Kent State at U N L V

Two solid mid-majors square off in this one and both have had outstanding seasons. Kent State has played well on the road all season and they are 12-5 in their last 17 out of their own building. They are experienced, fundamentally solid, and most of all balanced. They can score inside and out, and are a tough team to defend. Defensively they allow just 40% from the field so they are good at both ends. UNLV got noticed by making a deep run into the tournament last year. One would think that experience would make them comfortable for an encore this season. The problem is, this is a completely different team. Players from last year's tournament that averaged 138 of 200 minutes, delivering 52.3 ppg, 24 rebounds, and 10 assists, are all gone! This is a very inexperienced team, one that could implode vs. a disiplined Kent State team. The Flashes are 12-4 ATS this season vs. winning teams including 8-2 ATS vs. those at 60%+ SU. They also know how to win expected close games as they are 11-3 ATS the past two seasons in games with a line of -3 to +3. UNLV loves the three, hoisting up 23 per game. Kent matches up superbly in that area as they are 8-1 ATS this season vs. teams that attempt 21+ bombs per game. We like the Golden Flashes here to advance.