March Madness Betting Preview (April 2, 2025): Men’s & Women’s College Hoops

This betting preview covers key March Madness-style postseason games on April 2, 2025 – including two men’s College Basketball Crown second-round matchups and three women’s postseason clashes (WBIT Championship and WNIT Semifinals). Below we break down each game with location, context, current team form, odds, best bets, player props, and lineup news.

Butler vs Boise State (Men’s College Basketball Crown 2nd Round)

Location/Context: A neutral-site quarterfinal of the inaugural College Basketball Crown tournament in Las Vegas (MGM Grand)​. Butler (15–19) upset Utah 86–84 in the first round, while Boise State (25–10) cruised 89–59 over George Washington​. The Broncos are a 7.5-point favorite (opened -5.5) with an over/under of 154.5 points​.

 

Team Form: Butler thrives on offense (KenPom #41) but struggles defensively (KenPom #148)​. They scored 86 vs Utah but allowed 84 and 38 points in the paint​. Boise State had an inconsistent start last game (3 points in 8 minutes) before exploding offensively​. The Broncos average 75.3 PPG and boast a stout defense (allowing 65.9 PPG)​, ranking 311th nationally in 3PT% (just 31.2%) but compensating with strong interior play​

Betting Odds & Best Bet: The spread has ballooned to Boise -7.5, likely due to Butler’s leading scorer Jahmyl Telfort being out (personal/pro decision)​. Without Telfort (16.0 PPG), Butler loses an All-Big East forward and defensive presence. They did shoot 41% from deep in his absence vs Utah​, with guard Pierre Brooks (22 points last game) stepping up. Still, Boise’s balanced attack led by F Tyson Degenhart (18.0 PPG) should exploit Butler’s soft defense. The Broncos offense put up 52 points in the paint vs GW and now faces a Bulldogs defense that ranks 337th in points allowed in the paint (36.2 per game)​. Best Bet: Boise State -7.5 to cover – the Broncos’ inside game and Butler’s missing star tip the scales. The over 154.5 is also intriguing given Butler’s up-tempo style and lack of stops (170 total points in their last game)​, though Boise’s defense could keep the total in check. Lean over if Butler dictates pace.

 

Player Props: If available, look at Tyson Degenhart’s points over – Boise’s go-to forward will be fed early and often against a Bulldogs interior that allows 51% shooting on 2s​. For Butler, guard Pierre Brooks’ scoring prop might offer value coming off a hot game. Also consider Boise guard Alvaro Cardenas over 6.5 assists (he averages 6.9 APG) as he orchestrates the offense​. Always confirm lineup news – Butler’s Telfort will not play in this tournament​, a key factor.

 

Injury/Lineup News: Butler is missing F Jahmyl Telfort (personal leave)​ and also lost G/F Jayden Taylor to transfer earlier (plus freshman Jamie Kaiser redshirted)​. Boise State enters at full strength; their core of Degenhart, Max Rice, and PG Cardenas is intact. Butler’s depth stepped up vs Utah (freshman Evan Haywood hit 3 threes in his first start)​, but sustaining that against Boise’s defense is a tall order.

 

Nebraska vs Georgetown (Men’s College Basketball Crown 2nd Round)

Location/Context: The second Crown quarterfinal in Las Vegas (MGM Grand, 9:30 PM ET, FS1)​pits Nebraska (18–14) against Georgetown (18–15). Nebraska is an 8.5-point favorite (opened -6.5) with total 153.5​. Both teams won first-round games: Nebraska beat Arizona State 86–78, and Georgetown edged Washington State 85–82 in a thriller​.

Team Form: Nebraska snapped a late-season skid by rallying past ASU​. Wing Brice Williams poured in 30 points in that win (averaging 20.3 in postseason)​. The Huskers are mediocre offensively but solid defensively under coach Fred Hoiberg. They allow 68.2 PPG and have a physical edge inside with forwards Juwan Gary and Wilhelm Breidenbach. Georgetown, under second-year coach Ed Cooley, showed progress but was inconsistent. They leaned on sophomore guard Malik Mack (Harvard transfer) for a career-high 37 points vs WSU, including 8–12 from three​, to advance. However, the Hoyas were extremely shorthanded: starting wing Micah Peavy (17.2 PPG) and guard Jayden Epps (12.8 PPG) both missed Monday’s game due to illness​, and they remain questionable. Georgetown’s frontcourt is depleted too – 6-10 freshman Thomas Sorber (14.5 PPG, 8.5 RPG) is out for the season (foot), as is reserve big Julius Halaifonua (ankle)​. They even lost F Drew Fielder (transfer portal)​. Despite that, the Hoyas managed with a short rotation behind Mack and forward Jordan Burks, who grabbed a double-double vs WSU​

Betting Odds & Best Bet: Nebraska at -8.5 is a sizable favorite given Georgetown’s roster uncertainty. If Peavy and Epps remain out or limited, the Huskers’ advantage grows – Nebraska already has a 65.4% win probability via ESPN Analytics​. The Huskers offense looked rejuvenated with Williams and guard CJ Wilcher hitting shots. Meanwhile, Georgetown’s defense has been suspect (allowing 76 PPG) and could struggle to contain Nebraska’s balanced attack. Best Bet: Nebraska -8.5 to cover, especially if Hoyas’ top players sit. If Georgetown’s guards return healthy, they could keep it closer, but Nebraska’s depth and inside presence (Derrick Walker Jr. patrolling the paint) still make them likely to advance. The over 153.5 is reasonable considering both teams hit the 80s last round. However, note that was partly due to Georgetown’s thin bench forcing an up-tempo shootout. If the Hoyas are tired or undermanned, their scoring may dip. We lean over only if Georgetown’s scorers play; otherwise the under could hit if Nebraska controls pace.

 

Player Props: Monitor Malik Mack’s points prop – after 37 points last game, books might set it high. If Epps/Peavy are out again, Mack will have the green light on offense. That said, Nebraska will key on him defensively, so beware of a regression. For Nebraska, forward Brice Williams over 18.5 points is worth a look given his hot streak (averaging 20+ lately)​. Also consider Nebraska’s big man Juwan Gary’s rebound prop; Georgetown is thin inside (starting a 6-9 forward at center), so Gary (17.3 PPG last 10; also grabs boards) ​could dominate the glass.

 

Injury/Lineup News: As noted, Georgetown’s status is the big wild card. If Micah Peavy and Jayden Epps recover from illness by tip-off, the Hoyas gain two double-digit scorers and veteran ball-handlers. There’s no official word as of morning, so check updates. Nebraska appears healthy; they lost F Rienk Mast (foot) earlier in the year​, but have adjusted. Guard Keisei Tominaga graduated last year, and transfer PG Jarron Coleman left mid-season, but the Huskers have gelled with Williams, Gary, and Sam Hoiberg in key roles. Barring a miraculous Hoya recovery, Nebraska’s continuity and depth (plus Georgetown’s missing frontcourt​) give them a strong edge.

 

Belmont vs Minnesota – WBIT Championship (Women’s Basketball Invitational Tournament Final)

Location/Context: The WBIT Championship Game takes place at historic Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis (Butler’s campus)​. Minnesota (24–11) hosts Belmont (26–12) in the title matchup of this 32-team postseason tournament for women’s teams that missed the NCAA field​. Tip-off is 6:00 PM ET (ESPN2 TV)​. The Gophers are favored (ESPN’s model gives Minnesota a 77% win probability)​.

Team Form: Minnesota has flourished in the WBIT despite a disappointing end to the regular season. The Gophers lost 8 of 10 to finish Big Ten play, partly due to injuries to star guard Mara Braun and forward Taylor Woodson that knocked them off the NCAA bubble​. Now, they’ve turned it around with four straight postseason wins. Minnesota beat Florida 66–52 in the semifinal, showcasing improved defense and balanced scoring. Sophomore guard Grace Grocholski (All-Big Ten HM) led the way with 18 points vs Florida, and PG Amaya Battle (All-Big Ten HM) runs a steady offense​. Crucially, the Gophers are getting Braun and Woodson back healthy​. Braun was the team’s leading scorer (~14 PPG) before reinjuring her foot mid-season​. She’s expected to play in the final, adding a perimeter scoring threat (career 34% 3PT) and secondary ball-handling (4.0 APG)​. Woodson was a top reserve (athletic forward) before her knee injury​. Even if they’re eased in, their presence deepens a lineup that already features senior forward Maggie Czinano (younger sister of WNBA player Monika Czinano) as an inside threat.

 

Belmont’s Bruins have been the Cinderella of the WBIT. The Missouri Valley Conference squad upset Villanova 66–57 in the semifinal to reach this championship​. Belmont is 26-12 (15-5 MVC) and has won four straight, largely on the strength of defense and balanced offense. They hold opponents to 38.5% shooting and just 60.8 PPG​. Offensively, they aren’t star-driven – four players average double figures: Jailyn Banks (12.8 PPG), Kendal Cheesman (12.0 PPG, 8.7 RPG), Kendall Holmes (11.1), and Tuti Jones (10.2)​. In the semifinal, guard Jailyn Banks exploded for 25 points to knock off Villanova​. Cheesman, a 6’1” forward, anchors the paint (321 rebounds this year, 8.7 RPG – second in MVC)​. Belmont has shown poise on the road, but this will be their toughest test yet.

 

Betting Odds & Best Bet: Minnesota is expected to be favored by around 7–8 points (implied by analytics and Power Ratings). The Gophers have more high-major talent and experience playing in last year’s WNIT final. Belmont, however, has covered as underdogs throughout this tourney. The key will be tempo: Minnesota averages 74 PPG, shooting 44% (5.6% better than what Belmont usually allows)​. Belmont scores a more modest 66–68 PPG in WBIT play and might struggle if this becomes a shootout. With Braun back, Minnesota’s offense should get a boost. Best Bet: Minnesota to win (-moneyline) and cover the spread. The Gophers’ size and home-court-esque support (just a state away) should help them pull away late. Belmont’s depth scoring keeps them in it early, but expect Minnesota’s defense (allowing just 52 and 55 points in the last two games) to make key stops. For the total (O/U ~134): Belmont prefers a slower pace and strong defense, while Minnesota has held opponents under 60 in back-to-back games. We lean UNDER if the line is mid-130s – something like a 70-60 type Gophers win is feasible.

 

Player Props: Mara Braun’s points – Braun might be on a minutes limit, but if her prop line is low (e.g. ~10.5 points), consider the over; she’s a clutch scorer who could lead the team if she’s feeling 100%. On Belmont’s side, Jailyn Banksover 12.5 points is worth a look given her recent 25-point performance​. Also watch Kendal Cheesman’s rebounding prop – she averages nearly 9 boards, and Minnesota’s frontcourt will need to box her out. If Minnesota’s Czinano or Woodson get her in foul trouble, Belmont’s chances drop.

 

Injury/Lineup News: Minnesota is finally healthy at the right time. Braun and Woodson are suiting up after lengthy layoffs​. Their return not only adds production but also inspires the team (all five starters are underclassmen who will return next year​, so this is a momentum builder). Belmont appears to have no major injuries; they’ve relied on the same core four players all season. One factor: fatigue. Belmont played a tough defensive game Monday and now faces a deep Gophers squad. If Minnesota pushes the pace with fresh legs (Battle, Braun, Rose rotating in the backcourt), Belmont could wear down in the second half.

 

Cleveland State vs Buffalo – WNIT Semifinal (“Fab 4”)

Location/Context: The Women’s NIT Fab 4 (Semifinals) features Cleveland State at Buffalo, 6:00 PM ET at Alumni Arena in Buffalo, NY​. This is a campus-site matchup – Buffalo earned hosting rights with an impressive run. The winner advances to the WNIT Championship on Saturday​. Expect a full house as Buffalo (28–7) and Cleveland State (27–9) both chase their first-ever WNIT title.

 

Team Form: Buffalo is red-hot, riding a 7-game win streak and a 14–1 non-conference record​. They defeated Big Ten foe Rutgers 71–64 in the quarterfinal (“Great 8”)​, marking their third straight postseason win – a program first. Fifth-year guard Chellia Watson is the Bulls’ star. She dropped 28 points vs Rutgers, continuing a season where she averages 20.5 PPG and earned First-Team All-MAC​. Watson is a three-level scorer who lives at the foul line (11-of-12 FT last game)​. Buffalo’s supporting cast is strong: guard Kirsten Lewis-Williams (13.4 PPG) added 17 points in the quarterfinal​and provides slashing and rebounding (5.4 RPG). Point guard Noelani Cornfield (10.6 PPG, 5.8 APG) orchestrates the offense and was All-MAC Defensive team​. Buffalo’s defense is underrated – they allow just 60.8 PPG and thrive on turnover margin (25-7 when winning TO battle)​

Cleveland State, the Horizon League runner-up, is also on a roll with four straight WNIT wins. The Vikings beat Purdue Fort Wayne 76–65 in the Great 8, and at 27–9 have notched a program-record for wins​. They boast a balanced offense with four players in double figures​. Horizon Player of the Year Mickayla Perdue leads with 20.0 PPG, a dynamic scoring guard who has twenty 20-point games this year​. Forward Jordana Reisma (14.8 PPG) is a force inside and incredibly efficient – she leads the nation in FG% (67.7%)​. Wing Destiny Leo (10.9 PPG) is a former Horizon POY who can get hot from 3, and guard Sara Guerreiro (10.6 PPG, 7.6 RPG, 4.1 APG) is a do-it-all glue player​. Cleveland State has outscored teams by 13.9 points per game this season (74.7 scored vs 60.8 allowed)​, so they’re used to winning comfortably. However, facing Buffalo on the road will be a major step up in competition and crowd intensity.

 

Betting Odds & Best Bet: If odds are posted, Buffalo would likely be a small favorite (approx. -3 to -5) given home court and a slightly better resume (Buffalo beat a Power-5 team last round). It’s a clash of two very evenly matched squads. Both score around 74–75 PPG and allow ~61 PPG​. One key difference: Buffalo is battle-tested against stronger competition (they went 14-1 out of conference)​, whereas Cleveland State’s Horizon League schedule was lighter. Also, Buffalo’s home record is formidable (14-1 at home vs non-MAC teams). Best Bet: Buffalo to win (moneyline) and cover up to -4. The Bulls’ experience (two fifth-year senior stars in Watson and Cornfield) and home crowd advantage tip the scales in a game that should be tight most of the way. Buffalo’s ability to get to the foul line and hit free throws could be the difference late. As for the total, expect a line in the mid-130s. Both teams have high-powered offenses, but also solid defenses. Cleveland State likes to push pace (they average nearly 75 possessions), and Buffalo can play fast as well with Watson in transition. We lean OVER if the game stays close (late fouls could push it over). Something like 70-66 (136 total) is in play, so a total around 134–136 is reasonable. If either team goes cold under pressure, the under could hit, but the over seems slightly more likely given the offensive talent on the floor.

 

Player Props: Chellia Watson over 20.5 points – Watson has scored 23+ in 7 of her last 9 games and will be the focal point of Buffalo’s offense again. Cleveland State’s defense is solid but did allow 64 to low-scoring Rutgers, so Watson should find her points. Also watch Mickayla Perdue’s points prop. If it’s around 18.5, the over could be appealing; as a 20.0 PPG scorer​, Perdue will need a big game for the Vikings to pull the upset. One prop to consider is Rebounds: Buffalo is slightly undersized, and CSU outrebounds opponents by +6.5 RPG​. Jordana Reisma over 8.5 rebounds could cash (she averages ~7.0, but her activity inside might spike against Buffalo). On Buffalo’s side, Noelani Cornfield over 5.5 assists is worth a look – she had 7 dimes last game​and pushes the tempo.

 

Injury/Lineup News: Both teams appear healthy and at full strength. Cleveland State’s depth will be tested on the road; they play about 8 deep and rely heavily on their quartet of stars. Foul trouble for Reisma or Perdue could be devastating. Buffalo’s rotation is also about 7–8 deep, but they have the luxury of home court and haven’t shown fatigue yet. No notable injuries reported on either side, so it’s strength vs strength. A notable trend: Cleveland State has not faced a scorer like Watson in this WNIT; how they defend her (possibly using Destiny Leo or a committee) will be crucial. If Watson gets rolling, Buffalo should prevail.

Troy vs Illinois State – WNIT Semifinal (“Fab 4”)

Location/Context: The other WNIT semifinal features Troy visiting Illinois State at CEFCU Arena in Normal, IL (7:30 PM ET, ESPN+). Illinois State earned the host spot and is historically tough at home in the WNIT (16–3 all-time at home in the tourney)​. The winner will face the Buffalo/Cleveland St. winner in Saturday’s championship​.

 

Team Form: Illinois State (24–12) is on a postseason roll, having won four straight WNIT games. The Redbirds took down Louisiana Tech 78–70 in the quarterfinal​, fueled by an efficient offense. ISU actually lost 8 of 10 at one point late in the Missouri Valley season, but they have rediscovered their early-season form. They shoot 48.4% from the field – extremely high – which is 11 percentage points higher than Troy typically allows (Troy’s opponents shot just 37.4%)​. That tells the story: Illinois State is an offensively polished team with great ball movement and shooting. They average 76.9 PPG over their last 10​. Guard Shannon Dowell leads with 17.1 PPG and 5.3 RPG​, while sharpshooter Elyce Knudsen has been on fire from deep (3.6 made 3’s per game over the last 10)​. Knudsen set a program record with 10 threes in a Great 8 win vs Bowling Green. The Redbirds can also score inside with forward DeAnna Wilson and wing Paige Robinson (both around 10–12 PPG). Defensively, ISU is average, allowing 70 PPG in the WNIT, but they rely on out-scoring opponents.

 

Troy (23–13) brings a contrasting style. The Trojans out of the Sun Belt are fast-paced, physical, and relentless on the boards. Over their last 10 games, Troy is averaging a whopping 83.7 PPG and grabbing 45.7 RPG​. They advanced with an 85–77 overtime win over Lipscomb in the quarterfinal (their second OT win of the tourney). Troy has five players who scored in double figures in that OT game​, epitomizing their balanced attack. Forward Zay Dyer is the top scorer (13.8 PPG)​, and she teams with center Tamiah Blackmon to patrol the paint. The Trojans lead the nation in rebounds per game (around 47 RPG) and block 7 shots per game in the WNIT – an incredible rim protection stat​. Guard Emani Jenkins (12 PPG) and wing Tina Stephens provide outside shooting and slashing. Troy’s weakness is consistency: they can go on huge runs but also defensive lapses. They allow 75.0 PPG over the last 10​, often because their high tempo gives opponents more possessions. Notably, Troy forces 16.9 turnovers per game and is 10-2 when winning the turnover battle​.

 

Betting Odds & Best Bet: Illinois State likely enters as a slight favorite (around -3 given home court and their pedigree). This game is a true clash of styles: ISU’s efficient halfcourt offense vs Troy’s high-octane, scrambling attack. The outcome may hinge on pace – if the score climbs into the 80s, that favors Troy; if it’s in the 60s or low 70s, ISU likely is executing their game plan. Illinois State has handled fast teams already (they beat a run-and-gun Bowling Green team by shooting over 50%). At home, with a big crowd, the Redbirds should dictate tempo enough. Best Bet: Illinois State -3 to win and cover in a close, possibly high-scoring game. ISU’s experience (fourth WNIT semifinal in program history) and shooting efficiency should win out against Troy’s frenetic style. Expect a tight first half, but ISU’s guard play (Dowell and Knudsen) will hit key shots to pull away late. Over/Under: Likely set high – possibly around 158–160 – reflecting both teams’ scoring prowess. It’s hard to take an under with these trends: Illinois St has topped 75 points in 3 of 4 WNIT games, and Troy regularly pushes games into the 80s. Troy games often become shootouts due to their pace. We lean OVER, anticipating a fun, up-and-down affair. Something like 82-78 (160 total) is on the table given the last 10 averages​. If betting the total, be mindful that fatigue (Troy coming off OT, travel) could affect shooting legs late; even so, the over is slightly more attractive.

 

Player Props: Shannon Dowell over 16.5 points – Dowell has been a steady 17+ scorer and will be the go-to for ISU in crunch time​. She’ll need to handle Troy’s physical defense, but at home she should flourish. For Troy, Zay Dyer over 14.5 points is reasonable; ISU’s defense isn’t stout inside, and Dyer will get plenty of touches in the paint. Another interesting prop is Elyce Knudsen threes made – if you find o/u 2.5 threes, consider the over. Knudsen is averaging 3.6 treys over the last 10 and has the green light from deep​, especially if Troy packs the paint. On Troy’s side, Asiah Jones blocks could be appealing (Troy as a team blocks 7 shots on average recently), but individual props for blocks might not be offered. Instead, look at Troy team total rebounds over if available – their season average (50 RPG) often crushes sportsbook lines.

 

Injury/Lineup News: Both teams are at full strength. Illinois State has all five starters and key reserves healthy for this deep run. Troy likewise has its top contributors active; they survived OT without injuries. One factor to watch: Troy’s conditioning vs Illinois State’s shooting. Troy played an overtime game on Monday and now travels to Illinois – legs could be heavy, which might hamper their trademark rebounding and defense. Illinois State has had slightly easier games in the bracket and gets to stay home, so they should be fresher. Also, ISU’s crowd could be a factor – they drew well in previous WNIT rounds​. If Troy falls behind and starts forcing shots, ISU can capitalize. All signs point to an exciting semifinal with plenty of momentum swings.

 

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📊 FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Who will win the WBIT Championship?
A: The Minnesota Golden Gophers are favored to win the 2025 WBIT Championship game against the Belmont Bruins. Minnesota has more high-major experience and is getting star guard Mara Braun back from injury, bolstering an already strong lineup​. Belmont’s balanced team will put up a fight, but Minnesota’s superior depth and scoring make them the likely winner. In fact, ESPN’s predictor gives Minnesota about a 77% chance to win​. Our preview also picks Minnesota to cover the point spread in this matchup, indicating confidence in the Gophers to claim the WBIT title.

 

Q: What are the best bets for Nebraska vs Georgetown?
A: We recommend backing Nebraska -8.5 to cover the spread versus Georgetown​. Nebraska has momentum after a big win in the first round and faces a Georgetown squad that could be missing multiple starters due to illness​. If the Hoyas remain shorthanded (notably without guards Micah Peavy and Jayden Epps), Nebraska’s advantage grows even more. On the total, which is 153.5, lean toward the Over only if Georgetown’s scorers play; otherwise, a slower, grind-it-out Husker win could keep it under. Overall, Nebraska’s balanced offense led by Brice Williams and their edge in depth make them a strong bet to win and cover​.

 

 

Q: What is the point spread and over/under for Butler vs Boise State?
A: For the Butler vs Boise State College Basketball Crown matchup, Boise State is favored by 7.5 points (Boise -7.5) and the over/under is 154.5 points​. The line moved up from an opener of around -5.5, likely because Butler’s leading scorer, Jahmyl Telfort, is out for this tournament​. The O/U of 154.5 reflects expectations of a relatively high-scoring game, given Butler’s offensive pace and defensive struggles. In our analysis, we leaned toward Boise State covering -7.5 and slightly toward the Over 154.5 due to Butler’s tendency to play shootouts​. Always check the latest odds before betting, as they can shift before tip-off.

 

Q: Which teams will advance to the WNIT Championship?
A: Our preview projects the Buffalo Bulls and Illinois State Redbirds to win their semifinals and advance to the WNIT Championship game. Buffalo is playing at home and has a star scorer in Chellia Watson, giving them an edge over Cleveland State in one semi​. Illinois State’s efficient offense and home-court advantage should help them prevail over Troy in the other semi​. Both games should be competitive, but Buffalo’s experience and Illinois State’s shooting and crowd support are the deciding factors in our picks. If those predictions hold, Buffalo and Illinois State would meet for the WNIT title. Keep in mind, these matchups are close – an upset by Cleveland State or Troy is not out of the question in this postseason environment.

 

Q: Who are the key players to watch in these games?
A: Several standout players will likely impact the outcomes:

• Tyson Degenhart, Boise State – Leading scorer for the Broncos (18 PPG) who can exploit Butler’s interior defense.

• Pierre Brooks, Butler – Coming off a 22-point game, he’ll shoulder more offense with Telfort out.

• Brice Williams, Nebraska – Dynamic wing averaging 20+ in the tourney​, a matchup problem for Georgetown.

   

• Malik Mack, Georgetown – Scored 37 points last game​; Georgetown will need another huge outing from him to contend.

   

• Mara Braun, Minnesota – Returning leading scorer for the Gophers​, her shooting could swing the WBIT final.

   

• Jailyn Banks, Belmont – Top scorer who had 25 in the semi​, will try to break Minnesota’s defense.

   

• Chellia Watson, Buffalo – A 20.5 PPG scorer and catalyst for the Bulls​, vital in WNIT semifinal.

   

• Mickayla Perdue, Cleveland State – Horizon POY averaging 20 PPG​; if she heats up, Buffalo could be in trouble.

   

• Shannon Dowell, Illinois State – Leading the Redbirds with efficient scoring (17 PPG)​, key to beating Troy’s press.

   

• Zay Dyer, Troy – Top Trojan scorer inside (13.8 PPG)​, will battle ISU in the paint.

   

Each of these players is a focal point in their team’s game plan. Their performances (or any off nights) will heavily influence who covers the spread and wins outright in each matchup.