Colorado Buffaloes vs Villanova Wildcats Prediction – 4/1/2025

The Colorado Buffaloes and the Villanova Wildcats are set to face off on April 1, 2025, at 8:30 p.m. Eastern Time at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. This matchup in the College Basketball Crown tournament brings together two teams with contrasting seasons, each aiming to advance further in postseason play.

Colorado Buffaloes vs. Villanova Wildcats Game Preview

The Villanova Wildcats enter the game with a 19-14 record, including a 4-10 mark in away games. They have been led by forward Eric Dixon, who averages 23.0 points per game with a 45.1% field goal percentage and a 42.2% success rate from three-point range. Guard Wooga Poplar contributes 14.5 points and 6.9 rebounds per game, showcasing versatility on both ends of the court. Villanova's offense averages 73.4 points per game, ranking 193rd nationally, while their defense allows 67.5 points per game, placing them 52nd in the nation.

On the other hand, the Colorado Buffaloes hold a 14-20 record, with an 11-8 performance at home. Guard Julian Hammond III leads the team with 12.5 points per game, shooting 40.6% from the field and 37.5% from beyond the arc. Forward Andrej Jakimovski adds 10.4 points per game and is coming off a standout performance with 25 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 steals in his last outing. Colorado's offense averages 69.9 points per game, ranking 283rd nationally, and their defense allows 71.5 points per game, placing them 160th.

Betting Insights

As of the latest reports, Villanova is favored by 3.5 points, with a total over/under set at 141.5 points. The Wildcats have covered the spread in 12 of their 26 games this season, including a 5-7 record when favored by at least 3.5 points. Colorado has a 17-17 record against the spread, with a 10-12 mark when playing as underdogs of 3.5 points or more. Notably, Villanova's games have exceeded the 141.5-point total in 14 of 26 contests, while Colorado's games have surpassed this mark in 15 of 34 outings.

Colorado Buffaloes vs. Villanova Wildcats Prediction

Considering the statistical profiles and recent performances of both teams, this game is expected to be closely contested. Villanova's efficient offense, led by Dixon and Poplar, provides them with a slight edge. However, Colorado's resilience, especially with Jakimovski's recent standout performance, suggests they can keep the game competitive. Given the spread and both teams' tendencies to play in games that go over the total, a final score prediction of Villanova 72, Colorado 69 seems reasonable. Bettors might consider taking Colorado to cover the +3.5 spread and the total to go under 141.5 points.

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