Another exciting college basketball betting opportunity is approaching soon as the Rice Owls (7-13) make the trip to Tennessee and take on the Memphis Tigers (15-5) on Wednesday, January 31 at 8:00 PM ET. ZenSports Tennessee sportsbook shows the Tigers as 14.5-point favorites (-114) in this showdown.
When: January 31, 2024 at 8:00 PM ET
Where: FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee
Watch: ESPN+
Rice Owls Preview
The Owls have lost four out of their last five games and are currently stuck in a two-game skid. Their most recent defeat was an 85-83 performance against the Tulsa Golden Hurricane, where the Owls only shot slightly worse to make an impact in the game.
Travis Evee commands their offense with 15.7 points per game and shoots 39.9 percent from the field. Max Fielder is on par with a triple-double each night, averaging 9.8 points, 9.9 rebounds, and 5.4 assists that could make a huge impact for their chances at success.
The Owls put up 73.0 points per game and rank 219th in the nation for their output. They accumulate 15.1 assists each game, which shows slightly better ball movement in comparison to the Tigers. Their efficiency on the offensive end ranks 227th overall with a rating of 104.1.
On defense, they are allowing their opponents to average 75.7 points each game, ranking 286th. This puts them at a disadvantage since they average less points on offense. Their efficiency in getting stops ranks 303rd, with a rating of 107.9.
Memphis Tigers Preview
The Tigers have not looked like themselves lately, as they have lost their last three games and have dropped out of the top 25 rankings when they nearly cracked the top 10. Their most recent defeat was a 97-88 outing against the UAB Blazers, marking their second straight game in allowing over 80 points.
David Jones has been the driving force behind the Tigers’ offense, but he cannot do it alone. So far, he is averaging 21.8 points and 7.0 rebounds a game, while shooting 46.5 percent from the field.
The Tigers are scoring 81.5 points each game, which ranks 32nd in the nation. They must do a better job with their ball movement, as they are averaging 13.4 assists per matchup. Their efficiency on offense ranks 101st, with a rating of 110.8.
They are allowing their opposition to average 75.8 points per game and rank 291st in that category. Their efficiency in stopping teams on this end of the floor ranks 203rd, with a rating of 103.1.
Betting Odds
ZenSports Tennessee sportsbook offers bettors with great college basketball prospects. The Memphis Tigers are favorites to succeed, with market analysis showing they have a 92.4 percent probability of ending their losing streak.
Rice Owls
Spread: +14.5 (-112)
Memphis Tigers
Spread: -14.5 (-114)
Total Points: Over 155.0 (-113), Under 155.0 (-113)
Photo Credit: © Chris Day/The Commercial Appeal / USA TODAY NETWORK
