- This page contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Tennessee (5-0) vs Houston (5-0)
- When: Nov 25 2025, 6:00 PM
- Where: MGM Grand Garden Arena, Las Vegas, NV, USA
- Where to watch: TNT
(17) Tennessee vs (3) Houston Preview & Prediction
Spread: Houston -2.5
Moneyline: Houston (-145)
Total: 134.5
Houston Cougars Betting Breakdown
Houston got the win on Monday, but let’s be honest, it looked nothing like the defensive powerhouse that stormed to the Final Four eight months ago. Surviving Syracuse 78-74 in overtime was more of an escape than a statement. The Orange ripped off an 11-0 run late in regulation, forcing Houston to scramble just to stay afloat.
Kelvin Sampson did not sugarcoat it. He reminded everyone that this squad is still far from matching last year’s defensive pedigree. The Cougars were sloppy, took poor angles, and repeatedly allowed Syracuse back into the game.
But Houston still had the veteran poise needed to close. Emanuel Sharp and Milos Uzan dropped 26 each and scored every Cougars point in overtime. Sharp buried a turnaround jumper and a three to create separation, while Uzan iced it with free throws. Winning ugly counts the same in the standings, and this team has enough winning DNA to survive chaos.
For Tuesday, Houston needs to tighten rotations, stop fouling, and reestablish its usual defensive standard. If they do that, the edge shifts sharply in their favor.
Tennessee Volunteers Betting Breakdown
Tennessee rolled into Tuesday like it never left. The Vols absolutely hammered Rutgers 85-60, dropping a 56-30 bomb on them by halftime. Ja’Kobi Gillespie caught fire with 32 points and six triples, while freshman Nate Ament added 20 in a smooth, decisive performance.
This was miles away from the beating Tennessee suffered when these teams met in the Elite Eight. Back then, the Vols mustered only 15 first-half points and shot 29 percent for the game. Rick Barnes knows that Tuesday’s matchup will be physical, slower paced, and tougher to score in.
Still, Tennessee’s offense looks far more dynamic than it did last spring. Gillespie’s growth at point guard has been massive, and if he handles Houston’s pressure, the Vols have more than enough firepower to trade blows.
Defense remains the key. Tennessee’s shooters were in rhythm Monday, but Houston’s physicality will demand cleaner screens, tougher cuts and better ball security.
Prediction & Betting Angle
Houston has the small edge on paper, and the number at 2.5 reflects that. Tennessee’s shooting can keep this close, but Houston’s guards have been through more high-pressure environments and should settle into a more disciplined defensive effort after Monday’s wake-up call.
Final Score: Houston 68, Tennessee 63
Lean: Houston -2.5
Total: Under 134.5
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
