DePaul Blue Demons vs Cincinnati Bearcats Pick – 4/1/2025

The DePaul Blue Demons and the Cincinnati Bearcats are set to face off in the first round of the College Basketball Crown on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at 3:00 PM ET. The game will take place at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, and will be broadcast on Fox Sports 1. This matchup features two teams with contrasting seasons, each aiming to advance in the postseason.

DePaul Blue Demons vs. Cincinnati Bearcats Game Preview

DePaul enters the tournament with a 14-19 record, having finished 10th in the Big East Conference with a 4-16 mark. The Blue Demons showed resilience in the Big East Tournament, pushing Creighton to double overtime before falling 85-81. Despite this spirited performance, DePaul faces significant roster challenges. Forward David Skogman is sidelined with a foot injury, and several players, including Conor Enright, have entered the transfer portal, leaving the team with a depleted lineup.

Offensively, DePaul averages 72.8 points per game, ranking 211th nationally. They are proficient from beyond the arc, making 9.4 three-pointers per game at a 34.6% clip. Guard CJ Gunn leads the team with 12.8 points per game, while Isaiah Rivera contributes 10.7 points and 4.1 rebounds per contest. However, the team's defense has been a concern, allowing 74.2 points per game, placing them 249th in the nation.

Cincinnati, on the other hand, holds an 18-15 record and finished tied for 12th in the Big 12 Conference with a 7-13 record. The Bearcats are coming off a 76-56 loss to Iowa State in the Big 12 Tournament. Despite this setback, Cincinnati boasts a strong defensive unit, allowing just 65.7 points per game, ranking 26th nationally. Guard Jizzle James leads the team with 12.8 points and 3.6 assists per game, while forward Dillon Mitchell adds 9.5 points and 6.7 rebounds per contest.

Offensively, the Bearcats average 70.5 points per game, ranking 267th nationally. They are less reliant on the three-point shot, making 7.3 per game at a 32% success rate. Notably, Cincinnati has won the last five meetings against DePaul, including a 75-70 victory in their most recent encounter on January 15, 2013.

Betting Insights

As of April 1, 2025, the betting lines for this matchup are as follows:

• Spread: Cincinnati favored by 9.5 points
• Over/Under: 140.5 points
• Moneyline: Cincinnati -450, DePaul +340

These odds suggest that Cincinnati is the clear favorite, with a significant point spread reflecting their defensive prowess and DePaul's roster challenges. Bettors should consider the Bearcats' strong defense and the Blue Demons' recent offensive struggles when making their wagers.

DePaul Blue Demons vs. Cincinnati Bearcats Prediction

Considering the current form and roster situations of both teams, Cincinnati appears to have the upper hand in this matchup. DePaul's depleted roster and defensive vulnerabilities make it challenging for them to compete against the Bearcats' disciplined defense. While DePaul has shown resilience, the absence of key players and Cincinnati's defensive capabilities are likely to be decisive factors.

Prediction: Cincinnati Bearcats 74, DePaul Blue Demons 67

Betting Pick: DePaul to cover the spread (+9.5)

Over/Under: Over 140.5 points

In summary, while Cincinnati is expected to win, DePaul's ability to keep games close suggests they may cover the spread. Additionally, the combined scoring tendencies of both teams point towards the total points exceeding 140.5.