Arizona vs Texas Tech Big 12 Semifinal: Odds, Picks and Preview
Texas Tech is favored by 2.5 points over Arizona in this Big 12 Tournament semifinal matchup. The teams split their regular season series, with each winning on their home court.
Basketball players battling for possession
The game tips off at 6:30pm MT from T-Mobile Center in Kansas City and will air on ESPN2. The over/under is set at 152.5 points, with Texas Tech at -140 on the moneyline and Arizona at +115.
Key Factors:
- Pace will be crucial: Arizona ranks 56th in adjusted tempo while Texas Tech is 280th
- The teams are closely matched in KenPom ratings (TTU 7th, Arizona 12th)
- Texas Tech excels at defending the three-point line (29.5%, 7th nationally)
- Arizona has struggled from deep lately, shooting under 31% in three of their last four
Previous Meetings:
- Texas Tech won 70-54 in Lubbock (Arizona shot 31%)
- Arizona won 82-73 in Tucson (Arizona shot 52%)
The matchup features Big 12 Player of the Year JT Toppin, who dominated the regular season meetings with 41 points and 29 rebounds combined. Arizona will need better efficiency from Caleb Love, who shot just 7-for-28 in the two previous games.
Betting Analysis: Texas Tech's ability to control tempo and limit transition opportunities gives them a slight edge. Expect a lower-scoring game that stays under the total. While the neutral court should benefit Arizona's offense, Texas Tech's four-game win streak and defensive prowess make them the play.
The Pick: Texas Tech -2.5 (-110)
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