Expert prediction
UC Irvine vs Long Beach State Preview, Odds, Predictions (Feb. 19)
Pick rationale
Analysis & key factors
- The Anteaters are in the mix of competing for the regular-season title.
- The Beach are going through a seven-game losing streak.
- This marks the 46th all-time matchup between the two Big West squads.
California will be active with basketball matchups throughout Thursday, seeing the UC Irvine Anteaters take on Long Beach State. The former stand out as the solid favorite, seeing a contest that will test the Anteaters’ quality on the road.
How to Watch
- When: Thursday, Feb. 19, 10 pm ET
- Where: Walter Pyramid, Long Beach, California
- How to Watch: ESPN+
NCAA Matchup Odds & Lines
| Team | Odds | Spread | Totals |
|---|---|---|---|
| UC Irvine | -110 | -5.5 | O144 |
| Long Beach State | -110 | +5.5 | U144 |
Game Preview
The Anteaters (17-9, 10-4 Big West) are on pace to secure a regular-season title as long as they keep winning. They are 2-2 to begin February, beating CSUB and CUSF while losing to UCSB and Cal Poly. UC Irvine ranks fifth in blocks (6.0), third in field goal percentage defense (37.8) and ninth in defensive rebounds (28.88). Kyle Evans has played a major role in the blocking department, leading the country in total blocks (87) and block average (3.35). Meanwhile, Jurian Dixon tops the scoring chart with 15.5 points and 3.3 rebounds per contest.
The Beach (8-18, 4-10 Big West) have immensely struggled throughout league play, losing their last seven games. Gavin Sykes has been a remarkably bright spot on the squad this season. Returning from a three-game absence due to injury, he is averaging 18.6 points per game in conference play as the third-best scorer in the entire league. He also earned recognition as a nominee for the Kyle Macy Award, given annually to the top freshman in the nation, an award that was given to Cooper Flagg of Duke last season.
UC Irvine vs Long Beach State Head-to-Head
The two programs have had 45 meetings in their history, and the result is 28-17 for the Anteaters. The last matchup was in January this year when UC Irvine won 74-64 at home.
UC Irvine vs Long Beach State Predictions
UC Irvine may be the visiting squad, but they still hold the upper hand with how much Long Beach State has struggled. The seven-game losing streak has presented many concerns throughout the Beach roster, having the favorability go to the Anteaters with how potent they are on the defensive side of the ball. Our betting pick here is the Anteaters to defend a 5.5-point spread.
- Free NCAAB pick: UC Irvine Anteaters -5.5
NCAAB
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