College Basketball Predictions and Picks: Boston University vs UCLA

The Boston University Terriers head to UCLA to face the Bruins in an early non-conference matchup. The Bruins are favored heavily, but this could be a closer game than expected as the Terriers bring experience and depth to face a restructured UCLA team under Coach Mick Cronin.

Here’s a preview of the matchup with predictions and picks based on current insights and early-season performance.

Boston University vs UCLA Game Details

Date: Monday, November 11, 2024
Time: 10:00 PM ET
Broadcast: Big Ten Network
Location: Pauley Pavilion, Los Angeles, California
Spread: UCLA -26.5 | Total: 133.5

Team Overview and Season Performance

Boston University Terriers (0-2)

Depth and Consistency: Boston University lost its top scorer, Walter Whyte, but retains most of its roster from last season.

Despite Whyte’s departure, this continuity has allowed the Terriers to develop chemistry and build on a foundation that keeps them competitive.

Returning Key Players: The Terriers feature a group of seasoned sophomores who gained valuable experience last season.

They rely on Nik Novelly in the frontcourt, who recently returned from an injury, while freshman Asar Abdullah shows promise and potential for added depth.

Defensive Strategy: Expect the Terriers to use their size to defend against UCLA’s attacks, particularly inside the paint. Their lineup flexibility could keep them competitive, especially against a UCLA team that’s integrating new starters.

UCLA Bruins (1-1)

Offensive and Defensive Adjustments: UCLA enters this season after a challenging previous year. With a young core and significant roster turnover, the Bruins are looking to solidify their rotation.

One of the biggest concerns for Coach Cronin is finding a replacement for Adem Bona, who provided a strong presence in the post last season.

Interior Weakness: UCLA may face challenges defensively, especially with freshman Aday Mara still adjusting. With the Bruins potentially undersized in the paint, Boston University may find success by driving to the basket and creating scoring chances.

Boston University vs UCLA: Key Matchup Insights

Point Spread Consideration: At 26.5 points, the spread is substantial. UCLA’s young roster is still establishing its rhythm, while Boston University’s experienced lineup and solid defense suggest they could keep the game competitive.

Boston University’s Offensive Potential: While BU is unlikely to win outright, their lineup depth and offensive setup could allow them to score consistently, covering the spread against a UCLA team that may struggle defensively.

Boston University vs UCLA Prediction

Spread Pick: Boston University +26.5. The Terriers’ veteran roster and UCLA’s adjustments make BU likely to cover, even if UCLA secures the win.

Total Points: Under 133.5, expect this matchup to be low- to medium-scoring, with Boston University focusing on defense and UCLA still solidifying its lineup. Betting trends suggest a possible lean toward the under, given both teams’ evolving dynamics.

Boston University vs UCLA Prediction: Boston University +26.5

Conclusion

The Boston University Terriers and UCLA Bruins game offers an interesting betting angle, as Boston’s depth may keep them within range of the large spread.

UCLA’s defense is a work in progress, so Boston has a good chance to cover the spread. Bettors should consider Boston University +26.5 in this matchup, while waiting for the total line for a potential under play.

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