Expert prediction
NIT First Round: Dayton vs Bradley Preview, Odds, Predictions (March 18)
Pick rationale
Analysis & key factors
- The Braves made their 25th NIT appearance in program history.
- The Flyers lost to VCU in the 2026 A-10 Title game.
- This marks the 12th all-time matchup between the two squads.
The NIT first round remains active throughout the March 18 schedule as the Bradley Braves duel against the Dayton Flyers. The latter stands tall as the slight favorite, presenting a solid matchup for mid-major basketball fans.
How to Watch
- When: Wednesday, March 18, 9 pm ET
- Where: Carver Arena, Peoria, Illinois
- How to Watch: ESPNU
NCAA Matchup Odds & Lines
| Team | Odds | Spread | Totals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dayton | -112 | +2.5 | O141.5 |
| Bradley | -108 | -2.5 | U141.5 |
Game Preview
The Flyers (23-11) made an incredible run in the Atlantic 10 Tournament this season. They advanced to the championship game of the 2026 A-10 tourney, falling to VCU 70-62. On their way to the title game, the Flyers defeated top seeded Saint Louis in the semifinals. Javon Bennett commands the attack with averages of 16.4 points, 2.9 assists and 2.3 rebounds per contest. Meanwhile, Amael L’Etang looks to be impactful with 12.1 points and 5.8 rebounds and 1.2 blocks per game.
The Braves (21-12) pulled off their fourth consecutive year of qualifying for the NIT. It’s a feat the program has not accomplished since appearing four straight times in 1957, 1958, 1959, and 1960. They boast the nation’s seventh-best turnover margin at +4.2 per game and ranked in the top five in the MVC in scoring offense, scoring margin, three-point percentage, assist-to-turnover ratio, turnover margin, and steals. Jaquan Johnson finished as the runner-up for the 2026 Larry Bird Trophy this season, averaging 17.1 points, 3.9 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 2.5 steals per game.
Dayton vs Bradley Head-to-Head
The two programs have had 11 meetings in their history, and the result is 9-2 for the Braves. The last matchup was in December 1990 when Dayton won 91-81.
Dayton vs Bradley Predictions
This game presents a solid opportunity for either team to set the tone to start the game. Dayton possesses the talent to come out with big wins as they showed this season, but Bradley can make noise if they get a huge night from Jaquan Johnson. Our betting pick here is for the Flyers to cover a 2.5-point spread.
- Free NCAAB pick: Dayton Flyers +2.5
NCAAB
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