Longwood vs Tennessee Prediction: Trusting Isaiah Wilkins to Score

Longwood vs Tennessee Prediction: Trusting Isaiah Wilkins to Score

Tennessee isn't the only team coming in hot though. They’ve won 19 of their last 20 games including a dominant 20 point victory over Winthrop to secure their spot in the tournament. Longwood is a very solid team, but they are stepping up a leg in competition. While not having a player over 6’8" may not hurt them during the regular season, it will in March. 

Overall I think this game is the start of a nice tournament run for Tennessee but I'm not willing to take them on the spread either at 18. I would rather play the over 132, for a very simple reason. I don't believe Longwood will be able to slow Tennessee down on the offensive side of things, but they have shown they can stick around in these games.

The only power five teams they encountered this season were Iowa and Georgetown, and while those aren't the most comparable teams in the world, seeing both totals go way over is a good sign for us. 

Click here for the best sportsbook offers available in your state

Isaiah Wilkins Points o10.5 Points +100 (Bet $100 to win $100)

I think we are undervaluing Wilkins here, possibly due to the lack of name-value on Longwood. The 6’4" senior guard was someone this team relied on progressing through the tournament, scoring 15, 13, and 19 points in those games. On the season, he's averaging 12.8 points, and hit this number in their matchups against Georgetown and Iowa. 

I understand Tennessee has a very good defense, but this isn't a play on that. I project Tennessee going up around 10-15 points early, forcing Longwood in a position where they need to focus up offensively and score more. I believe when that occurs, leaning on the senior leadership that got them there will be the game plan. Wilkins isn't the flashiest player in the world, but I think he gets the job done right here.

Bet $5 on the MONEYLINE for either Tennessee or Longwood and win $200 if your team wins