Texas Tech vs Kansas Odds
| Texas Tech Odds | ||
|---|---|---|
| Spread | Total | Moneyline |
+8.5 -105 | 147.5 -110o / -110u | +320 |
| Kansas Odds | ||
|---|---|---|
| Spread | Total | Moneyline |
-8.5 -115 | 147.5 -110o / -110u | -420 |
Two of the Big 12's hottest teams are set to meet tonight. While that sentence may seem off, it's very accurate.
The Texas Tech Red Raiders have found something in the month of February. After starting out 0-8 in conference play, they have rattled off victories in four of their last five games.
Meanwhile, their hot streak hails in comparison to that of Kansas'. The Jayhawks had a midseason hiccup but have responded tremendously, as they've won eight of their last nine games.
So, which wave will we ride in this matchup? Let's take a closer look to find out.
Texas Tech Red Raiders
The Red Raiders' late-season resurgence did not just come out of nowhere. It has a lot to do with the return on Fardaws Aimaq.
Aimaq has missed the majority of the year with a foot injury, but he has announced his presence with authority. He has scored in double figures in four of the five games since he's returned, and three of those performances have led to victories.
Aimaq is a dynamic seven-footer who has shown he can score from all three levels, but where he has been tremendous is in the paint.
It just so happens that's the one area where the Jayhawks have been susceptible.
When it comes to points in the paint, the success of Aimaq has given the Red Raiders a formidable trio down low. Kevin Obanor, Aimaq and De'Vion Harmon (a guard) all shoot above 64% from close range. The Jayhawks have surrendered 35% of points from that area, as well.
The key will be working the ball inside continuously, as turnovers have been an issue for the Red Raiders. If they can maintain possession, Kansas doesn't have the size to bang with them on the low block.
Kansas Jayhawks
As I mentioned in the open, the Jayhawks have been rolling of late, putting together some tremendous offensive performances along the way.
In four of their last five games, they have posted effective field goal percentages over 56%.
Much of it has come from executing inside the arc.
Much like its opposition, Kansas is a team that likes to work the ball inside. It has a bevy of players who can do so. K.J. Adams Jr. is the one to watch, as he's converted nearly 70% of his looks from close range.
However, we can't talk about the Jayhawks' offense without mentioning Jalen Wilson. The hyper-athletic wing has taken a big step this season, and while he's not been very efficient, his volume and ability to score from all three levels will be a factor in this matchup.
Kansas has edges on paper inside, but it will be the smaller team around the rim. If the Jayhawks are forced to settle for perimeter shots, it could derail their offense at times.
Texas Tech vs. Kansas Betting Pick
These two teams met all the way back at the beginning of January, and the Red Raiders gave the Jayhawks a run for their money.
Obanor dominated from all levels of the court, but the addition of Aimaq makes them much more formidable in the paint on both ends of the floor.
Their inside presence will also impact the Jayhawks on the other end of the court. While Kansas does have plenty of players who can shoot, it's far less likely the Jayhawks will go on big runs if they have to settle for perimeter shots.
Take the Red Raiders to challenge the Jayhawks again and cover the spread in the process.
Pick: Texas Tech +10 (Play to +8.5) |
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