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Xavier Musketeers vs Cincinnati Bearcats Betting Preview
The Xavier Musketeers host the Cincinnati Bearcats in the Crosstown Shootout, one of college basketball’s fiercest rivalries. Xavier has dominated recent meetings, winning 13 of the last 18, while Cincinnati looks to break a 10-game losing streak at the Cintas Center. Bettors must weigh Xavier’s home dominance and three-point shooting against Cincinnati’s rebounding and balanced scoring.
Line Movement and Odds
- Cincinnati Bearcats Spread: +1.5 (-108)
- Xavier Musketeers Spread: -1.5 (-118)
- Cincinnati Bearcats MoneyLine: +110
- Xavier Musketeers MoneyLine: -136
- Total: 145.5 (Over -110, Under -110)
Xavier opened as slight favorites at home. See full NCAA Basketball odds for market movement.
Matchup Breakdown
Cincinnati Bearcats Outlook
Cincinnati defeated Tarleton State 76-58 behind Day Day Thomas’ 19 points and Kerr Kriisa’s 20. Baba Miller returned from injury with 13 points and 11 rebounds, leading the team with 14.2 points and 10.2 rebounds per game. The Bearcats average 75.5 points and 38.5 rebounds per game, while hitting 9.2 threes per contest. Their depth and perimeter shooting give them a chance to upset Xavier.
Xavier Musketeers Outlook
Xavier topped Saint Francis 96-74 with Roddie Anderson III scoring 28 points and Tre Carroll adding 21. The Musketeers have won three straight and are 6-1 at home. They average 78.7 points per game and make 10.9 threes per contest, ranking among the nation’s best. With 18.4 assists per game, Xavier’s ball movement fuels their offense. Four players average double figures, making them a balanced threat.
Key Matchup / Path to Victory
Cincinnati’s rebounding vs Xavier’s perimeter shooting. The Bearcats must control the boards and limit turnovers, while Xavier needs Carroll and Anderson to continue their hot shooting. Rivalry intensity will play a major role.
Injuries / Availability
Cincinnati: Baba Miller returned from hip injury and is expected to play.
Xavier: No major injuries reported, with Carroll and Anderson leading the offense.
Betting Trends
- Cincinnati is 6-2 overall this season.
- Cincinnati averages 75.5 points and 38.5 rebounds per game.
- Xavier is 6-3 overall and 6-1 at home.
- Xavier averages 78.7 points and 10.9 threes per game.
Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Final Score: Xavier 79, Cincinnati 76
- Xavier -1.5 (-118) → Best Bet. Musketeers’ home dominance and three-point shooting suggest they cover.
- Over 145.5 (-110) → Total. Our model projects 155 points, leaning over given both teams’ offensive pace.
Xavier’s perimeter shooting and home-court advantage should secure the win, while Cincinnati’s rebounding keeps it close. Expect a high-scoring rivalry game trending over the total.
Handicappers and Service Plays
For sharper betting insights, explore our Best Handicappers, track performance streaks on the Leaderboard, and review premium selections in Buy Picks. These resources provide expert context to refine your wagering strategy.


