The second game of Wednesday’s First Four doubleheader features UC San Diego and Southern, two programs looking to make history with a tournament win. Unlike the Iowa State-Princeton matchup, this game has two teams that want to push the pace and turn defense into offense. With a spot in the main bracket up for grabs, expect an intense battle.
Matchup Overview
- Date: Wednesday, March 19
- Time: 9 PM ET
- Location: Pauley Pavilion, Los Angeles, CA
- Broadcast: ESPNU
- Spread: UC San Diego -2.5
- Total: O/U 112.5
‣ UC San Diego Matchup Details
UC San Diego comes into this game with a 20-10 record and a well-balanced offensive attack. The Tritons score 70 points per game and rely heavily on their perimeter shooting to stretch defenses. They move the ball well and get contributions from multiple players, but their go-to scorer is Gracie Gallegos. She’s coming off a 24-point performance and has been the team’s most consistent offensive threat.
‣ How Southern Matches Up
Southern, with an 18-13 record, is a streaky offensive team that can be dangerous when they get hot. The Jaguars rely on fast breaks and second-chance opportunities to generate points. Their aggressive, pressure-heavy defense is their biggest weapon, as they force turnovers and try to disrupt their opponent’s rhythm. However, they sometimes struggle in the half-court, making it crucial that they dictate tempo in this game. Their leader, Tionna Lidge, is a double-double machine and will be Southern’s most important player if they want to pull off the win.
‣ Keys to the Game
This game is projected to be close, with UC San Diego favored by 2.5 points. The total is set at a low 112.5, indicating that oddsmakers expect a defensive struggle. However, both teams aim to push the pace, so look for potential transition opportunities that could lead to higher scoring than anticipated.
For UC San Diego, their perimeter shooting will be crucial. If they can consistently hit outside shots, it will stretch Southern’s defense and create driving lanes for their scorers. Gracie Gallegos has been the Tritons’ most reliable offensive weapon; her ability to score and facilitate will be pivotal for UCSD’s success.
On the Southern side, they will need to focus on creating fast-break opportunities and capitalizing on second-chance points. Their aggressive defense should aim to force turnovers, which can lead to quick scores. The Jaguars must also find a way to contain Gallegos while ensuring they effectively utilize their offensive strengths to keep pace with UC San Diego.
‣ Predictions
Expect this to be a tight contest with momentum swings on both sides, but UC San Diego’s discipline and outside shooting could be the difference. Southern’s pressure defense will cause problems, but if UC San Diego can take care of the ball, they should pull this one out.
Betting Breakdown & Best Bets
🔅Spread: UC San Diego -2.5 → The Tritons’ balanced offense and perimeter defense should give them the edge.
🔅Total: Over 112.5 → Both teams will push the pace, and this game could get into the 60s.
🔅Player Prop: Gracie Gallegos Over 15.5 Points → She’s on fire lately and will be the primary offensive weapon for UCSD.
🔅Final Prediction: UC San Diego 70, Southern 66
Expect a back-and-forth battle, but UC San Diego’s discipline and outside shooting should secure them the win.
Which side are you rolling with? Will UC San Diego’s shooting be the difference, or is Southern’s defense built for the moment? Let me know your best bet for this one! #WMarchMadness #NCAAW #WFIRSTFour #SportsJuiceWithJu #Madness #SportsJuiceLounge #BetWithJuBoogie #WomensBasketball
-Juju
