Kent State’s laying 5.5 at home against Toledo, but the adjusted efficiency numbers suggest this MAC showdown is closer than the 9-1 record indicates. Bash breaks down why the Rockets are live dogs in a high-scoring battle.
Bryan Bash
CBB Free Picks: Creighton vs. Providence 1/16/25
Creighton heads to Providence as a slight road favorite despite the Friars’ better record. Bryan Bash breaks down why efficiency and momentum trump wins and losses in this Big East showdown, with a focus on Providence’s defensive struggles and Creighton’s recent surge.
Colorado State vs. Boise State Prediction: Offense vs. Defense in the Mountain West
The Rams lead the country in three-point shooting, but their defensive rating is a bottom-tier liability. With CSU playing at the nation’s slowest pace, the prediction hinges on tempo control.
Baylor vs. Kansas ATS Pick: Will the “Phog” Swallow the Bears?
Kansas lays 7.5 at Allen Fieldhouse against Baylor in a classic Big 12 clash of styles. The Jayhawks’ elite defense (8th in adjusted efficiency) faces Baylor’s potent offense (17th), but the Bears’ defensive struggles (263rd) could be their undoing. Bash breaks down why Kansas covers at home.
Wizards vs. Kings ATS Pick: Is Washington Too Shorthanded to Cover?
The Kings lay 7.5 at home against a Wizards squad gutted by injuries. Without Trae Young and Bilal Coulibaly, Washington lacks the depth to hang with Sacramento’s three-headed attack. Bryan Bash breaks down why the number is right and the Kings cover comfortably.
Pelicans vs Pacers Prediction: Two Struggling Squads Meet in a Pace-Up Spot
The Pacers are laying 3.5 at home against a Pelicans squad that’s 3-15 on the road, but with both teams sitting at 15th in their conferences and a total set at 238.5, this pace-up spot favors the team getting points. Bash breaks down why New Orleans has the offensive firepower to stay competitive in a high-variance environment.
Bulls vs Nets Prediction: Chicago’s Road Woes Meet Brooklyn’s Home Struggles
The Bulls head to Brooklyn as 2-point road underdogs, but without Josh Giddey’s playmaking and a 7-12 road record, Chicago’s dysfunction meets a desperate Nets team with Michael Porter Jr. rolling at 25.7 PPG. Bash breaks down why two points feels light in this matchup spot.
Los Angeles Clippers vs Toronto Raptors Prediction: Kawhi Returns North With a Four-Game Win Streak
Kawhi Leonard and the Clippers bring a four-game winning streak into Toronto. With Leonard dropping 33 in their last win and Harden facilitating at a high level, LA’s offensive rhythm is clicking. The Raptors showed offensive firepower against Indiana, but can they defend well enough to slow down the Clippers’ disciplined attack?
Cavaliers vs. 76ers ATS Pick: Can Philly Bounce Back from an Embarrassment?
The Sixers are laying 2.0 points at home against a Cavaliers squad that just dismantled them 133-107 two nights ago. Bryan Bash breaks down why Cleveland’s transition attack and Mitchell’s dominance make the Cavs plus the points the sharp play in this Friday night rematch on ESPN.
Timberwolves vs Rockets Prediction: Houston’s Home Edge Meets Minnesota’s Edwards Problem
Houston lays 4 at home against a Timberwolves squad missing Anthony Edwards. The Rockets’ 12-3 home record and Minnesota’s offensive adjustments without their leading scorer create a clear edge for Houston in a controlled, halfcourt game.