Connecticut Huskies (9-1) vs. Gonzaga Bulldogs (8-2)
Connecticut Huskies vs. Gonzaga Bulldogs 12/15/23 – A highly anticipated NCAA Men’s Basketball game is set for December 15, 2023, featuring the formidable Connecticut Huskies with an impressive 9-1 record going head-to-head against the strong Gonzaga Bulldogs, standing at 8-2. This game, scheduled to be held at Climate Pledge Arena and broadcast on ESP2, is not just a showcase of two of the nation’s top college basketball teams but also a focal point for NCAAB no-cost game day tips, drawing attention from fans and bettors alike.
The Connecticut Huskies have shown tremendous promise this season, scoring an average of 87.4 points per game on 50.9% field goal percentage and 33.6% 3-point shooting percentage. Defensively they are strong too averaging 6.6 steals and 5.9 blocks per game while their turnover rate per game of 9.8 could potentially be exploited by opponents with proper strategy.
Gonzaga Bulldogs have also been impressive, posting an 8-2 record and an average of 84.9 points per game with a 49.9% field goal percentage and 43.9 rebounds per game on average. Furthermore, their balanced attack can be seen through their assists per game average; however their slightly higher turnover rate of 12.2 and lower 3-point shooting percentage (33.2%) indicate where Huskies might gain an edge.
Connecticut Huskies vs. Gonzaga Bulldogs Game Info
| When: | Friday, December 15, 2023, at 10:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Climate Pledge Arena |
| TV: | ESP2 |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Tristen Newton (Guard) vs. Graham Ike (Forward)
Tristen Newton is the engine behind UConn’s efficient offense. The senior guard averages 17 points, 7.2 rebounds and 6.1 assists while shooting 47.2% from the field. Newton excels at getting to the rim and finishing through contact. He also moves well without the ball to get open looks from three. While prone to some inefficient shooting nights, Newton typically bounces back thanks to his playmaking. He will look to push the pace and create easy looks against Gonzaga’s defense.
Graham Ike continues his ascension into one of the best big men in the country. The junior forward averages 14.2 points and 7.9 rebounds on extremely efficient 58.8% shooting. At 6’9″ 245 lbs, Ike uses his wide frame and strength to carve out position around the rim. He has shown improved touch on his jump hook and turnaround jumper as well. Ike will challenge the Huskies with his physicality on the glass and ability to finish through contact.
This matchup features two of the best at their respective positions. Newton wants to play uptempo and could exploit Ike in transition. But the Gonzaga big man won’t make it easy, using his size well in the half court. Foul trouble could swing this battle and the game’s outcome.
NCAAB Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
With the betting odds still to be announced, the early analysis suggests a tightly contested game. However, Connecticut’s overall offensive and defensive statistics might give them a slight edge in the betting markets.
Connecticut Huskies Betting Trends
Connecticut Huskies has an impressive 27-10 (73%) record against the spread (ATS) in their last 37 games. The Huskies also have been solid on the moneyline, going 15-2 straight up in their previous 17 contests. Key trends show Huskies is 9-3 to the over on team totals in their last 12 and 6-10 to the over on full game totals in their past 16.
Gonzaga Bulldogs Betting Trends
The Bulldogs have been money at home, covering in 22 of their last 28 at home. They also have hit the moneyline in those games at an outstanding 79% clip. Bettors have seen a lot of points when Gonzaga plays at home too. The over has hit in 14 of Gonzaga’s last 22 home games. They have also stayed under the 1H total in 13 of those 22 contests.
Connecticut Huskies vs. Gonzaga Bulldogs 12/15/23 Betting Picks
Considering both teams’ strengths and weaknesses, this game is poised to be a close contest. The Huskies’ offensive firepower and defensive solidity give them a slight advantage. However, the Bulldogs’ home-court advantage and rebounding ability should not be underestimated.
In terms of betting picks, while the Huskies seem to be a safer bet for the Moneyline, the Bulldogs could present value in spread betting, particularly considering their strong home game trends. Prop bets on individual player performances, particularly on Newton and Ike, could also be intriguing.
In conclusion, with paid predictions leaning towards a Huskies win, the game could still swing either way, given the quality on both sides.
Free Pick and Prediction: Connecticut Huskies 78, Gonzaga Bulldogs 74