North Carolina vs Ole Miss Betting Preview: Hot Tar Heels Small Favorites After First Four Win
North Carolina opens as 1.5-point favorites against Ole Miss in their NCAA Tournament first-round matchup, scheduled for Thursday at 4:05 pm ET in Milwaukee.
Basketball players compete for possession
The #11 Tar Heels (23-13, 16-19-1 ATS) dominated their First Four game against San Diego State with a 95-68 victory, led by RJ Davis's 26 points and Elliott Cadeau's impressive 9-point, 12-assist performance. UNC has won nine of their last 11 games, with their only losses coming against top-ranked Duke.
Duke player shooting basketball
#6 Ole Miss (22-11, 16-16-1 ATS) enters the matchup with less momentum, having lost five of their last eight games. The Rebels started strong at 15-2 but struggled late in the season, finishing 10-8 in SEC play.
Current Odds:
- North Carolina: -1.5 points (-130 moneyline)
- Ole Miss: +1.5 points (+130 moneyline)
- Total: 152.5 points
Auburn vs Ole Miss basketball
Betting Tip: Consider taking UNC early if backing the Tar Heels, as public sentiment and recent form suggest the line will move in their favor. Ole Miss backers may find better value closer to tip-off.
KenPom Rankings:
- Ole Miss: 26th overall
- North Carolina: 30th overall (up from 33rd after First Four win)
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