College Basketball Betting: San Jose State vs. Long Beach State
Game Details WIN
- Matchup: San Jose State vs. Long Beach State
- Location: Henderson, NV (Neutral Court)
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Pick:
- Spread: San Jose State -5.5 (-110)
- OR
- Money Line: San Jose State -134
- Units: 1.0
Analysis
Old conference rivals from the PCAA days square off, but the paths these teams have taken couldn't be more different. San Jose State has dominated this tournament, securing wins over UTEP and UNC-Greensboro, thanks to a suffocating perimeter defense that held those teams to a combined 9-for-37 from beyond the arc. Meanwhile, UCLA transfer guard Will McClendon has been a consistent scoring threat, tallying double digits in four straight games.
Long Beach State, however, has been utterly non-competitive, dropping their first two tournament games by 23 and 26 points. This version of the "Beach" looks lost, making them a strong fade candidate in this matchup.
We jumped on San Jose State early, as the opening line seemed far too low. Our model puts the Spartans at -5, with the money line at -134 representing good value.
While both teams are playing their third game in three days, Long Beach State is in freefall. They've shown zero fight in their prior games and currently rank among the worst teams in college basketball. San Jose State isn’t a powerhouse, but their defensive tenacity and recent form make them a strong play here.
Key Metrics
- Defensive Edge: San Jose State has held opponents to 24.3% from three-point range in this tournament.
- Consistency: Will McClendon is emerging as a reliable scoring option for the Spartans.
- Long Beach Struggles: The Beach has lost their first two games in this event by a combined 49 points and appears unable to compete against even moderate opposition.
Bet Summary
- Spread: San Jose State -5.5 (-110)
- OR
- Money Line: San Jose State -134
Projected Score: San Jose State 73, Long Beach State 63
The Spartans' defensive edge and consistency should see them cover comfortably in a game against a struggling Long Beach State team. If you prefer less risk, the money line at -134 is still a great value, but we’re backing them to win and cover.