The number-one overall seed in the 2025 NCAA Tournament will take the floor for the first time as the Auburn Tigers take on the Alabama State Hornets on Thursday, March 20, 2025. Alabama State got a win in the First Four to make it to this stage, but they will have their work cut out for them if they want to pull off one of the great upsets in the history of college basketball here.
At DraftKings Sportsbook, Auburn is a 30.5-point favorite ahead of this matchup between SWAC and SEC opponents. As for the total, that stands at 149.5 points. Here, we break down Alabama State vs Auburn and make our pick for this game in the betting markets, as Auburn is expected to win this game by a large margin.
Can Alabama State Shock the World?
Alabama State trailed for most of their First Four game against St. Francis. But they fought back in the second half and made winning plays down the stretch to advance to the Round of 64. All of the hustle plays in the world might not be enough for the Hornets to advance past this game, though, as Alabama State looks for its second-ever tournament win after getting their first on Tuesday.
Alabama State is very good at turning their opponents over. The problem with that is that most of their opponents were nowhere near as good as Auburn is. As a result, forcing turnovers might not be something the Hornets can rely on in this game, and their struggles shooting the three-point shot could make it tough for them to stay within striking distance in this matchup.
Auburn Looks to Roll As One Seed
Auburn was the top-seed in the SEC tournament, but they were cut down in the semifinals by the Tennessee Volunteers. Bruce Pearl’s team is still one of the favorites to win the NCAA Tournament. But after losing their regular season finale to Alabama and losing to another quality opponent in the SEC tourney, the Tigers will have to overcome some doubts starting with the first round of March Madness.
Fortunately for the Tigers, they will be expected to roll in the opening round of this tournament. Auburn’s offense is tied for 10th in the country in scoring, averaging 83.8 points per game. National Player of the Year contender Johni is at the forefront of their offensive arsenal, averaging 18.9 points per game. Here, Broome is expected to lead Auburn to a blowout win.
Alabama State vs Auburn Prediction
Auburn -30.5 (-110) over Alabama State
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Claim Bonus - Auburn’s offense will be way too much for Alabama State to deal with in this contest.
- Alabama State is a poor three-point shooting team, which will prevent them from staying close in this matchup.
