Picks for 2/13/24
College Basketball
6:30 PM EST
Rotation #601
Marquette -4.5 over Butler (win)
Marquette is the overall superior team in this matchup. The Golden Eagles are better on offense and defense and have played a more challenging non-conference schedule. Sometimes, teams that play weaker non-conference schedules have inflated stats due to beating up on lesser teams, but it’s not the case with Marquette. The Golden Eagles are one of the rare teams that didn’t dip into the transfer portal and consist of players familiar with each other. Butler upset Marquette in the earlier matchup after the Golden Eagles fell asleep after a big first-half lead. Look for Tyler Kolek to lead the way and return the favor on Butler’s home court. Take Marquette.
College Basketball
7:000 PM EST
Rotation #611
St. John’s +1.5 over Providence (loss)
St. John’s got out to a double-digit halftime lead in the prior matchup a month ago, lost it, got it back, and held off the Friars in an outstanding matchup. Providence is a good defensive team but needs more offense, so it will be hard for them to create separation. Both teams turned over a new leaf with coaching changes. Rick Pitino did an outstanding job in the transfer portal to make the Red Storm competitive. St. John’s is 1-5 on the road, but it’s been against the best teams in the BIG East. The Red Storm needs a few road wins to make the NCAA Tournament. Joel Soriano is the only significant player to return from a season ago and must be a factor on the boards. Take St. John’s