Howard (18-6, 9-5 MEAC) might’ve been the underdog often during the regular season with a 15-16 record, but writing them off before the tournament even starts? That’s a mistake.
Despite their less-than-stellar offensive efficiency rankings and their struggle at the defensive end, counting the Bison out would be premature. Sure, their stats don’t scream championship contender, but they have Bryce Harris leading the charge as a formidable scorer and fierce competitor. Seth Towns is wrapping up a college journey that’s been nothing short of an epic saga across Harvard, Ohio State, and now Howard.
They’ve got heart and talent that could surprise you. These players are not just participating; they’re looking to leave a mark, making Howard’s presence in the tournament more than just a token appearance.
On the other side, despite being a middling fifth seed in the not-so-formidable NEC, Wagner (16-15, 7-9 NEC) fought tooth and nail to clinch their tournament spot. They’ve battled with a strategy that might not dazzle the scoreboards but has proven effective: winning gritty, low-scoring games.
Don’t expect them to switch gears now. Wagner is all-in on dragging their opponents into the mud, fighting for every point until the final buzzer. Their offensive efficiency might not scare the big guns, but defensively, they hover around the lower echelons.
But underestimate them at your peril. In a tournament where pressure can turn diamonds into dust, Wagner’s tenacity could be their wildcard.
Both teams are stepping into the arena not just to participate but to compete and, perhaps, to conquer.
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No. 16 Wagner-No. 16 Howard Betting Odds & Promo Details
- Date: Tuesday, March 19, 2024
- Time: 6:40 p.m. ET
- Watch: TruTV
- Location: UD Arena; Dayton, OH
- Spread: Wagner +3.0 (-108), Howard -3.0 (-112)
- Moneyline: Wagner (+140), Howard (-166)
- Total: Over/Under 128 (-108, -112)
Wagner-Howard March Madness Betting Preview
Wagner flipped the script with a stellar comeback, charging through their conference tournament with three back-to-back road victories to snatch the NEC crown from the jaws of defeat. Not to be outdone, Howard bulldozed through the MEAC Tournament, securing three wins in as many days to clinch their spot in the NCAA Tournament for the second year running.
Both squads matched up with similar battle-hardened schedules, taking a road less traveled by small-conference titans by not overloading their pre-season with powerhouse opponents.
Wagner, known for setting the pace with the nation’s second-slowest tempo, showcased a fortress-like defense, including a stifling 29.9% defense against the three-pointer. Meanwhile, Howard lit up from beyond the arc, ranking among the top 20 in 3P%, setting the stage for a clash of titans where strengths collide head-on.
Yet, the tale of the tape reveals some game-changing differences.
Howard dominated the offensive boards and proved more lethal with close-range shots, boasting a 40.3% shot share on Close Twos against Wagner’s 30.2%. However, Howard’s grip on the ball was looser, with turnovers on over 21% of their possessions.
The spotlight shines bright on Howard’s dynamic duo, Bryce Harris and Seth Towns, with the Bison showcasing a slight edge in star power.
Marcus Dockery brings his A-game from Maryland, and Towns brings experience from Ohio State and Harvard, hinting at a talent divide on the court. Yet, with defense known to hold its ground, Wagner emerges as a fascinating dark horse in this duel.
Both teams are hungry for glory, marking their first dance in the First Four. While Howard, under the guidance of Coach Kenny Blakeney, revisits the tournament stage after last year’s bout with Kansas, Wagner eyes its first tournament since 2003.
Given the more relevant and recent March Madness experience, I have to give the Bison a slight edge to cover the spread.
PREDICTION: Howard wins 65-61
BET: Howard -3.0 (-112)
BET: Under 128 (-112)
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