UConn Huskies at North Carolina Tar Heels Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 12/28/2024 11:00 AM EST

We have your UConn Huskies at North Carolina Tar Heels prop betting and game preview needs covered as the UConn Huskies hit the road to face the North Carolina Tar Heels.

UConn Huskies at North Carolina Tar Heels Odds Info

Best Moneyline Odds: UConn Huskies +105 (Caesars) / North Carolina Tar Heels -125 (Caesars)
Best Spread Odds: -2.5 - UConn Huskies -115 (BetMGM) / -2.0 - North Carolina Tar Heels -105 (Caesars)
Best Total Odds: 54.5 - Under -105 (DraftKings) / Over -115 (DraftKings)

Game Info

Date: 12/28/2024
Time: 11:00 AM EST
Location: Fenway Park (Boston, MA)
TV: ESPN

UConn Huskies at North Carolina Tar Heels Preview

The UConn Huskies are set to face the North Carolina Tar Heels in a highly anticipated matchup at Fenway Park. Both teams have had their share of ups and downs this season, making this game a crucial test for each squad. UConn, currently ranked fourth in the AP Top 25, is coming off a tough loss to Notre Dame, which saw them drop two spots in the rankings. Despite the setback, the Huskies have shown resilience, with standout performances from star player Paige Bueckers, who recently scored 25 points against Georgetown. Freshman Sarah Strong has also been a bright spot, making history as the only UConn freshman in the last 25 years to post 15 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists in a single game.

On the other side, the North Carolina Tar Heels have been navigating a challenging schedule. Although they have managed to secure back-to-back wins against Georgia Tech and La Salle, they remain unranked in the USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll. The Tar Heels have faced some of the toughest teams in the nation, including losses to Kansas, Auburn, and Michigan State. However, their recent victory over Dayton has been a highlight, showcasing their potential to compete against top-tier teams.

As the Tar Heels prepare to host the Huskies, they will need to focus on improving their rebounding and minimizing turnovers, areas that have been problematic in recent games. Meanwhile, UConn will aim to capitalize on their offensive strengths, particularly through Bueckers and Strong, while tightening their defense to prevent North Carolina from gaining momentum. With both teams eager to prove themselves, this matchup promises to be a thrilling contest, with each possession likely to be fiercely contested.

UConn Huskies at North Carolina Tar Heels Pick: Total Points Under

As the UConn Huskies prepare to face the North Carolina Tar Heels, the case for betting on the total points to go under is compelling. Both teams have shown tendencies that suggest a lower-scoring affair. UConn, despite their offensive prowess led by Paige Bueckers, has struggled with three-point shooting, as evidenced by their 18.8 percent performance in a recent game against Notre Dame. This inconsistency from beyond the arc could limit their scoring potential against a North Carolina team that has been focusing on defensive improvements.

North Carolina, on the other hand, has been navigating a challenging schedule and has shown vulnerabilities, particularly in rebounding and turnovers. Their recent games have highlighted these issues, with the Tar Heels being dominated on the glass by Georgia Tech and struggling to maintain possession. These factors could hinder their ability to score efficiently against a UConn defense that will be looking to capitalize on these weaknesses.

Moreover, the Tar Heels' recent performances have not been high-scoring affairs, as they have faced some of the toughest defenses in the nation. Their ability to keep games close, as seen in their narrow victory over Dayton, suggests that they can limit the scoring opportunities of their opponents. With both teams eager to prove themselves and likely to focus on defensive strategies, this matchup at Fenway Park is poised to be a tightly contested battle where every possession counts. Therefore, the under on the total points appears to be a prudent choice for this encounter.

UConn Huskies at North Carolina Tar Heels Top Player Prop Picks

Paige Bueckers Over 24.5 Points Scored -110 (FanDuel)

Paige Bueckers has been a standout performer for the UConn Huskies, consistently delivering high-scoring games. Her recent 25-point performance against Georgetown underscores her ability to lead the Huskies' offense. Despite UConn's struggles with three-point shooting, Bueckers' scoring prowess remains a constant, making her a reliable choice for the over on points scored. With North Carolina's defense showing vulnerabilities, particularly in rebounding and turnovers, Bueckers is poised to exploit these weaknesses and continue her scoring streak.

Hannah Hidalgo Over 7.5 Assists -105 (DraftKings)

Hannah Hidalgo has been instrumental in Notre Dame's success, particularly in their victory over UConn, where she recorded eight assists. Her ability to facilitate the offense and create scoring opportunities for her teammates has been a key factor in Notre Dame's rise in the rankings. Given UConn's recent defensive lapses, Hidalgo is likely to find ample opportunities to distribute the ball effectively, making the over on assists a strong proposition.

Sarah Strong Over 9.5 Rebounds -115 (BetMGM)

Freshman Sarah Strong has made a significant impact for UConn, particularly with her rebounding ability. Her historic performance against Georgetown, where she posted 10 rebounds, highlights her potential to dominate the boards. With North Carolina's recent struggles in rebounding, as evidenced by their performance against Georgia Tech, Strong is well-positioned to capitalize on this weakness and secure the over on rebounds. Her presence in the paint will be crucial for UConn as they look to control the game against the Tar Heels.