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Washington Huskies vs Denver Pioneers Betting Preview
The Washington Huskies return to Alaska Airlines Arena on Thursday, November 6, to host the Denver Pioneers after a dominant 94-50 opening win. Washington looked sharper, faster and more unselfish than last season, while Denver comes in 0-1 after an 84-73 loss to Seattle. Odds and market movement are available on the college basketball picks and odds page.
Line Movement and Odds
Washington opened as a heavy home favorite around -27.5 with a total near 155.5. Early betting support leans toward Washington’s size and depth, while the total has seen slight hesitation given Denver’s offensive limitations and Washington’s rebounding control.
Matchup Breakdown
Washington Outlook
Washington assisted on 21 of 30 field goals in its opener and held a 53-32 rebounding edge. Freshman Hannes Steinbach scored 21 points on 9-of-11 shooting with seven rebounds and six assists, showing point-forward ability at 6-foot-11. JJ Mandaquit added eight assists, Bryson Tucker had a double-double, and the bench contributed 36 points despite an eight-man rotation. Washington played with pace, defended physically and dominated second-chance opportunities.
Denver Outlook
Denver competed offensively in its opener but allowed 84 points and struggled defensively in transition. Jeremiah Burke led with 21 points and nine rebounds in 40 minutes, while Carson Johnson and Logan Kinsey added scoring support. The Pioneers moved efficiently in the half-court but lacked rim protection and allowed 50 percent shooting. Against a bigger roster on the road, maintaining pace and physicality on the glass becomes critical.
Key Matchup
The battle is on the glass and in tempo control. Washington wants to run off misses, crash for second chances and create mismatches through Steinbach’s size and passing. Denver must slow possessions, force half-court sets and keep Washington to one shot. If the Huskies control rebounds and spacing, their talent gap widens quickly.
Injury Report
Washington has no major injuries reported.
Denver also enters healthy with no notable absences.
Environment
Alaska Airlines Arena provides a strong home advantage with early-season energy, tight shooting backgrounds and a loud student section. Denver travels across time zones and plays its second straight road game. Washington is rested, longer at nearly every position and comfortable dictating pace on its home floor.
Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Final Score: Washington 92, Denver 62
• Washington -27.5
• Under 155.5
Washington’s size, rebounding and ball movement should overwhelm Denver across 40 minutes. If the Huskies limit turnovers and control the glass, they pull away early. Denver may struggle to score efficiently in the half court, making the under viable if Washington controls tempo late.
Handicappers and Service Plays
Bettors looking for expert opinions on this matchup can compare results on the best handicappers leaderboard. Premium college basketball selections and single-game buys are available through the buy picks page, and overall expert performance across all sports can be found in the main best handicappers section. It’s a useful way to see who is backing Washington to cover or taking Denver plus the points.


