The Purdue Boilermakers (34-4) and UConn Huskies (36-3) will clash on Monday, April 8 at 9:20 PM ET for the Men’s Basketball National Championship. ZenSports Tennessee sportsbook showcases the Huskies with a point spread at -6.5 (-117).
When: April 8, 2024 at 9:20 PM ET
Where: State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona
Watch: TBS
Purdue Boilermakers Preview
The Boilermakers powered their way to the National Championship game with their recent 63-50 victory over the NC State Wolfpack. Zach Edey finished with 20 points and 12 rebounds, with the Wolfpack having no answer for him down low.
Edey has been a dynamic force all season and is a huge reason why they are in the National Championship game. He averaged 24.9 points, shot 62.5 percent from the field, and grabbed 12.2 rebounds a game to put his mark on each game.
Their offense ranks 14th in the nation as they have averaged 82.9 points per game. Their efficiency is even better with a rating at 120.0, which ranked fourth overall. During the tournament, they have averaged 79.8 points each matchup.
Defensively they are solid, as they have allowed opposing teams to average 68.8 points per game. They are efficient on this end as well, with a rating of 99.6 and rank 67th in the nation. In their five games this tournament, they have kept teams to 60.2 points per game.
UConn Huskies Preview
The Huskies arguably look better on paper and have established the best resume heading into this matchup. Their most recent victory was an 86-72 battle over the Alabama Crimson Tide, which was only a four point game after the first half. Stephon Castle led with 21 points to help secure the win.
Tristen Newton leads their offense with 14.9 points and 6.2 assists per game. Newton has the ability to make or break this game for them, as his versatility on both ends of the court will be crucial. He also makes 80.2 percent of his shots from the foul line, which will be key late in the game.
The Huskies average 81.6 points a game and rank 21st overall. Their efficiency ranks the best of them all with a rating of 123.3. As you can see, their offense is one of the more robust units and has consistently been great all season.
On defense, they allow opponents to put up 63.5 points a game and rank 10th. Their efficiency in getting key stops ranks 14th with a rating of 96.0. They have averaged 82.2 points a game and allowed 57.2 points from opposing teams this tournament.
Betting Odds
ZenSports Tennessee sportsbook offers you the best odds for the National Championship game. Currently, the UConn Huskies are favored, with market analysis suggesting they have a 54.3 percent chance at success.
Purdue Boilermakers: +236
Spread: +6.5 (-109)
UConn Huskies: -319
Spread: -6.5 (-117)
Total Points: Over 145.5 (-115), Under 145.5 (-110)
Photo Credit: © Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports