lTennessee Opens as Favorites Against UCLA in NCAA Tournament Round of 32
The No. 2 seed Tennessee Volunteers are set to face the No. 7 seed UCLA Bruins in the Round of 32 of the NCAA Tournament, with the Vols opening as the betting favorites. After an impressive first-round victory, Tennessee looks to continue its strong tournament run against a talented but inconsistent UCLA squad.
Led by SEC Player of the Year Dalton Knecht, Tennessee boasts one of the most balanced teams in the country, with a stifling defense and an efficient offense that can score in multiple ways. Head coach Rick Barnes has built a disciplined team that thrives on physicality and three-point shooting, making them a tough matchup for any opponent. The Vols will look to control the tempo and use their defensive intensity to disrupt UCLA’s rhythm.
UCLA, on the other hand, has had an up-and-down season but possesses the talent to challenge Tennessee. Head coach Mick Cronin’s team is known for its defensive toughness and ability to grind out games in the half-court. The Bruins will rely on their experienced core to counter Tennessee’s physicality and attempt to slow down Knecht, who has been one of the nation’s most dynamic scorers this season.
Oddsmakers favor Tennessee due to their consistency throughout the season and their ability to dominate defensively. However, March Madness is known for its unpredictability, and UCLA has the pedigree to pull off an upset if they can control the pace and execute in clutch moments.
With a trip to the Sweet 16 on the line, this matchup promises to be a physical, high-stakes battle. Tennessee enters as the favorite, but UCLA has the tools to make things interesting in what should be a thrilling contest.
