Washington State Cougars (20-6) vs. Arizona Wildcats (20-5)
Washington State Cougars vs. Arizona Wildcats 2/22/24 – As the NCAA Men’s Basketball season heats up, an intriguing clash awaits between Washington State Cougars and Arizona Wildcats on Thursday at McKale Memorial Center at 11:00 PM ET under the lights – airing live on FS1. Fans and bettors alike will eagerly anticipate this matchup which has both teams showing extraordinary form. Fans and bettors alike look for insights and free NCAAB analysis today into this contest of great importance to them both!
The Cougars have been excellent on offense, averaging 75.5 points per game. They are an efficient shooting team, with a 47.5% field goal percentage. However, their 69.9% free throw shooting could be a weakness. Defensively, Washington State forces turnovers, averaging 5.4 steals per game. They will need to focus on defending the 3-point line against Arizona’s dangerous shooters.
The Wildcats are one of the highest scoring teams in the country, putting up 90.7 points per contest. They excel in multiple offensive categories, including field goal percentage, 3-point shooting, and free throw shooting. Arizona crashes the boards well, averaging 13.8 offensive rebounds. Defensively, they force mistakes, notching 8.7 steals per game. Slowing down Washington State’s efficient offense will be key.
Washington State Cougars vs. Arizona Wildcats 2/22/24 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)
In 26 games played this season, Myles Rice is averaging 32.6 minutes, 15.9 points, 3 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 1.7 steals and 0.2 blocks per game. The Cougars guard is shooting 45.7% from the field, 81% from the free throw line, and 33% from 3-point range while committing 2.5 turnovers per contest. Rice’s strengths lie in his efficient scoring and distribution abilities. However, his outside shooting percentage could improve.
Caleb Love has played 25 games for Arizona, averaging 32.1 minutes, 18.8 points, 5 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 1.2 steals and 0.4 blocks. He is shooting 43.4% from the field, 86.4% from the charity stripe, and 35.2% from beyond the arc. Love has been taking good care of the ball as well, turning it over just 1.8 times per game. His strengths are volume scoring, rebounding and free throw accuracy. Forcing Love into contested looks could lower his percentages.
This head-to-head matchup will be determined by which star guard can maximize their strengths while minimizing turnovers. Rice will look to feed teammates and attack the basket efficiently. Love wants to be overwhelmed with shot creation skills and multiple scoring avenues. Their contrasting styles should provide an intriguing matchup on Thursday night.
NCAAB Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds for this game are yet to be determined, but given the teams’ performances, it’s expected to be closely contested. Bettors should keep an eye on the spread and moneyline as they become available, considering both teams’ recent form and head-to-head statistics.
Washington State Cougars Betting Trends
The Cougars are 5-0 in their last 5 games straight up. They have covered the spread in 4 of their previous 5 contests. On the road, Washington State is 5-4 against the number this season. The over has hit in just 2 of the Cougars’ last 5 matchups. For the year, 9 of their 16 games at home have gone over the projected total.
Arizona Wildcats Betting Trends
Over their last 5 contests, the Wildcats own a perfect 5-0 straight up record. Arizona has covered the spread in 4 of those games. At home, they hold a 5-4 advantage against the number in 2023-2024. The over has cashed in 3 of the Wildcats’ previous 5 matchups. In 16 home games this campaign, 6 have gone over the posted total.
Washington State Cougars vs. Arizona Wildcats 2/22/24 Betting Picks
Based on analysis and betting trends, this game promises to be closely contested battle. Both teams have demonstrated their ability to triumph, making this contest one of the season’s highlights.
Given their respective strengths, it may be best to opt for the Arizona Wildcats due to their home advantage and offensive firepower, but don’t underestimate Washington State Cougars’ defensive tenacity – bettors may find value in prop bets related to key player performances, especially considering Rice and Love may have. Over/under bets might also prove appealing given these teams’ offensive capabilities and defensive strategies respectively.
Leading handicapper tips suggest keeping an eye on the evolving odds and any late-breaking team news, which could significantly impact betting strategies.
Free Pick and Prediction: Arizona Wildcats 82, Washington State Cougars 76.