Connecticut vs Florida Picks and Prediction – 3/23/2025
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No. 8 UConn Huskies (24-10, 15-7 Big East) vs. No. 1 Florida Gators (31-4, 17-4 SEC)
Time: 12:10 PM
Location: Lenovo Center, Raleigh, NC
Previous Games:
- UConn: 67-59 win over Oklahoma Sooners
- Florida: 95-69 win over Norfolk State Spartans
Head-to-Head:
- UConn won 75-54 in their last matchup.
Key Stats & Trends:
- Florida has been dominant in recent games, covering the spread in 4 of their last 5 games.
- UConn has struggled against top-tier teams.
UConn Breakdown:
UConn enters this matchup off a gritty win against Oklahoma. They’ve now won four of their last five games, showing resilience against Big East competition. Guard Hassan Diarra plays a key role in controlling the pace with 5.7 assists per game, and he adds a defensive punch with 1.6 steals. Tarris Reed Jr. anchors the frontcourt, contributing 7.3 rebounds per game and 1.6 blocks per contest. Defensively, UConn has been solid, holding teams to 65.1 points per game. Their strong rebounding and defense will be key against Florida’s high-powered offense. Offensively, UConn averages 74.5 points per game, shooting 44.3% from the field and 74.1% from the free-throw line. For UConn to hang with Florida, they’ll need another efficient game from Solo Ball, who leads the team with 14.6 points per game and has been shooting 44.7% from the field.
Florida Breakdown:
Florida has been a well-oiled machine, coming into this game on a 10-game win streak, dominating in the SEC tournament. The Gators are averaging nearly 94 points over their last five games, with Walter Clayton Jr. leading the way, averaging 17.7 points per game. He’s been on a tear, scoring 20+ points in three straight games. Defensively, Florida allows 70.4 points per game, and Alex Condon has been a major presence in the paint, contributing 7.8 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game. Offensively, Florida shoots 46.9% from the field, 36.2% from beyond the arc, and 75.2% from the free-throw line. They’re strong both offensively and defensively, and their balanced attack is tough to stop. Will Richard also helps on the defensive end with 1.7 steals per game.
Exact Score Prediction: Florida 85 - UConn 72
Our Best Bet: Florida -9.5 @ -110