out with 37.4 rebounds per game and 6.4 steals; yet an area for improvement could be in turnover management as USC averages 13.6 turnovers per contest; something which could prove decisive come this matchup.
Gonzaga Bulldogs come into this matchup boasting an even stronger offensive record, scoring an average of 83 points per game with 49.6% field goal efficiency and boasting 44.2 average per game rebounding ability that helps maintain possession control. Their three-point field goal percentage of 30.9% may provide Trojans an opening; free throw percentage being at 66.7% could give Trojans an opportunity for offense.
USC Trojans vs. Gonzaga Bulldogs 12/2/23 Game Info
| When: | Saturday, December 2, 2023, at 10:00 PM ET |
| Where: | MGM Grand Garden Arena |
| TV: | ESPN |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Boogie Ellis (Guard) vs. Anton Watson (Forward)
Boogie Ellis, the Trojans’ guard, has been an incredible surprise this season. Averaging 21.5 points per game from beyond the arc (with an astounding 48% success rate), Ellis is an effective threat. Additionally, his all-around game includes 4 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game which make him a versatile threat on the court; however his 1.5 turnovers per game could prove costly against Gonzaga who excel at capitalizing on such errors.
Anton Watson, Gonzaga’s forward, brings an unique yet equally effective skill set. His average of 15.7 points and 8.8 rebounds per game demonstrates his dominance inside the paint, while his 65.1% field goal accuracy proves his efficiency; his free throw and three-point percentages may provide USC some advantage; nonetheless his role dictating pace and controlling rebounding will be essential for Gonzaga.
Ellis and Watson will engage in an intriguing court match-up that showcases two very distinct styles. Ellis will use her perimeter play and scoring ability against Watson’s inside dominance and rebounding prowess; these performances could well determine both teams’ pace and strategies for victory or defeat.
NCAAB Odds/Point Spread: Gonzaga Bulldogs -167, Total Odds: 150.5
Current betting odds favor Gonzaga Bulldogs with moneyline odds at -167 and spread of -3.5. The total for the game has been set at 150.5; reflecting its expected high-scoring nature. Bettors considering these odds should keep in mind Gonzaga’s offensive power while considering USC’s capacity for response as part of a balanced scoreline – making both spread and total particularly intriguing.
USC Trojans Betting Trends
The Trojans have displayed remarkable resilience and strategic acumen throughout their games, evidenced by their 5-2 record against opponents from their conference (West Coast Conference: 14-2 SU record). Their betting trends show they excel against teams in that conference; however, with 13 out of their last 20 home Saturday games having totals go UNDER suggesting lower scoring affairs than may be implied by odds.
Gonzaga Bulldogs Betting Trends
The Bulldogs boast an ambiguous record against the spread (ATS), going 3-6 in their last 9 games. Yet their impressive 17-2 mark against Pac-12 teams and 4 of 5 Saturday games going over indicates their ability to secure wins. In terms of total betting options, their total going OVER in each of those 4 contests suggests high scoring games which might offer opportunities.
USC Trojans vs. Gonzaga Bulldogs 12/2/23 Betting Picks
Given the analysis and trends, this game promises to be closely contested. Gonzaga’s offensive prowess and USC’s balanced approach set the stage for an entertaining contest; my final recommendation leans toward Gonzaga due to their excellent record against Pac-12 teams and overall scoring ability.
Prop bets and over/under wagers seem wisest on Saturday games when Gonzaga typically outperforms USC in terms of covering their spread, but bettors seeking exclusive premium picks should consider Gonzaga’s potential to do just that while being wary not to underestimate USC’s resilience.
Free Pick and Prediction: Gonzaga Bulldogs 78, USC Trojans 73