Expert prediction
NCAA First Round: Prairie View A&M vs Florida Preview, Odds, Predictions (March 20)
Pick rationale
Analysis & key factors
- The Panthers took down Lehigh in the First Four round.
- The Gators seek to defend their national title.
- This marks the first all-time matchup between the two squads.
The night hours of the first round of the 2026 NCAA Tournament will be active on March 18 as the Prairie View A&M Panthers take on the Florida Gators. The Gators shine as the dominant favorite, presenting a matchup that will decide who advances to the Round of 32.
How to Watch
- When: Friday, March 20, 9:25 pm ET
- Where: Benchmark International Arena, Tampa, Florida
- How to Watch: TNT
NCAA Matchup Odds & Lines
| Team | Odds | Spread | Totals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prairie View A&M | -111 | +35.5 | O154 |
| Florida | -109 | -35.5 | U154 |
Game Preview
The Panthers (19-17) are riding high with eight consecutive wins as they won the SWAC Championship and beat Lehigh in the First Four round. This allowed them to get to the Round of 64, continuing their run for at least one more game. Dontae Horne delivered a game-high 25 points, adding seven rebounds and four steals in a standout all-around effort. Cory Wells recorded a double-double with 19 points and 11 rebounds to help the Panthers obtain the win.
The Gators (26-7) suffered a stunning exit from the SEC Tournament after falling to Vanderbilt in the semifinals. They were rolling with a win streak of 12 consecutive games, which ended in shocking fashion after their display against the Commodores. Thomas Haugh leads the attack with averages of 17.1 points and 6.2 rebounds per game. Meanwhile, Alex Condon and Reuben Chinyelu stand out as double-double threats. Condon produces 15 points and 7.7 rebounds, while Chinyelu provides 11.2 points and 11.5 rebounds per contest.
Prairie View A&M vs Florida Head-to-Head
This marks the first matchup between Prairie View A&M and Florida throughout their respective histories.
Prairie View A&M vs Florida Predictions
The winner of this game will face the victors between Clemson and Iowa on Sunday, March 22. Prairie View A&M is playing with house money as they look to provide their best effort against the defending national champions. The Gators seek to defend their throne, and putting up a statement win would present their case to be deserving of that conversation. Our betting pick here is for the Gators to defend a 35.5-point spread.
- Free NCAAB pick: Florida Gators -35.5
NCAAB
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