The college basketball season is reaching a fever pitch as teams tackle the crucial early phase that shapes their journeys.

Wednesday's lineup features a number of games between the nation’s top teams, presenting a perfect chance to make some college basketball picks!

 

 

 

College Basketball Predictions & Overview Today, 12/4

The spotlight shines on a thrilling Top 10 clash between Auburn and Duke in the SEC/ACC Challenge.

Auburn, still undefeated, is showcasing the prowess expected of a #2 team, while Duke aims to bounce back from a challenging start against top-tier opponents. Another significant matchup features #5 Marquette going head-to-head with #6 Iowa State, as the Big East and Big 12 collide in what could be a defining moment for both teams.

First though, we’ll cover the #5 Baylor vs. #25 UConn matchup. As we delve into these games and more, we’ll explore the critical elements that could influence the results and share our top picks for tonight's college basketball action.

 

 

 

#15 Baylor vs. #25 UConn Predictions & Picks

Leading off our college basketball predictions today, look for UConn to cover the -3 spread (-110 at Bet365) against Baylor at home. After tough losses to Memphis, Colorado, and Dayton, UConn is back in their familiar setting in Storrs, where they perform well.

The team is scoring an impressive 86.3 points per game, ranking 23rd in the nation, and their 50.7% shooting percentage puts them 14th overall, showing their effectiveness. It'll be tough with Alex Karaban out, but look for Solo Ball, who's hitting over 45% of his three-point shots, to exploit Baylor’s weak defense, which ranks poorly in both field goal percentage and three-point defense.

On the defensive end, UConn's toughness will put pressure on Baylor’s offense, led by Norchad Omier (15.9 PPG, 10.4 RPG). UConn is 33rd in scoring defense, allowing 63.3 points per game, and has the 4th-best rebounding margin in the country, limiting Baylor’s second-chance points.

Playing at home, the Huskies' strong defense and depth, with good rim protection and athletic players, should overpower the Bears. Overall, UConn’s well-rounded offense and ability to take advantage of Baylor’s defensive flaws make them a solid choice to cover the spread and bounce back strongly at home.

 

 

 

#10 Alabama vs. #20 UNC Predictions & Picks

The matchup between Alabama and UNC is set to be an exciting, high-scoring event, as both teams have been prolific on offense this season. Alabama scores an average of 88.8 points per game, ranking 11th in the nation, thanks to their fast pace and strong rebounding, pulling down 40.1 boards per game (7th).

UNC is even better, averaging 89.7 points per game (8th), supported by effective shooting, including 37.7% from three-point range. Both teams excel in fast breaks and creating second-chance points, promising an offensive display.

On the defensive side, both teams have weaknesses. Alabama gives up 78 points per game (319th), while UNC allows 80.1 (337th). They also struggle with opponent shooting percentages, which gives their high-scoring offenses plenty of chances to shine.

Recent games suggest a trend towards high totals, too – Alabama has exceeded the total in three of its last five games, including a 95-90 win over Rutgers. Similarly, UNC has gone over the total in three of its last four games. Expect a fast-paced game where standout players like Mark Sears from Alabama (16.0 PPG) and R.J. Davis from UNC (18.4 PPG) will excel.

With both teams strong offensively and weak defensively, reaching 174.5 (-110 at Bet365) points seems very possible. Betting on the over in this one seems like a smart choice when making college basketball predictions.

 

 

 

#2 Auburn vs. #9 Duke Predictions & Picks

I think Duke has a great chance to cover the -3 (-115 at Bet365) spread against Auburn to wrap up our college basketball predictions today. Relying on the advantage of playing at Cameron Indoor Stadium and their strong experience should be able to carry them.

Auburn has had a good start to the season, but they haven't faced an environment like this, which could throw them off their game. Duke's early schedule has prepared them for intense matchups, including close games against Kansas and Arizona.

Their defense is strong, ranking second in opponent field goal percentage (35.2%) and ninth in points allowed (58.6 PPG), led by freshman Cooper Flagg, who averages 15.9 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game. 

Duke's strong rebounding (38.6 RPG, 19th nationally) should help contain Auburn's top scorer Johni Broome, who averages 20.7 points but has had trouble against tough defenses. Auburn's fast-paced offense (86.7 PPG, 20th nationally) relies on speed, but Duke's careful style and strong defense can slow them down.

With Duke's experience in close games and the strong home-court advantage, they’re in a good position to win and cover the spread against Auburn, who is entering a challenging and unfamiliar setting.

 

 

 

College Basketball Odds & Betting Lines Today

Now that we've covered our official college basketball picks for today, there's only one task remaining. That task is to present today's college basketball odds!

And why limit ourselves to just the games we've provided picks for? Here are the betting lines for today's matchups from various sportsbooks, including Bet365 Sportsbook:

 

 

 

 

How To Bet On College Basketball At Bet365 Sportsbook & Claim Your $1,000 Bonus

New users at Bet365 Sportsbook can choose their own bonus code offer! We have all the information about the promotions, and since you don’t need an actual Bet365 bonus code, you can sign up right away using this link!

Whether you want to boost your bankroll for college basketball or make a big first bet without worry, these offers are perfect for you. One option lets you place a wager of $5 or more on anything, and you’ll get $150 in bonus bets, regardless of the result! 

The other offer gives you up to $1,000 in first-bet protection. For this, you need to bet at least $10 on anything. If your bet doesn’t win, you’ll receive a full refund in bonus bets! Both offers are great for a fun night, so why not create a new account today?