The much-anticipated 2023-24 men’s college basketball season is finally here, with numerous teams hitting the court for the first time on Monday night.
One of the most exciting games on the season’s opening day is the Hall of Fame Series matchup between the USC Trojans and the Kansas State Wildcats at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Both teams have their sights set on returning to the NCAA Tournament after making it last year, with the Trojans ranked No. 22 in the USA TODAY Coaches Poll and the Wildcats unranked.
USC will be without their four-star recruit, LeBron “Bronny” James Jr., as he continues his recovery from a cardiac arrest he suffered during a summer practice session. There is currently no timeline for his return to action.
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USC at Kansas State predictions roundup
Sportsbook Wire: USC 73, Kansas State 66
According to Corey Scott, “USC is bringing back their leading scorer from last season and has added the nation’s top-rated recruit. The combination of Ellis and Collier in the backcourt should prove to be too much for a Kansas State team that is filled with new faces.”
Action Network: Tease up Kansas State against the spread
D.J. James suggests, “The differences between these two teams are marginal. However, since the game will be played on a neutral court and Kansas State has more experience in their rotation, they should cover the spread and might even secure the victory… Take the Wildcats at +2.5 and potentially play them up to +1.5.”
Sports Illustrated: USC spread is a solid bet
Steven Hall states, “One of our top college basketball bets is for USC to cover the spread tonight. They have an exciting team that will be one of the best in the country. The Trojans had one of the best interior defenses last season, and we expect them to excel in that area again this season… Our expert prediction for USC vs. Kansas State is USC -3.”
ESPN: USC has a 52.5% chance of winning on Monday night
According to the analytics department at ESPN, the Trojans have a slight edge over the Wildcats. ESPN gives Kansas State a 47.5% chance of winning.
Pickswise: The Trojans (-3) are poised to cover the spread
They state, “USC should be the better team to start the season due to the number of returning players, while Kansas State will rely more on newcomers. USC guard Boogie Ellis, who averaged 17 points per game last season, will be one of the top guards in the nation this year… We anticipate that USC’s defense and experience playing together will be enough for them to cover the spread in this game.”
How to Watch USC at Kansas State basketball: TV channel and streaming
When: Monday, Nov. 6, 10 p.m. ET
Where: T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas, Nev.
Cable TV: TNT
Streaming: B/R Sports on Max; Reference
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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