Get the best betting options for Thursday’s college basketball game between the Hawaii Rainbow Warriors and Utah Utes with VSiN’s Greg Peterson.
The Hawaii Rainbow Warriors are set to face the Utah Utes away from the islands on Thursday. Their strong defense will be their main weapon in attempting to pull an upset.
Hawaii Rainbow Warriors vs. Utah Utes (-11, 145.5)
Last season, Hawaii ranked 13th in the country for points allowed per possession. This season, they are currently 16th in the nation in this category as they continue their dominance.
Conversely, Utah has experienced a defensive drop-off this season, despite having all their core defensive players from last season. They’ve faced a challenging schedule, which may account for their performance in the last four games.
Despite Utah’s defensive progress, their 39.1% 3-point shooting is likely to decline, especially when up against Hawaii’s strong 3-point arc defense.
While college basketball shooting numbers can often be unpredictable, Hawaii’s consistency in preventing opponents from shooting well from outside last season and this season makes their numbers sustainable.
Both teams are also expected to play at a slower tempo compared to last season.
Given the shift in tempo for both teams and Hawaii’s strong perimeter defense, a defensive showdown is anticipated in Utah on Thursday.
The Play: Hawaii vs. Utah Under 145.5
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Laura Davis covers the world of basketball with precision. Her articles explore NBA and college basketball, offering game analysis, player profiles, and highlights. Laura’s passion for hoops is evident in her comprehensive basketball coverage.
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