New Mexico Lobos vs Marquette Golden Eagles Prediction – 3/21/2025

The NCAA Tournament's South Region first-round matchup between the New Mexico Lobos and the Marquette Golden Eagles is set for Friday, March 21, 2025, at 7:25 PM Eastern Time at Rocket Arena in Cleveland, Ohio. This game features two teams with contrasting recent performances, making it a compelling contest for basketball enthusiasts and bettors alike.

New Mexico Lobos vs Marquette Golden Eagles Game Preview

The New Mexico Lobos enter the tournament with a 26-7 overall record, including a 17-3 mark in the Mountain West Conference, securing the regular-season title. They have won four of their last five games, with their only recent loss being a narrow 72-69 defeat to Boise State. The Lobos' offense is potent, averaging 81.2 points per game, and they excel on the boards with 39.3 rebounds per game. Guard Donovan Dent is the team's standout performer, leading in points (20.6 PPG) and assists (6.4 APG), while forward Nelly Junior Joseph contributes significantly with 14.0 points and 11.2 rebounds per game.

On the other hand, the Marquette Golden Eagles hold a 23-10 overall record and a 13-7 record in the Big East Conference, finishing fifth. Their recent form is less impressive, with a 2-3 record in their last five games, including a 79-63 loss to St. John's in the Big East Tournament semifinals. Marquette's offense averages 76.9 points per game, with guard Kam Jones leading the team in scoring (19.3 PPG) and assists (5.9 APG). Forward David Joplin adds depth with 13.8 points and 5.5 rebounds per game.

Betting Insights

According to DraftKings Sportsbook, Marquette is favored by 3.5 points, with an over/under set at 153.5 points. The Lobos have struggled against the spread recently, going 2-7 in their last nine games, and the total has gone under in five of their last six games. Conversely, the Golden Eagles are 1-4 against the spread in their last five games, and the total has gone under in four of their last six games. Notably, Marquette is 0-5 against the spread in their last five games against Mountain West opponents.

New Mexico Lobos vs Marquette Golden Eagles Prediction

This matchup presents a classic case of a high-powered offense in New Mexico facing a team with recent inconsistencies in Marquette. The Lobos' ability to control the boards and their efficient scoring, led by Donovan Dent, gives them a significant edge. Marquette's recent defensive struggles and their underwhelming finish to the season raise concerns about their ability to contain New Mexico's offensive threats.

Considering the current form and statistical advantages, New Mexico appears well-positioned to not only cover the spread but also secure an outright victory. Bettors might find value in taking New Mexico +3.5 and considering the under on the total points, given both teams' recent trends toward lower-scoring games.

Final Prediction: New Mexico Lobos 74, Marquette Golden Eagles 71.