CBB

Western Carolina vs Mercer

Hungry underdogs meet a formidable favorite

Western Carolina

Catamounts (4-14-8-21) VS Bears (6-12-13-18)

Mar 07, 2025 | 17:00 ET | Hawkins Arena

Mercer
Moneyline Pick: Mercer (-305) - B+

Mercer’s backcourt enters this contest riding a recent three-game winning streak, while Western Carolina is desperate to snap its two-game skid. The Catamounts’ center (C) remains doubtful with a lingering knee issue, limiting the team’s interior defense against the Bears’ dynamic guard rotation. Historically, Mercer’s star point guard has averaged double figures against Western Carolina, and that edge could be decisive as both squads approach the playoff threshold of over 41 games played. Despite a modest payout, the strong likelihood of a Mercer victory earns this pick a B+ for reliability and worthwhile returns.

Over/Under Pick: Over 153.5, (+105) - A
Western Carolina’s dynamic forward enters this game with a chip on his shoulder after a tough three-game losing streak, and he aims to spark a scoring run against Mercer’s defense. Meanwhile, Mercer—hungry to break out of its own two-game skid—will rely on its high-scoring trio, even though their starting point guard remains questionable with a nagging wrist injury. Both squads feature sharpshooters who historically light up the scoreboard when facing each other, creating a recipe for a fast-paced shootout. Anticipate an up-tempo contest fueled by star players attacking the basket and draining threes, which should push the combined total well above the posted line. This wager earns an A because of its strong potential and enticing payout, so brace yourselves for a scoring frenzy!
Spread Pick: Western Carolina, +7 (-110) - B
In hopes of turning around a two-game skid, Western Carolina’s Tyzhaun Claude looks ready to lead the Catamounts against a Mercer squad that has also dropped its last contest and sits at 6-12 in conference (13-18 overall). Western Carolina, at 4-14 in conference (8-21 overall), may be without guard Tre Jackson due to a nagging ankle issue, while Mercer’s Jalyn McCreary has recently returned but still appears limited in practice. Historically, the Catamounts have held their own in tight matchups within the Southern Conference, often pushing favored teams to the brink on the road. Given these factors, taking the +7 with Western Carolina earns a B rating, indicating a solid chance to cover and some decent winnings if they do.
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