Today’s College Basketball Bet: Gonzaga, Virginia Tech in Major Tournament Game

The Virginia Tech Hokies are playing in the NCAA Tournament and the Wake Forest Demon Deacons are playing spoiler. It’s a relatively simple process, and if Virginia Tech loses, they’ll likely be kicked out. If they win, they have a real chance of finding one of the last spots.

There are three key points where I would give the Hokies an edge that will help them find a win. First, offensive rebounding. Both teams are struggling, ranking near the bottom of the ACC in offensive rebound rate. The difference is that Virginia Tech can generate offensive rebounds on its own, while Wake Forest cannot.

The Hokies have two ways to score tonight. First, they can reach the front lines at a higher speed, giving them an advantage over the Demon Deacons. Wake Forest also wants opponents to shoot from deep, and Virginia Tech quietly has some strong 3-point shooters.

This is an interesting spot to be in, as Wake played spoiler against California on Saturday and has a chance to do so again. But that game was played at home and I favor the bubble team to find a much-needed win in this scenario.

Where to Bet: Virginia Tech Moneyline | – 145 at Caesars Sportsbook

Gonzaga -6.5 spread

The Santa Clara Broncos and Gonzaga Bulldogs are set to face off in the WCC Tournament finals tonight. Santa Clara is technically a bubble team, but they likely clinched a spot in March Madness with a win over Saint Mary’s last night. Gonzaga is tournament bound but playing for a seed, and the difference between the third and fourth lines is huge this season.

The Zags are good in most areas where Santa Clara struggles. The Broncos are dominated by turnovers and offensive rebounds. The Bulldogs feature elite turnover rates and don’t give up many offensive rebounds.

This game will likely go from possession to possession and the difference maker will continue to be Graham Ike. He is one of the best big men in the NCAA and can draw fouls. Santa Clara is a team willing to foul, and the Zags could get into foul trouble if Ike attacks.

The biggest problem here is that Gonzaga is already 2-0 against Santa Clara this season, and it’s hard to beat a good team three times. Still, the Broncos are playing their third game in three days, while the Bulldogs are only playing their second, and won relatively easily last night.

I’ll hold Gonzaga here to win the WCC tournament, and I’m fine with scoring.

Where to Bet: Gonzaga -6.5 Spread | -110 at FanDuel Sportsbook

2025-26 CBB Season Betting Record: 1-3