Can the Badgers extend their seven-game winning streak on Tuesday?
Fresh off an 84-69 win over the USC Trojans, the No. 18 Wisconsin Badgers are set to face off against the UCLA Bruins on Tuesday evening, with tip-off set for 8:30 p.m. at the Pauley Pavillion.
The Badgers, standing at 15-3, are riding a seven-game winning streak, where their defense has improved, while players such as Steven Crowl have started to get going, leading the team back inside the Top 25.
Meanwhile, the Bruins have started the year 12-6, most recently snapping a four-game losing streak in the Big Ten with a strong 94-70 blowout win over Iowa.
What are all of the odds ahead of the game?
Odds(via FanDuel)
Prediction
Just off the bat, I’m honestly surprised Wisconsin is an underdog in this game. They’ve shown a strong sense of getting a rhythm offensively, both in faster-paced games, as well as slugfests like Tuesday’s match is projected to be.
I think UCLA is better than their 12-6 record suggests, as they’re clearly still finding out how to gel together as a team, while effort and physicality issues have been a problem, according to head coach Mick Cronin.
Outside of an ugly game against Michigan where turnovers proved costly, the Bruins have put together a strong year defensively thus far, which should give the Badgers a test.
But, UCLA is prone to giving up free throws, allowing at least 21 free throws in each of their last five games. That could be a huge factor in a slower-paced game, especially given how elite Wisconsin has been at the free-throw line this season.
The Badgers could have trouble with forward Tyler Bilodeau, who provides a bit of a mismatch as a stretch-four/five, which Wisconsin has had trouble with at times this season.
Three-point shooting could be a factor as well in this one for the Badgers. If they’re able to be efficient, they may run away in the one as the Bruins aren’t as strong of a shooting team. Wisconsin shoots at a high volume and has been up and down for a good portion of the season with their efficiency. If they’re on, this one could get away from UCLA.
Nonetheless, this one should be a fun one, even if it’s at the latest tip-off that Wisconsin has seen in a while, especially for a conference game.
My prediction: Wisconsin +3.5
Odds/lines subject to change. T&Cs apply. See fanduel.com/sportsbook for details.