UConn (15-6) at Marquette (18-3)
- When: Feb 1 2025, 8:00 PM
- Where: Fiserv Forum, Milwaukee, WI, USA
- Where to watch: FOX
UConn vs. Marquette Betting Preview and Predictions
Spread: Marquette -5.5 | Total: 143.5
Two ranked Big East powerhouses collide on Saturday night as No. 25 UConn travels to Milwaukee to take on No. 9 Marquette. The Golden Eagles have been dominant at home, while the Huskies look to build momentum in a tough road environment. With key players stepping up for both teams, this matchup offers strong betting angles on the spread, total, and player props.
Marquette Golden Eagles Betting Analysis
Season Performance:
Marquette (18-3, 9-1 Big East) is tied for first place in the conference alongside St. John’s and has been a force at home, boasting an 11-1 record. They enter this contest on a three-game winning streak, including a gritty 78-69 comeback win over Butler, where they erased a seven-point halftime deficit.
Key Players & Betting Props:
Kam Jones (18.9 PPG): The Golden Eagles’ leading scorer has been efficient, but foul trouble limited his minutes against Butler. Expect a bounce-back game for Jones, who could easily clear Over 18.5 points.
Stevie Mitchell (12.1 PPG, 54 steals): Coming off a career-high 22-point game, Mitchell has averaged 21.5 points over the last two contests. With his recent hot streak, the Over 12.5 points prop is worth considering.
David Joplin (14.6 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 44 3PTM): A crucial stretch shooter, Joplin’s 3-point ability makes him an intriguing bet for Over 2.5 made threes.
Stat Breakdown & Betting Trends:
Marquette thrives when hitting the 70-point mark, going 18-1 when scoring at least 70. If they dictate the pace, they should push this game Over the total.
The Golden Eagles lead the nation in fewest turnovers per game (8.9), which will help them maintain control against a UConn team that can be streaky.
Marquette’s defense forces 10.2 steals per game (5th in the country) and ranks second in turnover margin (+7.1), meaning they will pressure UConn’s guards into mistakes.
UConn Huskies Betting Analysis
Season Performance:
UConn (15-6, 7-3 Big East) enters this game fresh off a 72-61 home win against DePaul, where they overcame an early 14-point deficit. While the Huskies have won three of their last six, their three losses came by a combined 11 points, showing their ability to stay competitive.
Key Players & Betting Props:
Alex Karaban (15.0 PPG): The Huskies’ leading scorer had a disastrous 1-of-14 shooting night against DePaul. A bounce-back game is likely, making Over 14.5 points a good play.
Solo Ball (14.6 PPG): A reliable offensive option, he should continue to get scoring opportunities. Look for Over 4.5 rebounds as a strong prop bet.
Tarris Reed Jr. (7.0 RPG, 1.8 BPG): A shot-blocking presence in the paint, he’s a solid candidate for Over 1.5 blocks.
Stat Breakdown & Betting Trends:
UConn ranks second in the nation in blocks per game (6.8), which could disrupt Marquette’s inside scoring.
The Huskies have struggled from deep, missing their first 10 three-pointers against DePaul before recovering late. Their inconsistency from beyond the arc makes Under 143.5 a viable play.
UConn has won eight of the last 10 meetings with Marquette, including a 3-0 sweep last season.
Final Prediction & Best Bets
Marquette’s defense and home-court advantage should make the difference in this matchup. UConn has been inconsistent, and Marquette’s ability to force turnovers will create scoring opportunities in transition. While UConn will have moments where they keep it close, Marquette’s overall efficiency should lead to a cover.
Best Bets:
Marquette -5.5 (Golden Eagles control the pace and pull away late)
Under 143.5 (UConn’s shooting struggles and Marquette’s defensive pressure keep scoring lower)
Kam Jones Over 18.5 points (Bounce-back scoring performance)
Stevie Mitchell Over 12.5 points (Continued hot streak)
Final Score Prediction: Marquette 74, UConn 64
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
