NIT Second Round: Liberty vs Nevada Preview, Odds, Predictions (March 21)
- The Flames dispatched George Mason in the Round of 32.
- The Wolf Pack took down Murray State in the first round.
- This marks the first all-time matchup between the two squads.
The March 21 schedule of the NIT second round concludes with a matchup between the Liberty Flames take on the Nevada Wolf Pack. The latter stands tall as the slight favorite, presenting a chance for intriguing matchups to form in the later rounds.
How to Watch
- When: Saturday, March 21, 9 pm ET
- Where: Lawlor Events Center, Reno, Nevada
- How to Watch: ESPN+
NCAA Matchup Odds & Lines
| Team | Odds | Spread | Totals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberty | -110 | +7.5 | O147 |
| Nevada | -110 | -7.5 | U147 |
Game Preview
The Flames (26-7) stand out as one of the last 16 teams left in the NIT, getting past George Mason in convincing fashion during the NIT first round. Josh Smith led the Flames with a season-high of 23 points along with nine rebounds. Brett Decker Jr. added 17 points, and Zander Carter obtained career highs in points (10) and rebounds (6). Colin Porter also made his impact in the offense with 10 points. Zach Cleveland added nine points, seven assists, and six rebounds, while JJ Harper had eight points, three assists, and three blocks.
The Wolf Pack (23-12) were victorious in the opening round of the NIT, taking down Murray State to reach the Round of 16. Vaughn Weems led the Pack offense with 23 points while adding five rebounds. Weems was followed by 17 points and one rebound shy of a career high in rebounds with eight. Elijah Price controlled the glass, leading the team with 13 rebounds, including 12 on the defensive end.
Liberty vs Nevada Head-to-Head
The two programs are facing each other for the first time in their respective histories.
Liberty vs Nevada Predictions
The winner will face either Auburn/Seattle U on either Tuesday or Wednesday, March 24-25, in the quarterfinals of the NIT. Liberty has the offense that can make Nevada’s defense vulnerable, having this showdown an intriguing one to see which style of play prevails at the final buzzer. Our betting pick here is for the Liberty to cover a 7.5-point spread.
- Free NCAAB pick: Liberty Flames +7.5
