Georgia Bulldogs vs Gonzaga Bulldogs Pick – 3/20/2025

The NCAA Tournament's first round brings an intriguing matchup between the ninth-seeded Georgia Bulldogs and the eighth-seeded Gonzaga Bulldogs. Scheduled for Thursday, March 20, 2025, at 4:35 p.m. Eastern Time at INTRUST Bank Arena in Wichita, Kansas, this game promises to be a compelling contest between two teams with contrasting styles and recent trajectories.

Georgia Bulldogs vs. Gonzaga Bulldogs Game Preview

Georgia enters the tournament with a 20-12 overall record, including an 8-10 mark in the highly competitive Southeastern Conference (SEC). The Bulldogs demonstrated resilience by closing the regular season with four consecutive victories over Florida, Texas, South Carolina, and Vanderbilt. However, their momentum was halted with a first-round exit in the SEC Tournament at the hands of Oklahoma.

Offensively, Georgia averages 75.6 points per game, shooting 46.4% from the field. They are led by forward Asa Newell, who contributes 15.3 points and 6.8 rebounds per game, and guard Silas Demary Jr., adding 13.4 points and 3.1 assists per game. Defensively, Georgia allows 69.3 points per game, holding opponents to 40.9% shooting from the field.

Gonzaga, on the other hand, boasts a 25-8 record, finishing 14-4 in the West Coast Conference (WCC). The Bulldogs concluded their season on a high note, winning seven of their last eight games and capturing the WCC Tournament title by defeating Saint Mary's in the final.

Gonzaga's offense is among the nation's best, averaging 86.6 points per game on 50% shooting from the field. Forward Graham Ike leads the team with 17.1 points and 7.5 rebounds per game, while guard Nolan Hickman adds 11 points per game, shooting 43.6% from beyond the arc. Defensively, Gonzaga allows 69.6 points per game, with opponents shooting 41.4% from the field.

Betting Insights

As of the latest reports, sportsbooks have set the betting line with Gonzaga favored by 6.5 points, and the over/under total at 150.5 points. These figures reflect Gonzaga's potent offense and recent form, as well as Georgia's ability to compete against strong opponents.

Key betting trends to consider:

• Gonzaga has won 66 of its last 69 day games against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• Georgia has lost each of its last six day games against AP-ranked opponents.
• Each of Gonzaga's last four games against SEC opponents has produced a total of 160 or more points.
• Five of Georgia's last six games against AP-ranked opponents have produced a total of 151 or more points.

Georgia Bulldogs vs. Gonzaga Bulldogs Prediction

This matchup presents a classic contrast between Georgia's balanced approach and Gonzaga's high-powered offense. Georgia's ability to control the tempo and execute defensively will be crucial in limiting Gonzaga's scoring opportunities. However, Gonzaga's experience and offensive efficiency provide them with a significant advantage.

Considering Gonzaga's recent form, offensive prowess, and experience in high-stakes games, they are well-positioned to secure a victory and cover the 6.5-point spread. While Georgia has shown resilience and the capability to compete against top-tier teams, Gonzaga's overall strength and momentum make them the favorable choice in this contest.

Prediction: Gonzaga Bulldogs 82, Georgia Bulldogs 74