Georgia vs. Gonzaga March Madness Preview and Prediction
In the No. 9 vs. No. 8 matchup in the NCAA Tournament Midwest Region, the Georgia Bulldogs face the Gonzaga Bulldogs in first-round action.
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How to Watch Georgia vs. Gonzaga
When: 4:35 p.m. ET on Thursday, March 20th
Where: INTRUST Bank Arena in Wichita, Kansas
Watch: TBS
Odds for Georgia vs. Gonzaga
(odds current at time of publish)
Spread: Gonzaga -6.5 (-102), Georgia +6.5 (-118)
Total: Over 150.5 (-110), Under 150.5 (-110)
DraftKings Betting Splits | Live College Basketball Odds | Georgia vs. Gonzaga Matchup Page
Georgia vs. Gonzaga Preview & Prediction
Georgia basketball is back in the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2015, a testament to the turnaround led by Michael White. After a dismal 6-26 record under Tom Crean, White quickly revitalized the program, leading the Bulldogs to a .500 record last season and now a tournament berth. While Georgia benefited from the strength of the SEC, their defensive prowess helped secure their spot, ranking in the top 35 in eFG% defense. Offensively, they thrive on the glass and at the free-throw line but struggle from deep.
Despite only a 4-11 record in Quadrant 1 games and an early SEC Tournament exit, Georgia’s defense gives them a chance to compete. Market sentiment has leaned against them, with bettors favoring their opponent, Gonzaga. However, the Bulldogs from Athens have held their own against high-powered offenses in the SEC, and this neutral-site game in Wichita could be closer than expected.
Gonzaga, under Mark Few, is a tournament mainstay, making its 25th consecutive appearance. Though this is their lowest seed since 2016, past teams in similar spots have made deep runs. The ‘Zags boast a top-15 ranking per Bart Torvik and KenPom but were penalized for losses to top-tier opponents like UConn, Kentucky, and Saint Mary’s.
Statistically, this Gonzaga team mirrors past versions, though they play at a slightly slower pace and struggle from 3, ranking outside the top 100 in 3P% for the first time since 2010. However, they compensate with elite ball security, posting their lowest turnover rate of the Few era. Defensively, they’ve also made strides, ranking at their highest adjusted efficiency in three years.
Early betting action favored Gonzaga, and given their postseason pedigree, it’s easy to see why. If they get past Georgia, a second-round clash with Houston looms—a brutal draw for a team of this caliber. If they can get hot from beyond the arc, the ‘Zags have the potential to go much further.
Estimated Score: Gonzaga 80, Georgia 74
For expert predictions, go to our college basketball best bets page.
