Expert prediction
NCAA First Four: Prairie View A&M vs Lehigh Preview, Odds, Predictions (March 18)
- Richard Pereira
- Mar 18, 2026 at 12:17 PM EDT
Pick rationale
Analysis & key factors
- The Panthers are rolling with seven consecutive wins
- The Mountain Hawks make their sixth NCAA Tournament appearance.
- This marks the first all-time matchup between the two squads.
The second half of the NCAA First Four round will commence on March 18 as the Prairie View A&M Panthers take on the Lehigh Mountain Hawks. The Panthers shine as the slight favorite, presenting a matchup that will decide who advances to the Round of 64.
How to Watch
- When: Wednesday, March 18, 6:40 pm ET
- Where: UD Arena, Dayton, Ohio
- How to Watch: truTV
NCAA Matchup Odds & Lines
| Team | Odds | Spread | Totals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prairie View A&M | -115 | -3 | O141 |
| Lehigh | -105 | +3 | U141 |
Game Preview
The Panthers (18-17) are riding high with seven consecutive wins as they won the SWAC Championship. This appearance marks the third NCAA Tournament berth in program history and continues a resurgent stretch for the Panthers on the national stage. The Panthers are powered by a dynamic offensive unit led by first-team All-SWAC, SWAC Tournament MVP and All-SWAC Tournament selection Dontae Horne, who averages 20.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game. He is joined by second-team All-SWAC honoree Tai’Reon Joseph, who contributes 18.2 points per contest.
The Mountain Hawks (18-16) secured their place in March Madness after beating Boston University to win the Patriots League Championship. Nasir Whitlock paced the Mountain Hawks offensively, scoring 18 points to go along with four assists, three rebounds, and a steal. Whitlock was named Tournament MVP. Joshua Ingram finished the night with 15 points, six rebounds, three triples, and two blocks.
Prairie View A&M vs Lehigh Head-to-Head
This marks the first matchup between Prairie View A&M and Lehigh throughout their respective histories.
Prairie View A&M vs Lehigh Predictions
The winner of this game will face No. 1 Florida on Friday, March 20 at 9:25 p.m. in Tampa, Florida. Prairie View A&M boasts an explosive attack with players who are not afraid to score the ball at will. Lehigh has been active with its NCAA Tournament contention but will have a tough objective in shutting down the Panthers’ offense. Our betting pick here is for the Panthers to defend a 3-point spread.
- Free NCAAB pick: Prairie View A&M Panthers -3
NCAAB
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