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UConn Huskies vs Florida Gators Betting Preview
UConn Huskies (8-1) meet the Florida Gators (5-3) in the Jimmy V Classic at Madison Square Garden. The Huskies seek payback after last March’s 77-75 NCAA Tournament loss to Florida, while the Gators look to capitalize on Thomas Haugh’s surge and balanced scoring in a high-profile matchup.
Line Movement and Odds
- UConn Huskies Spread: -4.5
- Florida Gators Spread: +4.5
- Total: 146.0
Oddsmakers list UConn as a 4.5-point favorite with totals around 146 for this neutral-site clash. See full NCAA Basketball odds for market movement.
Matchup Breakdown
UConn Huskies Outlook
UConn enters on a four-game win streak, including an 83-59 win over East Texas A&M. Alex Karaban scored 12 points, while freshman Eric Reibe added 13 points, six rebounds, and three blocks starting in place of Tarris Reed Jr. (ankle). Five-star recruit Braylon Mullins has provided a spark since returning, with 17 points at Kansas and 10 more last Friday. Jaylin Stewart contributed nine points and seven rebounds, showing depth across the roster.
Florida Gators Outlook
Florida (5-3) dropped a tight 67-66 game to No. 4 Duke in the ACC/SEC Challenge. Junior forward Thomas Haugh was outstanding with 24 points and leads the team at 18.6 points per game. Alex Condon (15.1 ppg), Boogie Fland (12.5), Rueben Chinyelu (10.3), and Urban Klavzar (10.0) round out a balanced scoring attack. The Gators are looking to rebound after two losses in their last three games.
Key Matchup / Path to Victory
UConn’s frontcourt health versus Florida’s star forward Thomas Haugh is the key storyline. If Reed Jr. returns, the Huskies gain rim protection and rebounding strength. Mullins’ offensive spark could tilt momentum for UConn, while Florida needs Haugh and Condon to control tempo and scoring efficiency.
Injuries / Availability
UConn: Tarris Reed Jr. (ankle) questionable.
Florida: Full roster available.
Betting Trends
- UConn is 8-1 overall, riding a four-game win streak.
- Florida is 5-3 overall, with two losses in its last three games.
- UConn is favored by 4.5 points; total set at 146.
Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Final Score: UConn 76, Florida 71
- Pick: UConn -4.5. The Huskies’ depth and defensive edge give them the advantage.
- Total: Under 146. Florida’s recent close-game profile suggests a modest scoring pace.
Expect a competitive game with UConn pulling away late through rebounding and defensive execution.
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