Villanova (20-14) vs USC (17-17)
- When: Apr 3 2025, 9:30 PM
- Where: MGM Grand Garden Arena, Las Vegas, NV
- Where to watch: Fox Sports 1
College Basketball Crown 2nd Round: Villanova vs USC
Spread: Villanova -5.5 | Total: 152.0
Villanova enters Thursday night’s College Basketball Crown quarterfinals in Las Vegas as a 5.5-point favorite, with the total set at 152.0, when they face off against USC in a battle between two squads seizing fresh opportunities late in the season.
Villanova Outlook & Betting Angle
The Wildcats (20-14) are riding high after a commanding 85-64 victory over Colorado in the opening round, a game that not only secured interim coach Mike Nardi’s first career win but also saw veteran forward Eric Dixon break the program’s all-time scoring record. Dixon poured in 22 points and continues to be the offensive engine, averaging 23.0 points per contest.
Villanova has looked rejuvenated with the coaching change and is playing inspired basketball, especially on the defensive end. The Wildcats’ ability to control tempo and defend the perimeter gives them a significant edge against inconsistent offenses, like USC’s. With momentum and motivation on their side, they’re a solid pick to cover the spread in this one.
Expect Wooga Poplar, Villanova’s second-leading scorer at 14.7 points per game, to continue producing after a 24-point outburst against Colorado. The Wildcats have both the firepower and experience to close out tight matchups and cover.
USC Outlook & Betting Perspective
The Trojans (17-17) delivered their most complete performance of the season on Tuesday, thrashing Tulane 89-60 in a game that saw unheralded players step up. With top scorers Wesley Yates III and Chibuzo Agbo sidelined, USC turned to senior leadership — and it paid off. Rashaun Agee exploded for 27 points on 10-of-12 shooting, and Clark Slajchert added 10 in just his second double-digit effort of the season.
USC held Tulane to just 24 first-half points — their best defensive half all season — and showed an intensity rarely seen during their .500 campaign. The big question is whether they can maintain that level of play against a disciplined, tournament-savvy Villanova squad. While their offensive ceiling was on full display, consistency remains a concern.
Prediction & Best Bets
Villanova’s recent form, veteran presence, and superior offensive structure give them the upper hand here. Expect the Wildcats to win by double digits, covering the 5.5-point spread. The total sitting at 152.0 seems a bit high considering both teams’ defensive uptick — especially if USC cools off from their Tuesday shooting spree — so a slight lean to the under is also justified.
Final Score Prediction: Villanova 78, USC 68
Best Bets: Villanova -5.5, Under 152.0
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
