Furman Paladins vs North Texas Mean Green Pick – 3/19/2025

The Furman Paladins (25-9) are set to face the North Texas Mean Green (24-8) in the opening round of the NIT on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at 8:00 p.m. ET at the UNT Coliseum in Denton, Texas. This encounter features two teams with contrasting styles: Furman's dynamic offense against North Texas's formidable defense.

Furman Paladins vs North Texas Mean Green Game Preview

Furman enters the NIT after a strong season in the Southern Conference, finishing with an 11-7 conference record. The Paladins advanced to the SoCon Tournament final, where they narrowly lost to Wofford 92-85. Despite the setback, Furman has demonstrated resilience, winning six of their last seven games. Their non-conference schedule included notable victories over Belmont, Princeton, and Harvard, showcasing their ability to compete against diverse opponents.

Offensively, Furman is potent, averaging 77.6 points per game on 45.7% shooting from the field and 36.7% from beyond the arc. They rank 10th nationally in three-pointers made per game, emphasizing their perimeter shooting prowess. Guard PJay Smith Jr. leads the team with 18.0 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game, while Nick Anderson contributes 14.7 points per game on 45.9% shooting. Defensively, the Paladins allow 69.7 points per game, holding opponents to 41.9% shooting from the field and 31.6% from three-point range.

North Texas, representing the American Athletic Conference, concluded the regular season with a 14-4 conference record. The Mean Green reached the AAC Tournament semifinals but were defeated by UAB 66-56. They have been dominant at home, boasting a 15-1 record at the UNT Coliseum, underscoring their home-court advantage.

The Mean Green's success is anchored in their defense, which ranks third nationally, allowing just 59.3 points per game. They limit opponents to 41.2% shooting from the field and 30.9% from three-point territory. Offensively, North Texas averages 68.5 points per game, shooting 45.5% from the field and 36.2% from three-point range. Guard Atin Wright leads the scoring with 15.2 points per game, supported by forward Brenen Lorient, who adds 12.2 points and 4.9 rebounds per game.

Betting Insights

As of the latest odds, North Texas is favored by 8 points, with a moneyline of -370, while Furman stands at +295. The over/under for the game is set at 130.5 points. North Texas has a 15-15 record against the spread (ATS) this season, including an 8-5 ATS record when favored by 8 points or more. Furman holds a 16-14 ATS record but has not covered the spread in their lone game as an underdog of 8 points or more this season.

Furman Paladins vs North Texas Mean Green Prediction

This matchup presents a classic offense-versus-defense scenario. Furman's high-scoring offense will be tested against North Texas's stifling defense. The Mean Green's ability to control the tempo and their impressive home record suggest they have the upper hand. While Furman's shooting capabilities, particularly from three-point range, could keep the game competitive, North Texas's defensive discipline and home-court advantage are likely to be decisive factors.

Considering these elements, the prediction leans towards North Texas securing a victory and covering the 8-point spread. The game's pace, influenced by North Texas's deliberate style, suggests a lower-scoring affair, making the under on the 130.5 total points a plausible outcome.

Final Score Prediction: North Texas 70, Furman 60