North Carolina (1-0) at Kansas (1-0)
- When: Nov 8 2024, 7:00 PM
- Where: Allen Fieldhouse, Lawrence, KS, USA
- Where to watch: ESPN2
Game Odds, Spread, Moneyline & Total
North Carolina (#9) @ Kansas (#1)
Moneyline
North Carolina (#9) +270
Kansas (#1) -340
North Carolina (#9) @ Kansas (#1)
Point Spread
North Carolina (#9) 7.5 (-110)
Kansas (#1) -7.5 (-110)
North Carolina (#9) @ Kansas (#1)
Total
Over 160 (-110)
Under 160 (-110)
- Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
Team Stats
| North Carolina | Kansas | |
| 1-0 | Record | 1-0 |
| – | Away & Home | 1-0 |
| W1 | Streak | W1 |
Last Matchup:
KU 72-69, April 4th, 2022
Game Preview
Top-ranked Kansas hosts No. 9 North Carolina on Friday night in a marquee early-season showdown at Allen Fieldhouse—a rematch of the 2022 NCAA Championship game where Kansas rallied from a 15-point halftime deficit to win 72-69.
These two basketball powerhouses are deadlocked at 6-6 in their all-time series, with Kansas winning the last four matchups. Remarkably, this is only their second meeting on a campus court since 1960.
Kansas (1-0) opened the season strong with an 87-57 victory over Howard. Graduate transfer guard Zeke Mayo led the Jayhawks with 19 points, while preseason All-American center Hunter Dickinson added 16 points and six rebounds in his return from injury. Coach Bill Self praised Mayo’s aggressiveness, calling him "a weapon" from beyond the arc.
The Jayhawks showcased depth and efficiency, with ten players scoring and shooting 60.4% from the field, including 11-of-22 from three-point range. Defensively, they limited Howard to 37.9% shooting and forced 17 turnovers.
On the other hand, North Carolina (1-0) faced a tougher-than-expected challenge from Elon, pulling away late for a 90-76 win after a 21-5 run to close the game. The Tar Heels briefly trailed with under seven minutes left, raising concerns about their consistency. Coach Hubert Davis viewed the close call as a valuable learning experience.
All-American guard R.J. Davis led UNC with 24 points, seven assists, and seven rebounds despite struggling with his shot. Freshman guard Elliot Cadeau contributed 17 points and eight assists, providing a spark off the bench.
Betting Outlook:
This clash offers intriguing opportunities for bettors. Kansas appears to be in midseason form, displaying depth and sharp shooting, which could make them favorites against the spread, especially at home where they’re traditionally strong.
North Carolina’s shaky performance against Elon might raise doubts about their ability to keep pace with the Jayhawks. However, with star players like R.J. Davis and a desire to avenge last year’s championship loss, the Tar Heels shouldn’t be underestimated.
Given both teams’ offensive capabilities and history, the over might be an appealing play. Bettors should also consider Kansas’s recent dominance in the series and their home-court advantage when making their picks.
Key Points:
– Kansas’s Depth and Efficiency: Strong shooting and a deep bench could give them the edge.
– North Carolina’s Resilience: Despite early struggles, they have the talent to compete.
– Historical Context: Kansas has won the last four meetings, which might influence betting trends.
– Home-Court Advantage: Allen Fieldhouse is a tough environment for visitors.
This early-season showdown is not just a rematch but a potential preview of March Madness excitement, offering plenty of angles for those looking to wager on a high-stakes college basketball battle.
NCAA Basketball Parlay Picks & Predictions
Final Score: Kansas 85-80
Expert Pick: North Carolina +7½ & Over 160
A $100 Parlay Bet will return $364
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
