The No. 6 Houston Cougars, boasting an impressive 17-1 record and 5-0 in the Big 12, are set to face the No. 12 Texas Tech Red Raiders (15-4, 5-1) this Saturday. The highly anticipated tip-off will take place at 2 p.m. ET at the United Supermarkets Arena in Lubbock, Texas, with the game broadcasted live on ESPN.
Houston enters the matchup on a staggering 11-game winning streak, following a commanding victory over Arizona State, where they triumphed 103-73. In that game, Houston covered the spread as an 18.5-point home favorite, with the Over (142.5) effortlessly hitting. Guard Kingston Flemings led the charge with 20 points, complemented by all five Cougars starters scoring in double figures.
On the other side, Texas Tech has also been on a roll, winning their last four games, including a decisive 92-73 win against Baylor. They covered the spread as a 1.5-point road favorite, with guard Christian Anderson starring with a game-high 26 points, shooting an impressive 80% from three-point range. Forward JT Toppin and guard Donovan Atwell also contributed significantly, scoring 22 and 21 points, respectively.
The teams previously clashed on January 6, where Houston secured a 69-65 victory. Texas Tech managed to cover as a 7.5-point underdog in that contest, and the Under (142.5) also hit.
As for betting insights from BetMGM Sportsbook, Houston has a moneyline of -118, while Texas Tech sits at -102. The spread is tight at Houston -1.5 and Texas Tech +1.5, with an Over/Under set at 140.5.
In predictions, Houston is anticipated to narrowly edge out Texas Tech, with a forecasted score of 79-78. Bettors are advised to back Houston on the moneyline given their current momentum, and consider the Over on 140.5, as both teams possess potent offenses that could elevate the game’s scoring pace.
With both squads demonstrating significant offensive capabilities, fans can expect a thrilling contest full of intensity and skill. This matchup not only showcases the strength of these programs but also promises excitement for college basketball enthusiasts.