Date | Match Up | Rating | Score | Result | Profit | Lead Time | Analysis |
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10-30-18 | Clippers +2.5 v. Thunder | 110-128 | Loss | -115 | 5 h 44 m | Show | |
Oklahoma City Thunder finally got their first win of the season after losing their first four games. The Thunder beat Phoenix at home, 117-110 as 13.5 point favorites. The Thunder have lost four straight vs the spread. The Clippers have won two straight both S/U and ATS and four of their last five S/U and ATS. The Clippers are now 21-10-1 ATS in their last 32 road games. Meanwhile, OKC is just 2-8-1 ATS their last 11 at home. Clippers playing much better right now then the Thunder are. Plus we get a few points with the Clippers here. I'm taking the LA Clippers. |
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10-26-18 | Bucks +1 v. Wolves | 125-95 | Win | 100 | 7 h 51 m | Show | |
The Milwaukee Bucks are to a great start at 4-0 S/U and 2-2 ATS this season. They are averaging 119.5 ppg while allowing 108.5 ppg. They face the Minnesota T'Wolves who are 2-3 both S/U and ATS. The Bucks are led by the "Greek Freek", Giannis Antetokoumpo. GA had a triple-double and 32 points in their win vs the Sixers, 123-108. Giannis now averages a team-high 28.5 ppg. I like the Bucks here today. They are playing great and Giannis is his old "Greek Freak" self. Play the Bucks. |
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10-25-18 | Blazers v. Magic +3.5 | 128-114 | Loss | -110 | 17 h 37 m | Show | |
Portland brings a 2-1 S/U and ATS record into tonight's game at Orland. The Blazers are averaging 124.3 ppg while giving up 117.3 ppg. This will be the Blazers first road game after playing the first three at home. Orlando started the season at home with a pair of games, a win over Miami 104-101 and then a loss to Charlotte, 88-120. They hit the road for the next two, just losing to the Sixers, 115-116 and then an upset win at Boston, 93-90 as 11-point road dogs. The Magic have covered three of their four games this season. The Blazers are 0-4 ATS in their last four road games and 2-5 ATS their last seven overall. The Magic showed they can play anywhere with that road win over Boston and nearly a road win over the Sixers. I'll take the points here at home with Orlando. |
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10-23-18 | Clippers v. Pelicans -6.5 | 109-116 | Win | 100 | 9 h 4 m | Show | |
The Clippers have started the season at 2-1 both S/U and ATS. The Clippers opened the season with a loss at home to Denver, 98-107 and then have two straight on their home court against Oklahoma City and Houston. Gone are star offensive players like Griffin and Paul. Now, LA concentrates on defense as all the All-Stars have departed. While this team won't likely have aspirations of a NBA title, they should be decent. Meanwhile, the Pelicans are undefeated in two games, including covering the spread in both outings. They have also gone crazy scoring, with an average of 140 ppg and 120.5 ppg against. New Orleans beat Houston to start the year 131-112 and followed that with a win over Sacramento, 149-129. The Pelicans are 23-7 ATS their last 30 vs the Western Conference. They are also 19-7 ATS in their last 26 overall. The Pelicans have also covered 15 of the last 20 vs the Clipper in New Orleans. Don't see how LA can contain this high flying Pelicans team tonight. Play New Orleans. |
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10-22-18 | Wizards v. Blazers -4.5 | 125-124 | Loss | -115 | 9 h 38 m | Show | |
Portland is off to a 2-0 start to the season, outscoring their opponents by a 124.5 to 113.5 margin. The Blazers opened with a win over the Spurs, 121-108 and then beat the Lakers at home, 128-119. Washington still looking for its first win of the young season at 0-2 both S/U and ATS. The Wizards opened with a loss at Toronto, 113-117 and then a loss at home to Miami, 112-113. The Wizards are now 1-10 ATS in their last 11 road games and 0-4 ATS overall their last four. Meanwhile, Portland is 21-6-1 ATS their last 28 home games. I like the home team here, play Portland. |
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10-19-18 | Knicks v. Nets -3.5 | 105-107 | Loss | -123 | 6 h 7 m | Show | |
The Knicks bring a 1-0 record into tonight's game at their rival Brooklyn tonight. The Knicks won at home in their opener against the Hawks, 126-107, covering the 4-point line. The Nets lost their opener on Wednesday at Detroit, 100-103, but covered the 6-point line. Good news for the Nets here as Allen Crabbe and Rondae Hollis-Jefferson may both return for this contest. Crabbe set a franchise record with 201 three-pointers last season. Jefferson could also return tonight after missing the preseason. The Knicks scored 72 first-half points in their win against the Hawks. The Knicks started with a 3-guard lineup, led by Tim Hardaway Jr. If the Nets can get these two players back tonight, I like them in this spot. Play Brooklyn. |
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10-16-18 | 76ers v. Celtics -4.5 | 87-105 | Win | 100 | 8 h 17 m | Show | |
The Boston Celtics suffered a lot of injuries last season and still made a very good run into the playoffs. This year, hopes are high for the Celtics who are one of the favorites to win the Eastern Conference. The Celtics came up one game short of the NBA finals last year with a depleted roster. That roster is full and healthy to start this season as Kyrie Irving, Gordon Howard and Daniel Theis all look to rebound from injuries. The Celtics beat the 76ers in last year's semi finals, 4 games to 1. The 76ers had a young team last year that really came into their own. I think this game will be tight, but with the Celtics back at full strength I look for them to cover this five-point spread. Take Boston. |
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06-08-18 | Warriors v. Cavs +4.5 | 108-85 | Loss | -109 | 8 h 7 m | Show | |
The Cavalier were in the same exact position last year, down 0-3 to the Warriors and playing at home. The Cavs have really been in every game until the fourth quarter when Golden State has erupted. Still, I think there is some pride still in these Cavs and Lebron isn't ready to play his last game in a Cavaliers uniform just yet. I look for Cleveland to pull out the win here tonight. Take the Cavs. |
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06-06-18 | Warriors v. Cavs +5 | 110-102 | Loss | -115 | 45 h 27 m | Show | |
Could be but the press coverage on Monday would be far different if game 2 ended after the 3rd quarter. Remember that the Warriors big 3 all had excellent games AND their bench was incredible Livingston 5-5, McGee 6-6, Bell 2-3 and they still only lead by 5 or 6 in the 4th quarter while neither Cleveland Cavaliers starters or bench was very good. If that turns around we could see the Boston series again. I know I have not chalked up another championship yet for Golden State. Take the Cavaliers in game 3. |
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06-03-18 | Cavs +11.5 v. Warriors | 103-122 | Loss | -105 | 26 h 17 m | Show | |
The Cavaliers have to feel cheated after game one. Not only did they miss the free throw that could have won the game, but JR Smith rebounded the ball just a few feet from the rim and not only didn't he put it back up, but he dribbled out the clock. All this much to the dismay of Lebron James who looked shocked at the end of game one. So can the Cavs rebound in game two? Well, I think they can cover the 11 1/2 point spread. Kevin Love returned from his concussion and the Cavs looked very good in game one as Lebron hit 51 points. This series is about emotion and momentum and while Cleveland has the momentum, they may come up short on the emotional side. Still, I like the Cavs here plus the double digits. Take Cleveland. |
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05-31-18 | Cavs +13 v. Warriors | 114-124 | Win | 100 | 35 h 36 m | Show | |
You can tell the long season is taking its toll on the players as they begin to slow down the pace of these games a lot. The Cavaliers trailed at halftime to the Celtics in game seven, but used a big push from Lebron James in the 2nd half to beat Boston and advance to the finals. The Warriors also trailed at the half to the Rockets, down by 11. However, the Warriors also dominated their second half to pull away and take the series from the Rockets. At one point the Rockets missed 27 straight three-point shots. Very disappointing for the team that had the best record in the NBA this season. Kevin Love is still hurting with his concussion for the Cavaliers and is a question whether he will play tonight or not. Still, I don't think the Cavs should be a 12-point dog as the pace of these games has slowed so much. I don't see the Warriors covering this big number tonight. I'm playing the Cavaliers here in game one. |
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05-28-18 | Warriors -5.5 v. Rockets | 101-92 | Win | 100 | 20 h 27 m | Show | |
The Warriors swung momentum to their side with a huge 2nd half in game six, outscoring the Rockets 64-25. The Rockets scored just nine points in the fourth quarter as the Warriors ran away with the game. This, after the Rockets jumped out to a 61-51 first half lead. The Rockets isolation game plan went bust and they had better come up with something new here today. The question is, will G Chris Paul play for the Rockets with his hamstring injury. Right now he's listed as questionable, but even if he plays, I doubt he will be anywhere near 100%. And, without Paul, the Rockets won't be able to stay with this Warriors offense. I look for the defending Champs to take the West here today, even if Paul limps on the court. Play Golden State. |
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05-25-18 | Celtics v. Cavs -6.5 | 99-109 | Win | 100 | 8 h 3 m | Show | |
This series has sure turned into a home court series. Each team has won and covered on their home court. In fact, it hasn't even been close, with the closest margin of victory being in game two at Boston where the Celtics won by seven as a one-point dog. The Celtics have yet to lose on their home court in the playoffs and going well back into the regular season. Now the Cavs are facing elimination on their home court. What to expect? Any thing different? I don't believe so. I look for the Cavs to rebound as they have done in this series and take game six on their home court. Play the Cavaliers. |
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05-24-18 | Warriors +1 v. Rockets | 94-98 | Loss | -110 | 9 h 30 m | Show | |
This series is leveled at two games a piece after Houston pulled the out right upset on the Warriors home floor in game three, 95-92. Now they return to Houston where the Rockets look to take a 3-2 lead on their home court. The Warriors have already won at Houston in game one, 119-106. This series has seen three of the four games go UNDER. The Warriors are now 8-3 ATS in conference final games. You can tell that the long season and playoffs are taking its toll on players. Players are getting tired. But the Warriors are a bounce back team and coming off that loss in game four, I look for them to rebound here and take game five in Houston. Play the Warriors. |
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05-23-18 | Cavs v. Celtics +1 | 83-96 | Win | 100 | 10 h 50 m | Show | |
Boston continues to win at home as they have taken both games at the TD Arena in this series and Cleveland has taken both games on their home court. That makes today's game five even more important to Boston. Today's game is a pick, so we need little more than a win with the Celtics here, something they have done on a regular basis at home. The Celtics are 9-0 S/U and ATS at home in the playoffs. Cleveland is 3-4 S/U on the road in the playoffs. The games in Boston have been lower scoring, with the Cavs scoring less then 95 points in both games. I like the Celtics at home where they have played perfect this post season. They have excellent coaching and don't have to cover any line here. Play BOSTON. |
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05-22-18 | Rockets +9 v. Warriors | 95-92 | Win | 100 | 6 h 24 m | Show | |
Rockets in desperate need of a win to keep from going down 1-3 in this series. The Rockets were blown out in game three at Golden State, 85-126. Houston shot just 39.5% from the field and 32.4% from 3-point, well below their averages. They also let the Warriors hit 52.2% from the field and 40.6 from 3-point. They will have to turn things around tonight and look for a lower scoring game. Two of the first three in this series have gone UNDER with total lines hovering right around 225-226. Houston needs a win, but we only need them to cover the 8 1/2 point dog line. Play the Rockets. |
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05-21-18 | Celtics +7 v. Cavs | 102-111 | Loss | -105 | 9 h 41 m | Show | |
Celtics were never in game three at Cleveland, losing 86-116. The Cavs dominated the game. Boston shot just 39% from the field and 27% from 3-point land. Compare that to the Cavs who show 48.7% from the field and 50% from 3-point. The Cavs look to even the series tonight at two games a piece. I like the points here with Boston. Boston is too well coached to not respond to that game three blasting with an answer. Boston needs to get back to their half court game that worked so well in games one and two. Now that the Celtics got that bad game out of their system, look for them to be in this one at the end. Take the points with the Celtics. |
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05-20-18 | Rockets v. Warriors -7.5 | 85-126 | Win | 100 | 6 h 18 m | Show | |
Warriors took home court advantage after splitting their two games in Houston. Now the Warriors need to hold home court. Houston took game two on their home court after seeing their field goal percentage raise from 45.9 in game one to 51.1 in game two. The Warriors haven't lost on their home court in these playoffs. Game three here today has the Warriors an eight-point home favorite. I like the Warriors here in game three as they rebound from their game two loss. Play the Warriors. |
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05-09-18 | 76ers v. Celtics -1 | 112-114 | Win | 100 | 8 h 4 m | Show | |
Philadelphia staved off elimination with a 103-92 win in game four. Still, no team has come from down 0-3 to win a series. The problem that Boston had in game four was forcing three-point shots late in the clock. They need to regain the three-point shot attempts that won them games one through three. Another key for the Sixers was moving Embiid off of Horford. It put less stress on the Sixer center and also slowed the Boston scoring. However, tonight I'm sticking with the Celtics. There were a much better team at home this season than on the road. Five of their best six offensive games came at the TD Garden. I look for Boston to get the offense back on track tonight and close out this series. Play Boston. |
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05-07-18 | Celtics +6.5 v. 76ers | 92-103 | Loss | -111 | 7 h 56 m | Show | |
The Celtics have taken a commanding 3-0 lead in this series despite being riddled with injuries and playing a much younger, faster Sixers team. I have to believe that Sixers coach Brett Brown could lose his job following his team's horrible performance in these playoffs. He has been outcoached terribly by Celtics HC Brad Stevens. Philadelphia was a 4 1/2 point road favorite in game three and lost 98-101. The Sixers play an up-tempo, fast paced game and they have been taken out of that this round by the Celtics as they have scored 98, 103 and 101. This was a team that has averaged over 111 ppg this season. Considering how the Sixers played in game three, I don't see their coach motivating these young players to rally here tonight. I'm taking the points with the road team here. Play Boston. |
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05-06-18 | Rockets v. Jazz +5.5 | 100-87 | Loss | -105 | 7 h 33 m | Show | |
The Jazz in a must win spot here today or else they face going down 1-3 in their best of seven series with the Rockets. Utah was beat soundly in game three, losing 96-110 at Houston. The Rockets shot lights out from 3-point land, hitting 53.1% of their shots. You can pretty much throw out the stat lines here as I believe that Utah has to put forth a monster effort to stay alive in these playoffs. Utah is at home here and they are getting five points. But also coming back tonight is Guard Ricky Rubio, who has been absent from this series. The return of Rubio and the Jazz facing going down 1-3 is enough for me to be on the home team here. Play Utah. |
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05-05-18 | Raptors v. Cavs -4 | 103-105 | Loss | -106 | 6 h 27 m | Show | |
Cavs look to take a commanding 3-0 lead in this series after taking both games in Toronto to start the series. The Cavs deliver a knockout blow with a win today. James once again led the Cavaliers to a convincing win in game two. Surprisingly, the Raptors are now 0-5 at Quicken Loans Arena. Cleveland wants to finish this series in four games and I think that's the key factor here today. James and Co want the extra rest that a four-game sweep with bring. I look for maximum effort tonight on their home court. Play Cleveland. |
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05-05-18 | Celtics +9.5 v. 76ers | 101-98 | Win | 100 | 3 h 58 m | Show | |
Very big line for the Sixers to be laying here today. Philly blew a big lead in game two as the Celtics came back for the win and a 2-0 lead in this series. Boston was down 22-points in game two but outscored Philly by a 50-20 margin during one 16-minute stretch. The Celtics have had all the injuries and that's why we see this 9-point dog line here today. However, they have great coaching and they have been executing up and down the bench. They seem to be in every game they play and that's why I think this line is just too high today. Sure, the Sixers have the talent and they could run Boston right out of this game. If they can't turn this into a run and shoot contest, they could be in trouble here again on Saturday. I like Boston plus these big points, just because they have the coaching and heart to be in every game. Play Boston. |
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05-04-18 | Rockets v. Jazz +5 | 113-92 | Loss | -110 | 9 h 6 m | Show | |
Hard to pass on the home dog here tonight. The Jazz and Rockets are tied at one game apiece. The Jazz now know what they need to do, duplicate their game two effort. The Jazz beat the Rockets s116-108 on the Houston home floor, shocking the Rockets. The Jazz did this without Ricky Rubio, who has been injured. This series is a very emotional one and right now the momentum and emotions have swung back to the Jazz. It's not often you can get the Jazz at home as a dog, so I'm taking them here. Play Utah. |
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05-04-18 | Warriors v. Pelicans +5 | 100-119 | Win | 100 | 7 h 36 m | Show | |
Another home dog here on Friday as the Pelicans host the Warriors for game three of their series. Golden State held service, winning both games on their home court. So far this series has been just what the Warriors wanted, uptempo track meet. In addition, Stephen Curry also returned, which just added more pressure to the Pelicans. The series moves to Smoothie King Center in New Orleans in really what has become a must-win spot for the Pelicans. This is the game the Pelicans must get, so I'm taking the points here at home with New Orleans. |
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05-03-18 | 76ers v. Celtics +4.5 | 103-108 | Win | 100 | 10 h 54 m | Show | |
Boston leads this best of seven series 1-0 after their win in game one, 117-101. The Celtics are undefeated at home in these playoffs, yet today they find themselves a four-point home dog to the Sixers. The Celtics have also done well at home vs the number, covering 10 of their last 11 games at the TD Garden. Philly has been impressive, going 24-5 S/U in their last 29 games. They had a 17-game win streak snapped by Miami in the first round of the playoffs. I look for this game to be more of a defensive battle as the Sixers look to keep from going down 0-2. The Sixers also pointed to six days off between the first round and second round as why they were sluggish in their game one loss. While I expect a much more competitive game two, I have to take the points at home with a Celtics team that has yet to lose on it's home court. Play Boston. |
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05-02-18 | Jazz +11 v. Rockets | 116-108 | Win | 100 | 8 h 23 m | Show | |
Game two of this best of seven series has the Rockets up one game to none after their 110-96 win. The Utah Jazz have a very young team and it really showed in game one of this series as they were beaten pretty easily by the Rockets, 96-110. But don't give up on this Jazz team just yet. You also have to remember that the Jazz had played their second game in 38 hours so they had to be a bit tired and that's not a good thing against an explosvie offensive team like the Rockets. The Jazz were blow out in the first half of game one, but did win the third and fourth quarters as they tried different matchup schemes. Everything improved for the Jazz in the second half of game one and that's what I'm feeding off of for game two here tonight. I look for the Jazz to bounce back here tonight in game two. Play Utah. |
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04-29-18 | Jazz v. Rockets -11 | Top | 96-110 | Win | 100 | 3 h 9 m | Show |
Second round action begins today as the Utah Jazz take on the Houston Rockets. Utah had to go six games to take care of Oklahoma City and they split against the spread. In their three games at OKC, the Jazz were 1-2 both S/U and ATS. Houston went five games to beat Minnesota in their first round matchup. The Rockets covered the last two in the series and saw their offense finally click with 122 and 119 points. The previous three games saw the Rockets scored 104 points or less. During the regular season the Rockets gave the Jazz all kinds of problems. The Rockets beat the Jazz four times in the regular season and the average margin of victory was 17.5 points. The games played in Houston saw the Rockets win by 27 and 21 points. The Rockets have one of the best sixth men in the NBA in Eric Gordon, who averaged 18 ppg. The Jazz will also be without Ricky Rubio who is out todya with a hamstring injury. I'm taking the Rockets here today as I look for them to make this a blowout win. |
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04-29-18 | Pacers +5.5 v. Cavs | 101-105 | Win | 100 | 12 h 37 m | Show | |
The Indiana Pacers forced a game seven here tonight in Cleveland with the Cavs. The Pacers cruised to a game-six win over the Cavs, 121-87. So far each team has held home court, however, the Pacers have covered four and pushed one of the six games. Unlike the regular season, teams have time to make adjustments from one game to the next against the same opponent. The Pacers adjustment in game six was keeping Lebron James out of the paint and forcing him to shoot from outside, which is just what they did. The Pacers could have already won this series and we have to wonder if a Cavs loss here today is the last we've seen of James in Cleveland. I think Indiana can take this last game, and with that I'm taking the 5 1/2 points with the Pacers. |
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04-28-18 | Pelicans +9 v. Warriors | 101-123 | Loss | -101 | 11 h 49 m | Show | |
The New Orleans Pelicans came without a few games of not even making the playoffs. Their head coach, Alvin Gentry, was likely to be fired and a major overhaul of this team was possibly going to happen. However, a four game sweep of the Portland Trailblazers has the Pelicans in the 2nd round of the playoffs to face the Golden State Warriors. As for the Warriors, they got past the Spurs and were without guard Stephen Curry. The Warriors defense came alive in that series with the Spurs, holding San Antonio to just 96.8 ppg. Davis led the Pelicans with 33 points and 12.3 rebounds per game vs the Blazers. Jrue Holiday really stepped up in the Portland series, averaging 27.8 ppg and pretty much shutting down Damian Lillard of Portland. The Pelicans are the Cinderella team of these playoffs and they can stick with this Warriors team if they get the same play out of Davis and Holiday. Take the points here with the Pelicans. |
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04-28-18 | Bucks +5 v. Celtics | 96-112 | Loss | -110 | 8 h 19 m | Show | |
A decisive game seven here tonight with the Bucks taking on the Celtics from Boston. Boston is a 4 1/2 point favorite tonight over the Bucks. An interesting fact in this series, the team that has shot better from three-point line has won each game. I don't see that changing here in game seven. Both teams have struggled to score at times and the team that can win that three point shooting should win here tonight. Milwaukee is also an excellent transition team, in fact they were sixth in the NHL with 14.6 fast break points per game. The Bucks had 34 transition points vs the Celtics in their game six win. I see those two points as the key to a Bucks win here on Saturday. They need those big transition points and they need to win the three point shooting. I fully expect both those to happen. Take the points with the Bucks. |
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04-27-18 | Thunder +6.5 v. Jazz | 91-96 | Win | 100 | 9 h 12 m | Show | |
The OKC Thunder need tonight's game in order to stay alive in the playoffs. A loss and their season is over. The Thunder stayed alive with a game five win at home over the Jazz last game, 107-99. The Thunder improved their 3-point shooting from 19.2% in game four to 42.9% in game five. Russel Westbrook will need to play a big role tonight for the Thunder to stay alive. I think the line is just too high on the Jazz, as they are laying 6.5 points. I'm taking the points here tonight with the Thunder who can win outright. |
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04-27-18 | Cavs v. Pacers -1 | 87-121 | Win | 100 | 7 h 43 m | Show | |
Indiana came within a three-point shot by LeBron James of possibly being in the spot of eliminating the Cavs. However, James clutch shot as time expired moved the Cavs to a 3-2 lead in the series as they head back to Indiana tonight. The Pacers split their two games at home vs the Cavs, taking game three 92-90 and then losing game four, 100-104. However, a bit of luck and the Pacers could have already eliminated the Cavs in this series. The Pacers aren't done yet as they force a game seven after tonight. Play the Pacers. |
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04-27-18 | Raptors v. Wizards -1.5 | 102-92 | Loss | -105 | 6 h 42 m | Show | |
Washington in a must win spot here tonight as they face elimination. A win and they force a decisive game seven. Washington lost game five, 98-108 and failed to cover. However, at home it's been different for the Wizards, where they are 2-0 both S/U and ATS. The Wizards shot only 19.2% from three-point last game, a huge departure from their 40%+ rating at home the previous two games. Home has been good to the Wizards and I look for them to even the series here tonight. Play Washington. |
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04-24-18 | Bucks v. Celtics -3 | Top | 87-92 | Win | 100 | 17 h 21 m | Show |
This best of seven series tied at two games apiece. Milwaukee had a huge, 20-point lead in game four and while they held on for the win, they didn't cover the six-point line in a 104-102 win. So far each team has held home court as we return to Boston for game five. The Celtics have covered three of the four in the series. Boston needs to improve its defense, as it has allowed the Bucks to shot over 52% from the field each of the last three games and over 43% from the 3-point line. I don't see any reason to ahem, buck the trends I see taking place in this series and that's play the home team. The Celtics can't go back to Milwaukee down 2-3 so look for a Boston win here on Tuesday. Play Boston. |
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04-23-18 | Thunder +5 v. Jazz | 96-113 | Loss | -105 | 13 h 43 m | Show | |
The Oklahoma City Thunder look to even their best of seven series with the Jazz at two games apiece tonight. The Thunder took game one of this series, 116-108, but then lost game two 95-102 and game three, 102-115. This game has the utmost importance to the Thunder tonight. A loss and they go down 3-1, a win and they regain home court and momentum, 2-2. The Thunder need to find a way to get Russell Westbrook back on track. The Jazz's Ricky Rubio has outplayed his counterpart in Westbrook. Westbrook has been vocal in saying he intends to shut Rubio down in game four. This game tonight really comes down to Westbrook. If he can play well and do as he says he will, the Thunder can cover and maybe win outright. I'm taking the Thunder plus the points here tonight. |
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04-22-18 | Warriors -6.5 v. Spurs | Top | 90-103 | Loss | -110 | 6 h 59 m | Show |
When this series started it looked to be one of the more interesting and equally matched ones. However, that hasn't been the case as the Warriors have dominated this series and can eliminate the Spurs today with a win. The Warriors have been without their star guard Stephen Curry, who has been out this series with a knee injury. That looked to be the great equalizer for the Spurs, who play a good defensive game. The Warriors have had little trouble scoring against this Spurs defense, with 113, 116 and 110 points in the first three games. The Spurs were also dealt a big blow before game three when coach Gregg Popvich's wife passed away and the coach had to miss the game. Popovich will not be on the bench today either. To me, that takes the heart out of this Spurs team. They are down 0-3 in the series, they are without their coach, don't see what positives I can place in the Spurs column here today. Play the Warriors. |
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04-22-18 | Celtics +6 v. Bucks | 102-104 | Win | 100 | 3 h 59 m | Show | |
The Boston Celtics look to take a 3-1 lead in their best of seven series with the the Milwaukee Bucks. Boston lost game three at Milwaukee, 92-116. The Celtics saw their hot shooting from three-point stripe drop from over 40% to just 33% and their overall FG percentage dropped to just 40%. Meanwhile, the Bucks ht 57% from the field and 48.5% from three-point stripe. The key to the Celtics win and cover here today is to not get out to the slow start that plagued them in game three, where they were out of it at halftime, trailing 35-58. The good news is that the starters should be well rested as they did not play for most of the late rout against Milwaukee. I like the Celtics to rebound here today and show up, not like they did in game three three. Play Boston. |
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04-21-18 | Blazers v. Pelicans -7 | 123-131 | Win | 100 | 8 h 55 m | Show | |
The New Orleans Pelicans took a commanding three game lead in this best of seven series with the Portland Trailblazers. The Pelicans took game three, 119-102. No team in NBA history has ever come back from an 0-3 deficit and I don't see these Blazers even getting game four here on Saturday. Anthony Davis was dominant again, putting in 28 points and grabbing 11 rebounds. Rajon Rondo chipped-in 16 points and dished-out 11 assist. Portland knows they are done, they needed game three badly and were blown out. Now the Pelicans want to put this series to end so they can get some needed rest. I'm taking the Pelicans here minus the points |
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04-21-18 | 76ers -3 v. Heat | Top | 106-102 | Win | 100 | 5 h 25 m | Show |
No doubt in my mind that the Philadelphia 76ers are the best team in this matchup. We saw the 76ers in game three that we had seen for their 16 game win streak at the end of the regular season where they were blowing out opponents and scoring tons of points. There was a question whether or not Joel Embiid would play in game three and not only did he, but he was the difference in the Sixers win, 128-108. Embiid scored 23 points, grabbed seven rebounds and had four assists in just 30 minutes of play. Embiid had missed the previous three weeks with a concussion suffered and orbital fractures. Sure, the Heat won game two, but it took a perfect game by the Heat and a performance by Dwayne Wade that frankly looked like he had turned back the close 10 years. I can't see that happening again, especially against this young, hungry Sixers team that has Embiid back at center. This is the perfect spot for another blowout win today. Play Philadelphia. |
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04-20-18 | Celtics +5 v. Bucks | 92-116 | Loss | -105 | 9 h 33 m | Show | |
Boston looks to take a commanding 3-0 lead with a win today in game three at Milwaukee. The Celtics took game one 113-107 and then game two in a blowout, 120-106, covering both and going over. The Celtics have done this despite being without star guard Kyrie Irving for the season. The Bucks really haven't played well of late, losing both playoff games and the game before to the Sixers, 95-130. That makes three losses in a row for the Bucks. The Bucks likely were happy with this matchup initially because of Irving being out. Now, the Bucks have learned to be careful for what they wish for. The Celtics have capitalized on Milwaukee turnovers, generating 20% of their scoring on Bucks miscues. I expect a fast start here tonight by the Bucks, but I'm still taking the points with Boston as I believe they weather the initial onslaught and cover this game. Play Boston. |
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04-20-18 | Raptors +1.5 v. Wizards | 103-122 | Loss | -105 | 7 h 2 m | Show | |
Toronto took both home games to start this series 2-0 and now move to Washington for game three. The Raptors exploded for 44 points in the first quarter of Tuesday's game, pretty much sealing the fate of the Wizards for game two. The Wizards might have to replace 6-foot-11 Marcin Gortat here today who has struggled both offensively and on defense. They can go to the smaller 6-foot-8 Scott Brooks. The Wizards were not all that good at home this year either, going just 23-18. I'm not convinced that Washington can make the moves that can beat this very good Toronto team. Play the Raptors in game three. |
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04-19-18 | 76ers v. Heat +2 | Top | 128-108 | Loss | -105 | 7 h 18 m | Show |
The Miami Heat evened their best of seven series with the 76ers by steeling game two in Philly. The Heat played about as perfect a game as they could to get the win. They almost lost it though as a huge lead evaporated to just two points at 98-96 before Dwayne Wade took over and held off the Sixers for the win, 113-103. Wade looked like his younger self, pouring in 28 points and coming up with big plays down the stretch. The Sixers how to get back their big man, Joel Embiid, who is questionable for tonight's game with a concussion. Embiid averages 22.94 ppg and 10.95 rebounds. The Sixers are hoping to recapture the momentum they had at the end of the regular season that saw them win 16 straight games. The loss of Embiid tonight is huge though. The Heat must once again control the pace and keep Philly from going wild scoring points. If Embiid were playing this might be a different play, but without him I'm taking the points at home with Miami. |
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04-17-18 | Pelicans +6.5 v. Blazers | Top | 111-102 | Win | 100 | 21 h 47 m | Show |
The New Orleans Pelicans stole game one of this series from the Blazers, 97-95. Anthony Davis was the leader for the Pelicans, scoring 35 points and grabbing 14 rebounds. Davis controlled the paint for the Pelicans. The Pelicans did see a 19-point lead virtually evaporate when the Blazers pulled to within one point in the final minute of the game. Portland's backcourt of Damian Lillard and C.J McCollum combined for just 13 of 41 field goals. The Pelicans are ready for another win here on Tuesday as they look to go up 2-0 in this series. The Blazers haven't really showed me anything of late and the 6 1/2 point dog here is just too much to pass on. I'm taking the Pelicans plus the 6 1/2 points. |
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04-17-18 | Wizards +6.5 v. Raptors | 119-130 | Loss | -101 | 17 h 12 m | Show | |
The East best team, Toronto had little trouble dispatching Washington in game one of this series, 114-106, covering the 7.5 points line and going over the 213.5 total. The Raptors were on fire from the field, hitting 53.2% from the field and 53.3% from the 3-point stripe. Washington needs to change this game plan if they want a chance to win here on Tuesday. The Wizards need to keep this game lower scoring and not let the Raptors shoot so many 3-pointers. The Wizards also need to find a way to contain Raptors Serge Ibaka. Ibaka had 23-points in game one and the Wizards just don't seem to have an answer for him. When Ibaka scored at least 17 points this season, the Raptors were 16-2. Washington can take solace in the fact that they led at half in game one, showing they can matchup against this Raptors team. NBA stars can take a bit of a backseat in the regular season, but the playoffs have proven that teams rely on their star players. The Wizards have the edge here I believe. If Washington can stop Ibaka, then I look for them to steal game two. Still, I'll take the points here with the Wizards. |
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04-15-18 | Wolves v. Rockets -11 | 101-104 | Loss | -108 | 20 h 24 m | Show | |
The Houston Rockets had the best record in the NBA this season and have home court advantage throughout the playoffs. The Rockets were led by James Harden who averaged 30.4 ppg and 8.8 assists per game. The Rockets had the 2nd highest scoring team in the NBA (112.4 ppg). The Timberwolves had to go down to the last game of the season against the Nuggets for a win and your in or lose and you go home. And of course, the game had to go to OT before the Wolves pulled out the win and the final playoff spot. The Wolves are just 6-16 ATS in their last 22 road games. The Rockets have covered the last four meetings in this series and I look for them to win game one here on Sunday easily over the Wolves. Play Houston. |
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04-14-18 | Pelicans +5.5 v. Blazers | 97-95 | Win | 100 | 21 h 53 m | Show | |
Game one has the Pelicans playing at the Blazers. The Pelicans hope the mid-season trade for Nikola Mirotic will be just the answer that New Orleans will need this postseason. But the main man for the Pelicans is Davis. Davis is the key to New Orleans winning and conversely to Portland winning. If the Blazers can't contain Davis and at the same time hit their three point shots, then New Orleans will have a great shot here. Of course the Pelicans would much rather have DeMarcus Cousins playing, but with his loss that means Davis plays an even bigger role. I believe this matchup is one of the best at matching each teams top 5 vs each other. That means we are likely to see a good defensive series and lower scoring games. With that being said, I'm taking the points here tonight and would be surprised by a New Orleans outright win. Play New Orleans. |
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04-11-18 | Jazz +4 v. Blazers | Top | 93-102 | Loss | -115 | 11 h 50 m | Show |
It's the last day of the NBA regular season and there's still a lot at stake for the NBA Western Conference teams numbers 3 through 9. The third-place Utah Jazz are tied with the Portland Trail Blazers and they just one game ahead of the Pelicans, Spurs and Thunder. There's a lot of room for jockeying of position for the playoffs here and tonight's game between the Jazz and the Trailblazers will determine the third and fourth place seeds. The Trailblazers will finish third and host the first round game if they win tonight versus the Jazz. If they lose to the Jazz then they will play the winner of the Spurs and the Pelicans matchup and that will feature the 4th against the 5th Place teams. I do like the Jazz here tonight mainly because they are on a six-game winning streak and have been very impressive during that stretch. The Jazz are also 15-1 S/U and 12-4 against the spread in their last 16 road games. Getting points is just too much to pass on here tonight. Play the Jazz |
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04-11-18 | Nuggets v. Wolves -3.5 | 106-112 | Win | 100 | 8 h 20 m | Show | |
The biggest game on the NBA schedule for today is the Minnesota Timberwolves against the Denver Nuggets. Both teams tied for the last place Spot in the Western Conference playoffs. The winner of this game moves on and the loser is going home for the summer. The Guggets have won six straight and eight of their last 10, while the Timberwolves have won two straight and six of their last 10. Timberwolves look to get back in the playoffs for the first time since 2004. Wolves Center Karl-Anthony Towns is playing amazing and looks lead the Wolves back to the playoffs. Towns is averaging 21.2 points per game this year with 12.3 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 1.4 block shots per game. As for the Denver Nuggets they've beaten five playoff bound teams in a row that includes the Oklahoma City Thunder, Milwaukee Bucks, Indiana Pacers, Minnesota Timberwolves and the Portland Trail Blazers. A must-win scenario here tonight but a short line on the home team Minnesota Timberwolves and that's what I like most. I'm going to take the Timberwolves minus the three points. |
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04-09-18 | Blazers v. Nuggets -4 | 82-88 | Win | 100 | 10 h 25 m | Show | |
What a crazy finish to the NBA Western Conference race for the playoffs. With just a few games left in the regular season we still have one, two, three, four, five playoff positions up for grabs between 5th Place New Orleans and 9th Place Denver - with only one game separating those five teams. That makes today's game between the 9th place Denver Nuggets and the 3rd Place Portland Trail Blazers even more important for the host club here, as a loss pretty much eliminates the Nuggets from playoff contention. This game doesn't have as much meaning to the Portland Trail Blazers they sit in third-place, one game ahead of Utah and two games ahead of the Pelicans and a group of three teams. While the Trail Blazers would like to hold onto 3rd place, Denver is fighting for their playoff lives. Denver always a tough place to play for teams with the high altitude. The Nuggets have not been very good to betters, however I did have them the other day at the Clippers as a very big play, my NBA TV Game of the Year and they did come through for me. The home team has covered three of the last five in this series and the favorite is 4-0-1 against the spread the last 5 meetings. I like the Nuggets here tonight playing for their playoff lives, take Denver. |
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04-08-18 | Pistons -5.5 v. Grizzlies | 117-130 | Loss | -108 | 6 h 16 m | Show | |
Two NBA teams that look forward to next season and won't play in this year's playoffs are in today's game between the Detroit Pistons and the Memphis Grizzlies. The Grizzlies have had a rough year with a 21 - 58 record, losing four straight and eight of their last 10 games. The Detroit Pistons are going to finish in 9th Place in the East, just a few games back of the playoffs. They have been fairly hot, winning 8 of their last 10 games. The Pistons have also been good to bettors of late, going 9-1 against the spread in their last 10 overall, 5-0 against the spread in their last five Road games, and 5-0 against the spread in their last five verses the Western Conference. Meanwhile, Memphis has struggled, especially against the East, going just 1-6 versus the number the last 7. The road team has had a pretty good advantage in this series going 8-2 ATS last 10 meetings. I like the road team here today, take Detroit. |
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04-07-18 | Nuggets -2 v. Clippers | 134-115 | Win | 100 | 4 h 20 m | Show | |
The Denver Nuggets and the LA Clippers play the early game today in the NBA on national TV on the NBA TV network. While the Clippers are not eliminated, for the most part they are not going to make the playoffs as they trail 9th Place Denver by two games and eighth-place Minnesota by two and a half games. Right now the Clippers have too many teams to jump over to make the playoffs. Not so for the Denver Nuggets, who sit currently in 9th Place in the Western Conference just a half-game back of the Minnesota Timberwolves and one game back of the New Orleans Pelicans, San Antonio Spurs and the Oklahoma City Thunder. Any of those teams could be eliminated from the playoffs, which makes this a huge game for the Denver Nuggets. The Nuggets have won four straight games after defeating the Minnesota Timberwolves 102-96 their last game out. The key to a Denver win today is their big man Nikola Jokic, the 6-foot 10 Center is averaging 27 points a game his last five outings and dominates in the middle. Momentum in this game is definitely on the side of the Nuggets who have been winning, while the Clippers have been losing. A loss today by the Clippers and they are out, but a win today by the Nuggets keeps them in the thick of the playoff race. Take the Nuggets. |
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04-06-18 | Mavs v. Pistons -6.5 | Top | 106-113 | Win | 100 | 7 h 12 m | Show |
The Detroit Pistons and the Dallas Mavericks play for just a little pride today, seeing as both of these clubs have been eliminated from the NBA playoffs. The Pistons have been hot, winning seven of their last 10 games. Meanwhile, the Mavericks have won only 24 and lost 55 games this year and they are 2-8 their last 10 games. In addition, Dirk Nowitzki is out for the remainder of the games this season as he is having ankle surgery. The Pistons are 8-1 ATS in the last nine games overall, 4-0 ATS in the last four vs the Western Conference and 7-0 ATS in their last seven games versus a team with a losing straight-up record. The Mavericks are just 1-5 ATS in their last six road games and 0-4 ATS their last four vs the East. Take the Pistons. |
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04-05-18 | Wolves v. Nuggets -5 | 96-100 | Loss | -109 | 9 h 7 m | Show | |
Big game tonight in the NBA Western Conference as the Denver Nuggets host the Minnesota Timberwolves. Denver sits in 9th Place in the Western Conference just one game back of Minnesota and New Orleans and just one and a half games back of San Antonio and Oklahoma City. As we can see there's not much difference between 9th Place Denver and all the way up to 4th place Utah, with just two games separating those six teams. That makes this game between number 7 and number 9 even bigger tonight. Minnesota comes into this game with a five and five record their last 10 games. The Timberwolves have a losing record on the road at 16-23 S/U. Minnesota has not been very good to bettors of late, going just 5 - 16 - 1 ATS in the last 22 games. Moreover, they are 5-17 ATS in a their last 22 road games. This game means a lot more to Denver right now then Minnesota. Take Denver. |
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04-05-18 | Wizards v. Cavs -5.5 | Top | 115-119 | Loss | -105 | 7 h 36 m | Show |
The NBA playoff picture in the Eastern Conference is pretty much set, all eight teams are locked-in with the other teams already eliminated. However, there is still plenty of room to jockey for position within that top eight. One such game is the game on national television tonight between the Washington Wizards and the Cleveland Cavaliers. Washington sits currently tied for the 7th and 8th position with Milwaukee, just a half-game back of number 6 Miami. The Cleveland Cavaliers currently are in third position tied with the Philadelphia 76ers and two games ahead of 5th Place Indiana. For the Cavaliers this game has more implications as far as home court goes in the early rounds they don't want to drop below that number four spot here in the East or they face the possibility of not getting home court in the first round. The Wizards have not been very good for bettors lately, going 3-9 ATS in their last 12 games overall and they are 0-6 ATS in their last six away games. The Cavaliers who were horrible against the spread earlier this year have improved lately. Cleveland is 7-0 ATS in their last 7 home games and 4-0 ATS in their last four overall. I like the Cavaliers today to take this game and solidify their hold on the number three position. |
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04-03-18 | Warriors v. Thunder -4 | 111-107 | Loss | -110 | 8 h 27 m | Show | |
Golden State and Oklahoma City play on national TV tonight as the first end of a TNT double-header. The Warriors are currently in second place in the Western Conference, six games back of Houston and eight games ahead of Portland. That means today's game has no value to Golden State as they cannot improve or make worse their current position in the West. Oklahoma City is fifth in the Western Conference, however they are just one and a half games separating them from a 8th place New Orleans and just two-and-a-half games separating them from 9th Place Denver. That makes this game much more important for the host team Oklahoma City than it does for the visitor Golden State. That being said the Thunder need a win here to continue to hold on to their place number five spot in the standings and they even have a chance to overtake San Antonio for fourth in the West. My play in this game is on the Oklahoma City Thunder |
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04-03-18 | Nets v. 76ers -7.5 | 95-121 | Win | 100 | 7 h 28 m | Show | |
The Philadelphia 76ers are red hot, winning 10 games in a row and going 8-0 ATS in their last eight games. The Sixers are also 5-0 ATS in their last 5 verses the Eastern Conference and they are 6-0 ATS in their last six games playing on one day's rest. Today they will play the Brooklyn Nets. The Nets have been eliminated from the playoffs and they have only won four of their last six games including losing their last time at Detroit 108 - 96. In addition to being red-hot, the 76ers have won by at least 10 points in their last nine games. The 76ers also lead the NBA in rebounds per game and are second in assists per game. Philadelphia still has some incentive in this contest, they are just a half-game behind third-place Cleveland and they lead fifth-place Indiana by just a half-game. As hot as the 76ers have been I'm going to lay the points here with them on Tuesday. |
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03-31-18 | Loyola-Chicago +5.5 v. Michigan | 57-69 | Loss | -105 | 89 h 60 m | Show | |
Number 11 Loyola Chicago has done the improbable, advancing to the final four to take on Michigan. Loyola is definitely the Cinderella team in this field of four tournament veterans. Loyola last won a national championship in 1963. The Ramblers also have a 14-game win streak, longest among the four remaining teams. Both these teams will be very similar. They both boast very good defenses and efficient offenses. Both of these teams will be more than happy to play a half court, deliberate game and not turn this into a track meet. Loyola ranks fifth in effective field goal percentage while Michigan ranks 47th. Loyola is also 11th in the country in three-point percentage and ninth in overall field goal percentage. This will not be a high scoring game with both these defenses on the floor. I think the 5 or 5 1/2 we can get with Loyola is just too much to pass on here. This is a very good Loyola team that deserves to be here by virtue of their play and the points just look good to me. Play Loyola Chicago. |
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03-28-18 | San Francisco v. North Texas -3 | Top | 55-69 | Win | 100 | 19 h 25 m | Show |
Game 2 of the Best of 3 CBI Championship moves to North Texas. San Franciso took game one of this series on their home court, 72-62. The Dons pretty much had the game in control the entire way. North Texas saw it's offense get cut down after scoring over 90 points in their previous three games. The Green Machine scored just 62 points at San Francisco. The Dons his 12 of 18 from the three point line in Monday's game. This was not the norm for the Dons this year, as they were ranked 109th in three-pointers on the season. Despite their loss, the Mean Green get games two and a possible game three on their own home court. North Texas is 12-6 S/U at home compared to just 6-11 on the road. San Francisco is just 4-7 away from home. And, North Texas can take the momentum they had in the second half of game one and build on that, where they won 32-26. I like North Texas to rebound here at home. They can score in bunches and the Dons are just not that good a road team. Play North Texas. |
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03-27-18 | Mississippi State +2.5 v. Penn State | 60-75 | Loss | -106 | 99 h 15 m | Show | |
NIT semifinal action from Madison Square garden has Mississippi State taking on Penn State for the right to play in the Championship game. Mississippi State got her with road wins at Baylor, 78-77 and at Louisville, 79-56. The Bulldogs have covered five straight games and 13 of their last 16. Penn State got here with road wins at Notre Dame, 73-63 and at Marquette, 85-80. The Nittany Lions have covered two of three and five of eight. The rest will be good for this defensive Mississippi State team that has been on the road for a while. Their stingy defense held Louisville to just 35% from the field and 29.2% of three-point shots. I like defensive teams at this stage and that edge goes to the Bulldogs. I'm taking Mississippi State here on Tuesday. |
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03-27-18 | Western Kentucky -1 v. Utah | Top | 64-69 | Loss | -105 | 97 h 48 m | Show |
The NIT Semifinals move from the team's home court to Madison Square Garden in New York. This will help level the playing field and take away that home court value some teams enjoyed. Western Kentucky played their last two NIT games on the road, winning at USC, 79-75 and then at Oklahoma State, 92-84. The Hilltoppers had little problems scoring points, in fact they have scored at least 79 points in each of their three NIT contest. They are also covering well, evidenced by their 5-1 ATS the last six games and 9-3 ATS mark their last 12. Utah had to go to OT to beat St Mary's their last game, winning 67-58 in the extra period. The Utes had an early exit in the PAC-12 tourney, losing their first game to Oregon, 66-68. They played their first two NIT games at home before traveling to St Marys for their last game. Both these teams are playing very well. Western is very efficient, as they have the 8th best field goal percent in the nation (49.7%) to go with their 35.3% from the three-point stripe and 71.6% from the free throw line. I'm taking Western Kentucky here today because they have shown they can win on the road in the NIT. They also have this excellent offense. Take Western Kentucky |
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03-26-18 | North Texas +3.5 v. San Francisco | 62-72 | Loss | -104 | 22 h 54 m | Show | |
The CBI Tourney Championship best of three starts tonight with San Francisco hosting North Texas. North Texas is an unlikely team to make is this far, they don't even have a .500 record on the season despite winning two straight in this tourney. They have been scoring big points though with 90 at South Dakota, 96 at home over Mercer and then 90 at home over Jacksoville State. All three games were blowout wins for North Texas. Now they play at a San Francisco. The Dons have also won three straight in the CBI, all at home. They beat Colgate, 72-68, then Utah Valley, 78-73, and Campbell, 65-62. All three games were close, unlike North Texas three. Still, the Dons are just 1-5 ATS in their last six games. In my opinion, North Texas has been the best team in this tournament. I can easily see North Texas winning this one outright. I'll take the points though with the Mean Green. Play North Texas. |
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03-25-18 | Duke -3 v. Kansas | 81-85 | Loss | -103 | 15 h 37 m | Show | |
Unlike yesterday's 11 vs 9 matchup between Loyola and Kansas State, today's matchup is s storied one between two schools that have been here many times. No 2 Duke takes on No 1 Kansas here in the Elite 8. Duke has used a very stingy defense in the tournament, holding their opponents to just 64.6 ppg and 53.6% shooting. Duke will also have the advantage on the boards. Kansas holds a slight shooting edge, but I see Duke staying with them in that category. Duke has done well in neutral site games, going 9-3 ATS their last 11 tries. They have also done well against the Big 12, going 8-3 ATS their last 11. I have never been a fan of Kansas HC Bill Self. He has had great success with this team, but I also believe he is their biggest liability at this point. I like defensive teams at this juncture and that's Duke. Play Duke on Sunday. |
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03-24-18 | Florida State v. Michigan -4.5 | 54-58 | Loss | -107 | 19 h 22 m | Show | |
Elite 8 action here on Saturday has Florida State playing Michigan. Florida State pulled two straight upset wins, first over Xavier, 75-70 as a 5.5-point dog and then over Gonzaga, 75-60 as a 6-point dog. After an early exit from the ACC tournament, Florida State has moved into the final 8 of the NCAA tourney. They will likely face their toughest opponent today in a red-hot Michigan team. Michigan won their Big-10 Tournament with a convincing win over Purdue, 75-66. Now the Wolverines go for their fourth straight win in the NCAA tournament. The Wolverines have now won 12 straight games and are 8-3 ATS in their last 11 games. Michigan destroyed Texas A&M in the Sweet 16, raining down 3-point shots on the Aggies all day for the 99-72 win. Even with their 99 points, it's their defense that Michigan is known for. And if they score anywhere like they did against A&M, then this team will win it all. Michigan has lots of fresh legs for this game and right now will be considered an upset if they aren't playing for the National Championship come April 2nd. With Michigan being fresh here tonight, their defense will shut down Florida State and their offense will get it done. Play Michigan. |
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03-24-18 | Loyola-Chicago +1 v. Kansas State | 78-62 | Win | 100 | 7 h 40 m | Show | |
I'm sure there weren't many people with this matchup in their Elite 8 bracket. Loyola Chicago has used defense and timely scoring to advance to this point. Their three wins have been by a combined four points and maybe some divine intervention by Sister Jean. Loyola continues to find ways to win. The Ramblers have now won 13 games in a row and covered five straight and 10 of their last 13. Kansas State had some rough patches in the Big 12, losing to Kansas in their tournament, 67-83 and going 3-2 ATS in the tournaments. The Ramblers have been very good against good teams, going 20-7-1 ATS their last 28 gams vs a team with a win percentage above 60%. Kansas State has not done so well vs non-conference teams, going just 3-9 ATS their last 12. This game should be close as most of Loyola's games have been lately. But I will stick with the Ramblers here. Play Loyola Chicago. |
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03-24-18 | Central Michigan +3.5 v. Liberty | 71-84 | Loss | -105 | 2 h 43 m | Show | |
CBI Quarterfinals has Central Michigan facing Liberty. Central Michigan has been scoring like crazy in the CBI, beating IUPU Fort Wayne 94-89 and then Wofford, 98-94. They have covered four of their last six games. Liberty has had just one game in the CBI and that was a home winner over North Carolina A&T, 65-52. Big difference between the MAC and Big South conferences. Liberty steps up in talent today and runs into a scoring machine in Central Michigan. I like a team that can score big and is getting points. That's just what we have here today. Play Central Michigan. |
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03-23-18 | Texas Tech +2 v. Purdue | 78-65 | Win | 100 | 11 h 30 m | Show | |
NCAA Semis from Boston, MA has Texas Tech playing Purdue. Texas Tech lost to West Virginia in the Big 12 tournament, 63-66. The Red Raiders then opened NCAA tournament play with a win over Stephen Austin, 70-60 and then beat Florida, 69-66. Purdue lost to Michigan in the Big 10 tournament but beat Cal Fullerton and Butler in the NCAA tourney. Tech is one of the best teams in the nation in turnovers, averaging 15 per game. Their key to victory tonight is to limit Purdue's chances and add to theirs through turnovers. Texas Tech will have to take over here defensively and keep Purdue from running away with this game. The Raiders allowed the fewest points in the Big 12 and was 15th best in the country. I like Tech tonight to play solid defense and take Purdue out of their game. I'm taking Texas Tech. |
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03-23-18 | Syracuse +11.5 v. Duke | 65-69 | Win | 100 | 76 h 59 m | Show | |
NCAA Midwest Regional from Omaha, NE pits ACC foes Syracuse and Duke against each other. These teams know each other well though they didn't meet in the ACC tournament. Their one meeting this year, in Duke, resulted in a Blue Devil's win, 44-60. They totaled just 104 points in that game. Syracuse is 3-0 in the NCAA tournament, playing a solid zone defense that has help opponents to 53, 52 and 56 points respectively. The Orangemen have covered three straight and five of the last six. The Orange have also done well in NCAA tournaments, covering seven of their last eight NCAA games. Duke also plays a zone defense and while they haven't been as stingy as the Orange, they are still solid. The issue I have in this game is the line. Duke is laying 11 1/2 points to a good defensive team that keeps scores low. That being said, I don't think Duke can score enough points to cover this double digit line. The Blue Devils will have to work for their scoring opportunities against this Syracuse zone. Take the points with Syracuse here on Friday. |
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03-23-18 | West Virginia v. Villanova -5 | 78-90 | Win | 100 | 32 h 51 m | Show | |
The loss of so many top seeds has really opened up the field for just about any team to win this year's NCAA Championship. However, the favorite now has to be Villanova. Villanova has 32 wins and won the Big East Tourmament. They opened NCAA with wins over Radford by 26 points and Alabama by 23 points. They have covered four of their five games in the tournaments, despite being double digit favorites in four of the five. West Virginia lost to Kansas in the Big 12 Tourney, 70-81. The Mountaineers then beat Murray State and Marshall in the NCAA tourney. Now they face arguably the best team left of the 16 in the tournament. Villanova has a very balanced scoring team, with six players averaging in double figures. It just follows that the Wildcats are the nation's top scoring team with such talent on their club. West Virginia has to hope their defense can contain the nation's top offense, because they can't get into a scoring match with Villanova. Personally, I don't see West Virginia containing this club and with Villanova laying just five points, that to me is a bargain. I'm playing Villanova. |
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03-23-18 | Clemson v. Kansas -5 | 76-80 | Loss | -105 | 22 h 29 m | Show | |
Clemson was ousted by then No 1 Virginia in the ACC tournament, 58-64. Since then, Clemson has beaten New Mexico State and then buried Auburn, 84-53, in their two NCAA tourney games. Today will be the Tigers toughest matchup against a 29-win Kansas team. Kansas won their Big 12 conference tourney and then beat Penn and Seton Hall in their two NCAA tourney games. The Jayhawks are 4-1 ATS in their five tourney games and 7-3 ATS in their last 10 games. Clemson makes the Sweet 16 for the first time since 1997 and they did it without No 2 scorer Donte Grantham who they lost in January to a ACL tear. Kansas is used to this spot, this is the seventh time in 10 years the Jayhawks have been to the Sweet 16. Kansas has won five straight games and 10 of the last 11. Kansas relies on their 3-point shots, though they were last in the Big 12 in free throw attempts. I like Kansas here today as they have all the experience behind coach Bill Self at this stage of the tournament. Take Kansas. |
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03-22-18 | Kansas State v. Kentucky -5.5 | Top | 61-58 | Loss | -102 | 53 h 10 m | Show |
NCAA semifinal action from Atlanta, GA here on Thursday has Kansas State playing Kentucky. Kansas State has won two straight in the NCAA with a win over Creighton and then over Maryland Baltimore County, 50-43. UMBC had that historical win over No 1 seed Virginia and that likely made their entire season. Kansas State really runs into its first rocky spot here on Thursday against a very hot Kentucky club. Kentucky won the SEC Tournament and then in the NCAA's beat Davidson 78-73 and followed that up with a win over a very good Buffalo team, 95-75. The Wildcats of Kentucky have covered five straight games and nine of their last 10 games. Kentucky has historically been a very good tourney team, evidenced by their 31-15-5 ATS record on neutral courts. The Wildcats of Kansas State have not done well against good teams, covering just three of their last 10 when playing a team with a win percentage above 60%. They are also 2-6 ATS in their last eight neutral site games and 2-5 ATS their last seven NCAA tourney games. Kentucky playing well too good right now in a wide open field and has to be one of the teams to beat in this tournament. Lay the 5 1/2 points in what I look for another Kentucky blowout. |
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03-22-18 | Loyola-Chicago +2 v. Nevada | 69-68 | Win | 100 | 8 h 26 m | Show | |
Loyola Chicago was the Missouri Valley champion and the Tournament champion. They will face Nevada here today in the Sweet 16. Nevada was the regular season winner of the Mountain West but lost to San Diego State in the tournament. They beat Texas in OT for their first win and then came from way back to beat Cincinnati in the quarterfinals, 75-73. Nevada has only been mediocre vs the number, going 2-2-2 ATS in their last six games and 3-4-2 ATS in their last nine. Meanwhile, Loyola has covered four straight and nine of their last 12. Loyola's defense has been solid, holing seven consecutive opponents to 62 or fewer points. They also rank first in scoring defense among the remaining 16 teams. Nevada likes to play a faster paced, transition game, which will be tough today against the Ramblers. This should be close today with Loyola taking it with their defense. Play Loyola Chicago. |
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03-21-18 | Utah +7 v. St. Mary's | 67-58 | Win | 100 | 10 h 21 m | Show | |
NIT Quarterfinals on Wednesday has Utah playing at St Marys. Utah was a quick exit in the PAC-12 tournament, losing to Oregon, 66-68. They are 2-0 in the NIT, beating UC-Davis and then LSU, 95-71. The Utes have covered three of their last four games and seven of their last 10. St Marys has 30 wins, ended their tournament with 28 wins and still got passed over for the NCAA tourney. Mainly that was because of their poor performance in the WCC tournament where they beat Pepperdine by just three as a 15 1/2 point favorite and then lost to BYU as a 5.5 point favorite. In the NIT, St Mary's opened with a win over SE Louisiana 89-45 and then a close win over Washington, 85-81 as an 11-point favorite. The Gaels are 1-2 vs the PAC-12 this year both S/U and ATS. In addition, St Marys hasn't been good to bettors, going just 2-7 ATS their last nine games. I like the road team here tonight plus the points. Take UTAH. |
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03-19-18 | Western Kentucky +5 v. USC | Top | 79-75 | Win | 100 | 12 h 20 m | Show |
NIT 2nd round action here tonight has Western Kentucky playing at USC. Unlike the NCAA's, these teams still playing at home until they move to Madison Sq Garden. Western Kentucky won its first two games in the Conference USA tournament before losing to eventual title winner Marshal. The Hilltoppers won their opener in the NIT over Boston College, 79-62 as a small favorite. Western Kentucky has now covered seven of the last 10 games. USC won two games in the PAC-12 tourney before bowing out at the hands of Arizona, 61-75. The Trojans won their NIT opener with a Double OT victory over UNC Ashevill, 103-98. The Trojans struggled against Charlotte, despite being a 14.5 point home favorite. USC might not be too happy being passed over for the NCAA despite winning 23 games and finishing second in the PAC-12 with an RPI of 34. Western Kentucky had a few good days of rest between their NIT win and tonight. Both these teams could have easily made the NCAA tournament, but I have to think USC is the more disappointed, especially after it took two OT's to dispatch UNC Asheville. I'm taking the points here tonight with Western Kentucky. |
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03-18-18 | Clemson +1.5 v. Auburn | Top | 84-53 | Win | 100 | 8 h 58 m | Show |
The ACC meets the SEC here in the 2nd round of the NCAA tournament. Back before conference play, Clemson beat both SEC opponents, winning over Florida 71-69 and South Carolina, 64-48. Clemson opened NCAA play with a win over New Mexico State, 79-68 and have now covered three straight games. Auburn lost in their SEC tourney opener to Alabama, 63-81. Auburn did open NCAA play with a win over College of Charleston, 62-58, but did not cover the 9.5 point line. In fact, the Tigers have lost five straight to the number and six of the last seven. My numbers clearly show Clemson should be the favorite here, both in recent form and overall. On paper, these teams evenly matched, but I like Clemson to come out on top. Play Clemson. |
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03-18-18 | Syracuse +9.5 v. Michigan State | 55-53 | Win | 100 | 4 h 43 m | Show | |
NCAA 2nd round action has Syracuse taking on Michigan State. Syracuse lost in the 2nd round of the ACC tournament to North Carolina, 59-78. The Orangemen by virtue of their 22 wins in a tough conference go the NCAA invite and have won two straight. They opened with a win over Arizona State, 60-56 and then beat TCU, 57-52. Now they face 30 win Michigan State. Michigan State lost in their Big 10 tournament to Michigan, 64-75. The Spartans opened NCAA tourney play with a win over Bucknell, 82-78. The Spartans are 0-4 ATS in their last four games and 2-9-2 ATS in their last 13 games. Spartans not a big scoring team, though they did put up 82 vs Bucknell. They only scored 64, 63 and 68 in their three previous games. That's not a good sign for a team laying 9.5 points here today. That lack of scoring is a big reason the Spartans have only two covers in their last 13 games. My recent form number has this game even with my highest number on Michigan State around seven. I think this line is too high for a Spartans team that has issues scoring big numbers to cover big spreads. Take Syracuse. |
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03-17-18 | Ohio State v. Gonzaga -3.5 | 84-90 | Win | 100 | 8 h 8 m | Show | |
Not that I put a lot of weight on these teams first matchup back in November in one of the preseason tourneys, but Gonzaga trounced Ohio State in that matchup, 86-59. Too long ago to rely on that result though. Gonzaga cruised through their conference tourney, easily beating BYU for the crown, 74-54. The Zags then opened NCAA play with a lackluster win over UNC Greensboro, 68-64. Gonzaga has now won 16 straight games. Ohio State was an early out in the Big 10 tourney, losing to Penn State, 68-69. It was the team's third loss in five games before beating South Dakota State in round one of the NCAA, 81-73. Still, Ohio State is 1-4-1 ATS in their last six games. Gonzaga laying 3.5-points here today and while I'll discount that blowout in their first meeting, I still like this team to advance on and cover today's game. Play Gonzaga. |
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03-17-18 | Seton Hall +5 v. Kansas | 79-83 | Win | 100 | 8 h 33 m | Show | |
Seton Hall may have bowed out early in their own tournament, but they survived round one of the NCAA tourney with a win over NC State, 94-83. The Pirates have covered five games in a row. Kansas won the Big 12 tourney with a big win over West Virginia, 81-70. They won their opener over Penn, 76-60 and have now covered four in a row. This one for me comes down to coaching. I do not like or trust Bill Self of Kansas. Especially in big games like this. Never have, never will. Plus Kansas is now up to a 5 or 5.5 point favorite and my own numbers show this game as closer to two points in recent form. I'm taking the points here and counting on Self to do what he does best, screw things up. Take Seton Hall. |
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03-17-18 | Buffalo v. Kentucky -5.5 | Top | 75-95 | Win | 100 | 21 h 18 m | Show |
What a season this Buffalo team has had. They won 27 games and the MAC Championship over Toledo, 76-66. They opened the first round of the NCAA with a big upset win over Arizona, 89-68. However, here is my problem with both these things. First, Buffalo is a very good team, for a MAC team. If we look back to their pre-MAC schedule, we see they lost to Cincinnati by 10, South Dakota by 14, Syracuse by 7 and Texas A&M by 16. My point being, there is a big difference in the athlete that goes to Buffalo to play basketball vs someone who goes to a Basketball powerhouse like Kentucky. In addition, you have to take that Arizona win with a grain of salt. Sure, they beat the Wildcats easily. However, the Wildcats gave up. Arizona was riddled with off court allegations of game fixing and their coach came under scrutiny for other issues. And right after the game was over, the Wildcats two best players announced their availability for the NBA draft. This was a Arizona team that just had no heart left to play. Meanwhile, Kentucky is peaking. They have won four straight and nine of their last 10 games. they have also covered nine of their last 10. In their opening win over Davidson, they had the game by double digits in the last minute, but some three's by Davidson made the score closer then it really was. I really like this Kentucky team here today. Lay the short price today with Kentucky. |
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03-16-18 | College of Charleston +9.5 v. Auburn | Top | 58-62 | Win | 100 | 18 h 2 m | Show |
A pair of 25-win teams meet up in San Diego tonight for the NCAA 1st round. College of Charleston won their conference tournament by beating Northeastern, 83-76. The Charleston Cougars won 13 of their 14 games. They also covered five of their last seven games. Auburn lost three of their last four games in including their first SEC tournament game to Alabama, 63-81. The Tigers also failed to cover any of their last four games. Auburn lost a key player, F Anfernee McLemore back in February and since then they have lost four of their six games. Auburn is a 9-point favorite here, but I look for Charleston to give them all they can handle. Play College of Charleston. |
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03-16-18 | Kansas State +1 v. Creighton | 69-59 | Win | 100 | 17 h 23 m | Show | |
NCAA first round action from Charlotte, NC today finds Kansas State taking on Creighton. Kansas State lost in the Big 12 conference tournament to Kansas, 67-83. The Wildcats were 5-2 ATS in their last seven games following a straight up loss. The Creighton Blue Jays were an early exit in the Big East tournament losing to Providence, 68-72. The Jayhawks lost four of their last six games and were a terrible 2-8 ATS in their last 10 games. In addition, Creighton was 8-20 ATS their last 28 games vs a team with a win percentage above 60%. Also, the Blue Jays have not done well in the NCAA tournament, going 1-9-1 ATS their last 10 attempts. Creighton a 1-point favorite here, but I look for Kansas State to take this one and advance to the next round. Play Kansas State. |
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03-16-18 | Marshall +12 v. Wichita State | 81-75 | Win | 100 | 12 h 2 m | Show | |
NCAA first round action continues here on Friday with Marshall taking on Wichita State. Marshall won the Conference USA tournament by beating Western Kentucky, 67-66. The Herd won and covered all three of their tournament games. The are now 8-2 ATS in their last 10 games. Wichita State lost in the American Athletic semifinals to Houston, 74-77. The Shockers finished poorly from a bettor's perspective. They were 0-6 ATS down the stretch. Today the Shockers are laying 12 points to Marshall. My recent play numbers have this game closer to a two-point line and as high as six on Wichita. With Marshall covering spread and Wichita not, I'm taking the points here on Friday. Play Marshall. |
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03-15-18 | San Diego State +4 v. Houston | 65-67 | Win | 100 | 7 h 22 m | Show | |
NCAA first round action has San Diego State taking on Houston. San Diego State won the Mountain West tournament with a victory over New Mexico, 82-75 in the championship game. The Aztecs covered their last five games and eight of the last nine. Houston put up a good fight in the American Athletic tournament, but lost to Cincinnati, 55-56. The Cougars finished the season winning five of the last six games. Houston is laying four points. My numbers show them closer to two points overall and in recent form I have San Diego State the favorite. This is a great matchup, one of the best in the first round, but I like the points here with San Diego State. |
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03-15-18 | Stephen F Austin +11.5 v. Texas Tech | 60-70 | Win | 100 | 54 h 2 m | Show | |
NCAA tourney action here on Thursday has Stephen Austin taking on Texas Tech. SFA had an excellent Southland Conference run, beating Central Arkansas, Nicholls State and then SE Louisiana for the title. Their defense has been solid, holding six of their last seven opponents to 66 or less points. Texas Tech opened Big 12 tourney action with a win over Texas, then lost to West Virginia, 63-66. Tech has not been good to bettors, going 0-6-1 ATS in their last seven games. Stephen Austin played good teams early in the season, losing by one to Missouri as a 14-point dog and beating LSU as a 8.5 point dog. Too many points here with Tech laying 11.5 on a neutral court. I'm taking SF Austin plus the points. |
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03-15-18 | Davidson v. Kentucky -4.5 | 73-78 | Win | 100 | 7 h 32 m | Show | |
Kentucky has been a very good over bet this year. The Wildcats were 8-0 O/U in their last eight non-conference games and 7-1 O/U in their last eight overall. On a neutral site, the Wildcats were 4-1 O/U their last five games. Davidson went over in two of their three conference tournament games. I look for this game to go over today. |
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03-15-18 | Loyola-Chicago +1.5 v. Miami-FL | 64-62 | Win | 100 | 68 h 3 m | Show | |
NCAA first round action from Dallas has Loyola Chicago taking on Miami Florida. The Ramblers of Loyola had an excellent season, winning 28 games and their own tournament title. They cruised through the Missouri Valley tourney, finishing with a nice 65-49 win over Illinois State. Miami finished with 22 wins and lost to North Carolina in their ACC opener, 65-82. The Hurricanes were just 3-10 ATS their last 13 games. Meanwhile, Loyola was much kinder to bettors, going 7-3 ATS their last 10 down the stretch. Miami installed as the small favorite here, though I think Loyola wins this game. I'm taking the dog here in Loyola Chicago. |
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03-15-18 | Oklahoma v. Rhode Island -2 | 78-83 | Win | 100 | 65 h 8 m | Show | |
NCAA first round action has Oklahoma taking on Rhode Island. Big surprise that Oklahoma made the big dance with just 18 wins. Even Louisville had more wins and didn't make the NCAA. Have to wonder what the selection committee is thinking here. Oklahoma didn't finish the season well, losing eight of their last 10 games both S/U and ATS. Rhode Island might have lost in their tournament to Davidson, but that doesn't take away from a nice 25 win season for the Rams. Rhode Island is the team that should be here and not Oklahoma. I look for the Sooners to bow out today. Play Rhode Island. |
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03-14-18 | Arizona State v. Syracuse +1.5 | 56-60 | Win | 100 | 20 h 42 m | Show | |
NCAA first round action has Arizona State playing Syracuse. ASU was a quick exist in the PAC-12 tournament, losing to Colorado, 85-97. The Sun Devils lost five of their last six games and still made the NCAA's. They were equally bad vs the number, going 1-5 ATS their last six games. Syracuse won their ACC opener over Wake Forest and then lost to North Carolina, 59-78. This game is basically a pick'em. All of my numbers have Syracuse a favorite, from three to four points. I like the Orange here tonight. Play Syracuse. |
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03-14-18 | Nebraska +4 v. Mississippi State | 59-66 | Loss | -105 | 20 h 32 m | Show | |
Both of these 22 win teams can't be happy being passed over for the NCAA tourney when teams like Arizona State and Syracuse both got in with 20 wins. Still, who will be the more motivated team tonight? Nebraska had an excellent run at the end f the season, going 8-2 down the stretch. They also covered 14 of their last 17 games. Mississippi State lost to Tennessee in the SEC tournament, 59-62. It was their third loss in four games. Miss State is a four point favorite here tonight. My numbers have them closer to two points and in recent form I have Nebraska the favorite. I have done well with the Huskers, especially late in the season. I'm taking Nebraska here tonight. |
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03-14-18 | North Carolina Central v. Texas Southern -5.5 | 46-64 | Win | 100 | 6 h 10 m | Show | |
NCAA First Four play-in game has NC Central taking on Texas Southern. NC Central had to win four games to win their Mid-Eastern Conference tournament. They beat Hampton in the champ game, 71-63. They also covered all four games. Texas Southern got here with just 15 wins by winning the Southwestern Athletic Conference title over Arkansas Pine Bluff, 84-67. Tex Southern has had seven games with lines this year and they have covered six. This team hasn't been afraid of competition, playing their first 13 games of the season on the road. They played Gonzaga, Washington State, Ohio State, Syracuse, Kansas, Clemson, Oregon, Baylor, Wyoming, TCU and BYU during that stretch. Those games gave them valuable experience against top notch opponents on the road. Tex Southern also won its last seven games of the season. Whoever wins will be fodder for a No 1 seed, but I like Texas Southern because they have proven they can play with anyone in the country. Take Texas Southern. |
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03-13-18 | Rider v. Oregon -11.5 | Top | 86-99 | Win | 100 | 11 h 44 m | Show |
Rider having to make the long trip from New Jersey to the Northwest to play Oregon. From all accounts it was a rough trip too, considering the weather in the East coast. That will make this game even tougher for Rider, a Metro Atlantic team stepping way up in class to play a PAC-12 squad today. Rider lost its opener in the Metro Atlantic tournament to St Peters, 55-66. Won't get any easier tonight against this Oregon squad. The Ducks won their first two games of the PAC-12 tourney before losing to USC, 54-74. I like Oregon a lot here, mainly because this Rider team has to be exhausted after their plane ride and the fact that is in all likelihood a one-and-done tournament for them. Play Oregon. |
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03-13-18 | Northern Kentucky +9 v. Louisville | 58-66 | Win | 100 | 25 h 55 m | Show | |
NIT action here on Tuesday has Northern Kentucky playing at Louisville. Northern Ky had a nice run at the end of the season, winning three of their last four games and eight of their last 10. Louisville was a victim of No 1 Virginia in the ACC tournament, losing 58-75. The Cardinals didn't play all that great at the end of the regular season, going 4-8 in their last 12 games. In addition, bettors lost money on them as they went just 5-6 their last 11 vs the number. No.KY won more games than Louisville did this year. Have to wonder why Louisville is even here. They got passed up for the NCAA by a team like Oklahoma that had fewer wins and then the players voted not to go to the NIT, but they are going anyways. I don't see Louisville's heart in this one. I like Northern Kentucky in what I see as a possible upset win here on Tuesday. Play Northern Kentucky. |
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03-13-18 | Wagner v. Baylor -13 | 59-80 | Win | 100 | 2 h 27 m | Show | |
Wagner charted as one of the smallest teams in the nation this year, 351 in effective height. Meanwhile, Baylor comes in at a bruising #13, and it isn't just that the Bears are tall, they are also athletic. Wagner struggled to score near the basket against weak competition (#270 in 2-point%), and now will find nothing easy near the rim, while also having to hit 3-point shots from further out. Note that there was one other Wagner game against a KenPom Top 200, a short trip to play Seton Hall, where they fell down big early and lost by 21. This will be a mismatch today in the NIT. Take Baylor. |
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03-12-18 | Heat v. Blazers -7 | Top | 99-115 | Win | 100 | 11 h 14 m | Show |
Portland has been one of the hotter teams of late, especially at home where they are 13-2-1 ATS in their last 16 games and 16-5-1 ATS their last 22 overall. The Blazers are also on a nine game win streak after beating Golden State easily, 125-108. In fact, in their last nine wins, the lowest margin of victory has been eight points. Miami is coming off a two game home streak. The Heat have lost their last three away games, two in OT. The Blazers have covered four of the last five vs the Heat in Portland. In addition, the home team is 5-2 ATS the last seven. Portland just playing too well right now. I'm taking the Trailblazers tonight. |
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03-11-18 | Houston +4.5 v. Cincinnati | 55-56 | Win | 100 | 4 h 4 m | Show | |
American Athletic Conference Championship today with Houston taking on Cincinnati. Both these teams will make the NCAA tournament, despite what happens here on Sunday. Houston has been one of my favorite teams and they pulled the minor upset on Saturday with the win over Wichita State, 77-74 as a small dog. The Cougars have now won five straight games and 10 of their last 11. They are also 8-2-1 ATS their last 11. Cincinnati can hit the 30 win mark with a win today. The Bearcats beat SMU in their opener. It wasn't so easy for the Bearcats yesterday, as they trailed Memphis by 13 points at the half. However, a big defensive stand in the second half couple with some scoring pulled out the 70-60 win. Still, the |
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03-11-18 | Davidson +2 v. Rhode Island | 58-57 | Win | 100 | 2 h 34 m | Show | |
Atlantic 10 championship has Davidson taking on Rhode Island for the automatic bid to the NCAA tournament. Rhode Island has 25 wins and win or lose today, they should get in the NCAA tourney. Davidson is another matter, with 20 wins they likely will be bypassed for the NCAA unless they win today. That gives Davidson extra incentive after winning their first two games of the tourney. Davidson opened with a win over St Louis then beat St Bonny's yesterday, 82-70. Rhode Island struggled in their win on Saturday over St Joe's, trailing at the half before rallying late for the narrow win, 90-87. The Rams failed to cover and are now 2-5 ATS in their last seven attempts. My numbers favor Davidson here on Sunday, plus they need to win to get in. Take Davidson. |
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03-10-18 | North Carolina v. Virginia -4.5 | 63-71 | Win | 100 | 10 h 17 m | Show | |
Win or lose today, top ranked Virginia will get a one seed in the NCAA tournament. Still the Cavaliers would like to put the finishing touches on a great season. Virginia hit the 30 win mark yesterday with their win over Clemson, 64-58. The defense was once again stellar, holding an opponent to under 60 points - the ninth time in the last 10 games they have done so. North Carolina will play its fourth game in four days today after beating Duke on Friday, 74-69. The Tar Heels lost at Virginia in their one meeting this year, 69-61. North Carolina has been playing well in this tournament, but I look for them to run out of gas today against this top defensive unit of Virginia. I'm laying the points with Virginia today. |
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03-10-18 | San Diego State -4 v. New Mexico | 82-75 | Win | 100 | 8 h 52 m | Show | |
San Diego State jumped out to a huge first half lead over Nevada on Friday and never looked back. The Aztecs return to the Mountain West Championship game today to face New Mexico. The Aztecs are on a eight game win streak and have covered seven of the last eight games. New Mexico struggled early on Friday against Utah State, but used a huge 23-2 rally in the late first half to open things up and cruised to a 83-68 win. The Lobos have been scoring points, putting at least 83 on the board in each of their last six games and topping 100 in two of the last six. This looks to be a great game between two hot teams. I'm taking the Aztecs though who have been much more impressive so far in the tournament. Take San Diego State. |
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03-10-18 | Houston +3.5 v. Wichita State | 77-74 | Win | 100 | 5 h 8 m | Show | |
American Athletic Semifinal action today has Houston taking on Wichita State. Houston has been one of those "Under the Radar" teams this year, quietly winning 25 games. The Cougars have won four straight and nine of the last 10. They have also covered seven of the last 10 with one push. They opened tourney play yesterday with an easy win over Central Florida, 84-56. Wichita State opened tourney play with a win over Temple, 89-81. The Shockers have not covered a game in their last five tries. The teams have split their two meetings this year with each winning on their own home court. Wichita State is a three point favorite here today. My numbers actually favor Houston in recent play and in road value. I'm taking Houston today! |
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03-10-18 | Alabama v. Kentucky -4 | Top | 63-86 | Win | 100 | 3 h 24 m | Show |
SEC Tourney Game of the Year: Alabama opened tourney play with a narrow win over Texas A&M, 71-70. Then followed that win with another on Friday over Auburn, 81-63. The two wins snapped a five game losing streak by the Crimson Tide. The Tide now play a Kentucky team they lost to back in February, 71-81. Kentucky had just one game in tourney action so far, a easy win over Georgia on Friday, 62-49. The Cats had little trouble with Georgia, which should be good for them going into today's contest. The win was the fifth in their last six games both S/U and ATS. Definitely a fresher Kentucky team here today as Alabama has had two games and Kentucky just the one. Good spot here for the Cats, take Kentucky. |