College Basketball Crown 2nd Round: UCF vs Cincinnati
Spread: Cincinnati -6.5 | Total: 154.5
Cincinnati is listed as a 6.5-point favorite with the total sitting at 154.5 as they face off against UCF in the College Basketball Crown quarterfinals in Las Vegas — a matchup with revenge on the Knights’ mind and momentum on the Bearcats’ side.
Cincinnati Outlook & Betting Edge
The Bearcats (19-15) come into this game riding high after a dominant 83-61 win over DePaul, showcasing an offense that clicked from start to finish. Six players hit double digits in scoring, with Dillon Mitchell posting 15 points and seven boards. Cincinnati shot just under 50% from the floor and nearly 43% from beyond the arc, suggesting their rhythm is peaking at the right time.
While this tournament doesn’t carry the prestige of March Madness, Cincinnati is approaching it with intensity and urgency. Their previous 93-83 win over UCF earlier this season adds another layer of confidence. With their size, depth, and scoring balance, the Bearcats have the tools to control tempo and grind out another convincing win.
UCF Outlook & Challenges
The Knights (18-16) survived a thriller in the opening round, edging Oregon State 76-75 thanks to late-game heroics from Moustapha Thiam. While their resilience is commendable, the loss of Keyshawn Hall — their leading scorer who entered the transfer portal — leaves a massive void offensively. Coach Johnny Dawkins leaned on a short rotation, using just eight players, and that could come back to haunt UCF against a deeper Cincinnati squad.
Despite the roster shakeup, UCF still saw four players reach double figures, including a strong double-double from Tyler Hendricks. However, the physical toll of a hard-fought win and their limited bench depth could make it difficult to keep pace for 40 minutes.
Prediction & Betting Take
Cincinnati has already proven they can handle UCF, and with the Knights missing key firepower and running a thin rotation, it’s hard to envision a different outcome this time. Look for the Bearcats to impose their will, wear down the Knights, and cover the spread.
Best Bet: Cincinnati -6.5
Over/Under Lean: Slight lean under 154.5 given UCF’s offensive limitations.
Final Score Prediction: Cincinnati 80, UCF 69
The Bearcats’ depth and offensive efficiency should carry them into the semifinal round with another solid win.
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
