UAB vs UC Irvine

UAB center Marcus “Steel Wall” Green is still nursing a minor ankle issue (C), which adds to the Blazers’ frustration as they endure a three-game losing streak heading into this matchup against a UC Irvine squad riding a four-game hot streak. Even with UAB’s guard play showing flashes of brilliance, the Anteaters’ sharpshooting duo—led by Nick Chambers, who routinely lights up the scoreboard whenever he faces the Blazers—makes the home team dangerous, particularly since the postseason looms after more than 41 games for both sides. UC Irvine’s relatively clean bill of health also tips the balance, giving the Anteaters solid momentum as they aim for a deeper postseason push. Although the -205 odds mean a moderate return, the confidence level for this outcome is high, deserving a B+ rating.

UAB’s energetic guard Avery Jackson, looking to snap his squad’s two-game skid, enters with a chip on his shoulder against UC Irvine, who rides a three-game tear and aims to maintain momentum. With the Blazers missing their starting forward Mark Russell to a knee strain, Jackson’s offensive load increases, while the Anteaters lean on Ray Thompson’s inside dominance, a proven threat who’s scored heavily against UAB in past encounters. Meanwhile, UC Irvine’s lethal backcourt production, fueled by an injury-free lineup, adds an extra layer of offensive depth. The total of 160.5 looks ripe for an offensive outpour, and at +115 odds, the potential return makes it particularly enticing, earning a solid B+ rating based on likely scoring fireworks and a respectable payout if it hits.

UC Irvine, fresh off a three-game winning streak, looks hungrier than ever behind its top-scoring lineup (confirmed active via ESPN) and faces a UAB squad stumbling through consecutive losses. With no major injuries plaguing the Anteaters, they appear set to exploit the Blazers’ depleted rotation, whose leading forward remains day-to-day. Historically, UC Irvine has capitalized on home-court advantage in conference matchups, posting strong numbers against squads with defensive gaps like UAB. Despite the Blazers’ scrappy guard play, expect the Anteaters to cover the spread with solid payoff potential for bettors.