UCF (20-16) vs Nebraska (20-14)
- When: Apr 6 2025, 5:30 PM
- Where: T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada
- Where to watch: FOX
CBC Championship Betting Preview & Expert Predictions
Line: Nebraska -3.5 | Total: 158.5
Nebraska is listed as a 3.5-point favorite, with the total sitting at 158.5 for Sunday’s College Basketball Crown championship showdown in Las Vegas, where both teams look to end their season on a high note—and take home some serious NIL cash.
UCF Knights Preview:
UCF (20-16) rides into the title game with serious momentum, led by red-hot senior guard Darius Johnson. He’s absolutely torched the tournament, averaging 29.3 points across three games and dropping a career-high 42 points in Saturday’s thrilling 104-98 OT win against Villanova. Two nights earlier, Johnson lit up Cincinnati for 31.
This team has fully embraced its underdog role, and Johnson’s confidence is sky-high. He drained a step-back three to send Saturday’s game into overtime, then followed it up with 10 points in the extra frame. The Knights have scored 88 or more in three straight tournament games and are firing on all cylinders offensively.
UCF will look to push the pace again, especially with Johnson leading the charge. If he gets going early, Nebraska’s defense could be in trouble trying to keep up with the Knights’ explosive tempo.
Nebraska Cornhuskers Preview:
Nebraska (20-14) comes in hot as well after shooting the lights out in a 79-69 semifinal win over Boise State. The Huskers drained a season-high 12 threes at a ridiculous 63.2% clip, showing they can light it up when they find rhythm. Senior Juwan Gary went a perfect 4-for-4 from deep and led the way with 21 points and 9 boards, continuing his strong leadership in this postseason run.
Brice Williams, who cooled off with 14 points in the semis, was unstoppable in the earlier rounds with 30 and 28-point efforts. If he finds his shot again, Nebraska could have too many offensive weapons for UCF to keep up.
The Cornhuskers had a rough ending to the regular season, losing five straight, but the Crown tournament has served as a reset. With back-to-back solid wins and their confidence soaring, Nebraska is motivated to walk away with the $300,000 NIL prize and close the season strong.
Betting Prediction:
Both teams are clicking offensively, but Nebraska’s overall depth and inside-out scoring threat gives them a slight edge. UCF has been reliant on Darius Johnson’s heroics, and while he’s been phenomenal, Nebraska has more firepower and balance. Expect a competitive, high-scoring battle, but the Cornhuskers should take control in the second half.
Final Score Prediction: Nebraska 84, UCF 77
Best Bets:
ATS Picks: Nebraska -3.5
Total Lean: Over 158.5
Brice Williams Over 21.5 Points
Darius Johnson Over 23.5 Points
This one has the potential to be an entertaining shootout to close the tournament, but the Cornhuskers’ offensive efficiency and experience give them the edge to lift the trophy.
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
