Tulane (19-14) vs USC (16-17)
- When: Apr 1 2025, 11:00 PM
- Where: MGM Grand Garden Arena, Las Vegas, NV, USA
- Where to watch: Fox Sports 1
College Basketball Crown First Round: Utah vs Butler
Spread: USC -8.0 | Total: 159.0
USC enters Tuesday night’s College Basketball Crown tournament opener in Las Vegas as an 8-point favorite over a Tulane squad facing roster instability at the worst possible time. The total for this matchup is set at 159.0, indicating oddsmakers are expecting a high-paced, high-scoring battle.
Tulane Green Wave Outlook
The Green Wave (19-14) roll into Vegas surrounded by transfer portal turbulence. Already without two key contributors—Kaleb Banks (14.7 PPG, 6.7 RPG) and Kam Williams (9.3 PPG)—Tulane will rely heavily on standout guard Rowan Brumbaugh, who’s averaging 15.7 points, 4.8 assists, and 1.5 steals. However, even Brumbaugh’s future with the program is uncertain as he openly evaluates transfer options post-season.
Despite the off-court distractions, Tulane has won eight of its last 12 games and came up just short against Memphis in the AAC tournament semifinals, falling 78-77. Offensively, they can score with anyone, but defensive consistency remains an issue. Their performance in Vegas will likely depend on whether Brumbaugh can carry the load against a more athletic USC squad.
USC Trojans Outlook
USC (16-17) hasn’t had the smoothest ride in its first season in the Big Ten, losing nine of its last 12 games. Still, they have firepower and depth, and they’ve avoided any major player losses to the portal so far. Desmond Claude leads the team at 16.3 points per game, while Wesley Yates III adds 14.1. Both are expected to return next season, giving the Trojans some needed continuity heading into this game.
Head coach Eric Musselman has emphasized culture-building in year one, and while the results haven’t been stellar, USC has the type of roster that can out-talent a shorthanded Tulane lineup. Look for them to push the pace and attack Tulane’s weakened interior early and often.
Betting Prediction
With Tulane short two key pieces and facing question marks surrounding leadership and locker room cohesion, USC looks poised to control this one. The Trojans have more size, more scoring options, and less drama heading into this tournament matchup.
Pick: USC -8
Total: Lean Over 159.0
Score Prediction: USC 87, Tulane 75
USC’s offensive depth and the instability on Tulane’s end make the Trojans the stronger side ATS, while the high total is justified given both teams’ tempo and scoring tendencies. Expect a fast-paced, entertaining game with USC pulling away in the second half.
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
