Wofford Terriers vs Tennessee Volunteers Prediction – 3/20/2025

The NCAA Tournament's first round brings an intriguing matchup between the 15th-seeded Wofford Terriers and the 2nd-seeded Tennessee Volunteers. Scheduled for March 20, 2025, at 6:50 PM, this game will take place at Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky. Both teams enter the tournament with distinct narratives, setting the stage for an exciting contest.

Wofford Terriers vs. Tennessee Volunteers Game Preview

The Wofford Terriers (19-15) secured their spot in the tournament by clinching the Southern Conference Championship with a 92-85 victory over Furman. This win marked their third consecutive triumph, highlighting their momentum heading into the tournament. Offensively, Wofford averages 75.3 points per game, shooting 45.3% from the field and 34.1% from beyond the arc. Defensively, they allow 69.8 points per game, with opponents shooting 43.5% overall and 33.9% from three-point range.

Key players for the Terriers include guard Corey Tripp, who leads the team with 14.3 points and 3.2 assists per game, and forward Kyler Filewich, contributing 11.9 points and 9.4 rebounds per game. Their performances will be crucial in Wofford's attempt to challenge Tennessee's formidable defense.

The Tennessee Volunteers (27-7) enter the tournament after a runner-up finish in the SEC Tournament, falling to Florida 86-77 in the final. Despite this setback, Tennessee has demonstrated consistency throughout the season. They average 74.8 points per game, shooting 45.5% from the field and 34.0% from three-point territory. Defensively, the Volunteers are among the nation's elite, allowing just 63.1 points per game. They hold opponents to 38.2% shooting overall and an impressive 27.8% from beyond the arc.

Leading Tennessee's offense is guard Chaz Lanier, averaging 17.7 points per game, and guard Zakai Zeigler, who adds 13.8 points and 7.3 assists per game. Zeigler also contributes defensively with 1.9 steals per game, underscoring his all-around impact.

Betting Insights

For those interested in the betting aspects of this matchup, here are the current lines:

• Point Spread: Tennessee favored by 19 points.
• Moneyline: Wofford +1480, Tennessee -3704.
• Over/Under: 133.5 points.

These odds reflect Tennessee's status as a heavy favorite, given their higher seed and strong season performance. Bettors should consider Tennessee's defensive prowess and Wofford's recent offensive surge when evaluating these lines.

Wofford Terriers vs. Tennessee Volunteers Prediction

Analyzing the matchup, Tennessee's defensive strength stands out as a significant factor. Their ability to limit opponents' shooting efficiency, particularly from three-point range, poses a challenge for Wofford's offense, which relies on perimeter shooting. Additionally, Tennessee's experience and depth provide them with an advantage in tournament play.

While Wofford has shown resilience and offensive capability, overcoming Tennessee's defense will be a daunting task. The Volunteers' balanced attack, led by Lanier and Zeigler, coupled with their defensive tenacity, positions them favorably in this contest.

Considering these factors, the prediction leans towards Tennessee securing a decisive victory. The Volunteers are expected to cover the 19-point spread, and the game's total points are likely to stay under 133.5, given Tennessee's defensive efficiency and moderate offensive tempo.

In conclusion, Tennessee's combination of defensive excellence and offensive balance makes them the strong pick in this first-round matchup against Wofford.