Cincinnati vs Kansas Odds, Pick for Wednesday

The upcoming Big 12 tournament clash between the Cincinnati Bearcats and the Kansas Jayhawks is shaping up to be a riveting contest, with a point spread projecting a close matchup.

Set at T-Mobile Center on a neutral court, this showdown pits two formidable teams against each other, each boasting their unique strengths and weaknesses that could tip the scales in this closely-watched matchup.

The Bearcats have had a season of strong performances, particularly on the defensive end. With a 23rd-ranked Adjusted Defensive Efficiency, their defense has been their cornerstone, supporting them through less than stellar offensive outings.

Their ability to limit opponents' effective field goal percentage (60th) while also excelling in defensive rebounding (38th) showcases a team that can effectively end opponents' possessions without second-chance points.

However, the offensive side tells a different story. Despite an admirable 70th-ranking in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency, their struggles are evident in their effective field goal percentage (194th) and free-throw rate (297th), hinting at challenges in converting scoring opportunities into points.

The Jayhawks bring a more balanced approach to the game.

Offensively, they stand out with a 47th-ranking in Adjusted Efficiency and a commendable effective field goal percentage (45th).

Their decent ability to maintain possession (141st in TO%) and a moderate performance in free-throw rate (164th) and percentage (140th) indicate a team that, while not overpowering, is efficient enough.

Defensively, Kansas shines even brighter. An impressive 11th in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency underscores its capability to stifle opposing offenses.

Coupled with a solid defensive rebounding (61st), the Jayhawks demonstrate a strong defensive unit capable of contesting shots and securing boards.

Given the strengths and weaknesses of both teams, the betting angle that offers the most intriguing prospect is the under.

While both teams have shown they can defend, the contrast in offensive efficiency and the notable gap in their ability to convert plays into points — especially on the Cincinnati side — makes taking under 137.5 points an appealing bet.

This game, poised to be a battle of defenses, is likely to see both teams struggling to reach a high-scoring total.

Kansas' more balanced approach and slightly better offensive efficiency suggest it could find ways to score against Cincinnati's robust defense, but without guard Kevin McCullar Jr. and center Hunter Dickinson, the Jayhawks will struggle to find offensive power.

Cincinnati's offensive woes — highlighted by its poor effective field goal and free-throw percentages — indicate it'll struggle to attack the elite Kansas defense.

In a matchup that seems destined to highlight defensive prowess over offensive firepower, betting on a lower-scoring affair aligns with the statistical trends and narrative elements at play, making under 137.5 points the best recommendation for this showdown.

Pick: Under 137.5