Idaho State vs UCLA: Wednesday CBB Picks and Predictions

The Idaho State Bengals travel to Pauley Pavilion to take on the UCLA Bruins in an early-season non-conference matchup.

Both teams have had slow starts offensively, making this game an intriguing opportunity for bettors focusing on total points. Here’s a detailed analysis, including predictions and picks, for this contest.

Idaho State vs UCLA Game Details

Date: Wednesday, November 20, 2024
Time: 11:00 PM ET / 8:00 PM PT
Broadcast: Big Ten Network
Location: Pauley Pavilion, Los Angeles, California
Spread: UCLA -25.5 | Total: 132.5

Team Overview and Season Performance

Idaho State (2-3)

Slow Tempo and Rebounding Strength: Idaho State plays at one of the slowest paces in NCAA basketball, ranking 327th out of 364 teams in adjusted tempo. However, they excel in rebounding, particularly on the offensive glass, giving them additional scoring opportunities in low-possession games.

Three-Point Struggles: Idaho State has been one of the worst three-point shooting teams in the country, hitting just 23.3% from beyond the arc, ranking 341st in Division I basketball.

Defensive Effort: The Bengals compensate for their offensive inefficiencies with solid defensive play, allowing opponents to shoot just 28.2% from three-point range.

UCLA Bruins (3-1)

Defensive Prowess: The Bruins have allowed just 51.7 points per game this season, holding three of their four opponents to under 50 points. Their defense against the three-point shot has been exceptional, limiting opponents to 27.7% shooting from beyond the arc.

Offensive Struggles: UCLA has also struggled from three-point range, shooting just 26.5% in their first four games, ranking 308th nationally. Their offensive tempo is slow, ranking 311th in adjusted tempo, aligning with Idaho State’s methodical style.

Control Through Defense: UCLA’s ability to dominate on the defensive end and limit possessions should give them a significant edge in controlling the game.

Key Matchup Insights

Low Scoring Potential: Both teams rank among the bottom in three-point shooting and play at extremely slow paces, suggesting a low-scoring affair.

Idaho State’s rebounding ability might keep them competitive in stretches but isn’t likely to offset UCLA’s defensive dominance.

Defensive Showdown: With both teams excelling at defending the three-point line and neither possessing explosive offensive capabilities, expect a game that emphasizes half-court sets and long possessions.

Idaho State vs UCLA Prediction

Spread Pick: Lean Idaho State +25.5
The Bengals’ slow tempo and rebounding strengths might help them stay within the large spread. However, UCLA’s superior talent and defensive control could still make covering the spread challenging for Idaho State.

Total Points: Under 132.5
Both teams’ slow pace and poor shooting, coupled with strong defensive efforts, make the under a strong play in this matchup. A low-scoring game is highly probable, with both teams limiting each other’s offensive opportunities.

Conclusion

The Idaho State vs UCLA game is poised to be a defensive battle, with both teams struggling offensively but excelling in slowing down the game.

Bettors should focus on the under 132.5 as the best option, while Idaho State may have a chance to cover the spread due to their tempo and rebounding ability. Watch for a methodical, low-scoring game as UCLA looks to extend its defensive dominance.

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