Utah Runnin’ Utes vs Butler Bulldogs Pick – 3/31/2025

The Utah Runnin' Utes and the Butler Bulldogs are set to face off in the first round of the College Basketball Crown tournament on Monday, March 31, 2025, at 3:00 PM Eastern Time at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. Both teams are looking to advance and gain momentum after challenging regular seasons.

Utah Runnin' Utes vs. Butler Bulldogs Game Preview

The Utah Utes concluded their regular season with a 16-16 record, including an 8-12 mark in the Big 12 Conference. They have struggled recently, losing five of their last six games, including an 87-72 defeat to UCF in the first round of the Big 12 tournament. Utah averages 75.3 points per game while allowing 72.2 points to opponents. They are strong on the boards, averaging 39.8 rebounds per game, ranking them 19th nationally. Key players include Gabe Madsen, who leads the team with 15.1 points per game, and Ezra Ausar, contributing 12.4 points and 5.0 rebounds per game.

The Butler Bulldogs finished their season at 14-19, with a 6-14 record in the Big East Conference. They have also faced difficulties, losing five of their last six games, including a 78-57 loss to St. John's in the Big East tournament quarterfinals. Butler scores an average of 73.8 points per game and allows the same number to opponents. They average 35.0 rebounds per game. Leading the Bulldogs is Jahmyl Telfort, who averages 16.0 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game. Pierre Brooks II adds 15.2 points and 5.0 rebounds per game.

Betting Insights

As of the latest reports, the betting line favors Utah by 1.5 points, with an over/under set at 156.5 points. Both teams have struggled against the spread recently, each covering only once in their last five games. Utah has a slight edge in rebounding, which could be a factor in controlling the game's tempo. However, both teams have shown defensive vulnerabilities, suggesting a potentially high-scoring game.

Utah Runnin' Utes vs. Butler Bulldogs Prediction

Given both teams' recent struggles and defensive issues, this game is expected to be closely contested. Utah's rebounding advantage may provide them with more second-chance opportunities, but Butler's slightly better shooting efficiency could offset this. Considering the over/under is set at 156.5 points and both teams have been involved in high-scoring games recently, betting on the over seems reasonable. In terms of the point spread, the game could go either way, making it a challenging pick. However, Utah's slight edge in rebounding and their performance in neutral-site games might give them a narrow advantage. Therefore, the prediction leans towards Utah covering the spread and the total points going over 156.5.

Be sure to check out all our free NCAABB picks here.