Alabama Crimson Tide vs. Kentucky Wildcats

February 24, 2024

An outstanding SEC college basketball showdown is coming up soon as the 13^th-ranked Alabama Crimson Tide (19-7) take on the 17^th-ranked Kentucky Wildcats (18-8) on Saturday, February 24 at 4:00 PM ET at Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky. The Wildcats are slightly favored to win at home with a point spread at -2.5 (-110).

Alabama Crimson Tide Betting Preview

The Crimson Tide have won their last four out of five games and are currently riding a three-game win streak coming into this one. Their most recent win was a 98-93 overtime thriller over the Florida Gators.

Mark Sears has been sensational for the Crimson Tide, leading them with 20.4 points per game. This puts him at 24^th in the nation and a difficult task to handle in one of the tougher conferences out there.

The Crimson Tide maintain an average score of 91.0 points per game, showcasing a 48.0 percent success rate in field goals and prioritizing teamwork with an average of 16.2 assists per game. In comparison to the Wildcats, they generate slightly fewer scoring opportunities with less ball movement, but it does not seem to affect them negatively.

Defensively, they limit opponents to 77.4 points, resulting in a significant positive point differential. They rely heavily on their offense to win games. Notable defensive statistics include 40.0 rebounds, 4.4 blocks, and 7.6 steals per game.

Kentucky Wildcats Betting Preview

The Wildcats have established a 3-2 record in their previous five matchups, with a recent defeat under their belt. This was a 75-74 outing against the LSU Tigers, which snapped their two-game win streak.

Antonio Reeves will be a good test against Sears, as he averages 19.7 points per game. He ranks tied for 34^th in his offensive output.

The Wildcats consistently score an average of 87.6 points per game, with a 48.8 percent success rate in field goals. Their effective ball movement is evident through 17.1 assists per game, indicating strong scoring opportunities.

On the defensive end, they limit opponents to an average of 77.3 points per game, showcasing a notable point differential compared to their offensive performance. Additionally, they secure 38.3 rebounds, block 6.2 shots, and record 7.9 steals in each game.

Odds, Series Trends and Free Pick

MyBookie has set the odds for this college basketball clash, with the Kentucky Wildcats holding a 2.5-point advantage on their home court. According to market analysis, there is a 38.2 percent chance of them securing victory in this matchup.

Both teams rely heavily on their offense and fast paced play to win games. The Crimson Tide arguably have done it better than the Wildcats, but look for the Wildcats to get back on track at home.

Final Pick: Kentucky Wildcats -2.5 (-110)

Return to College Basketball Previews List