CBB MARQUEE TOP 25 MATCHUP
- Handicapper
- Wayne Root
- League
- NCAAB
- Competition
- Arizona vs Alabama
- Release Date
- 12/12/2025 09:57 PM
- Event Date
- 12/13/2025 09:38 PM
- Bet Type
- Point Spread
- Pick
-
Arizona -1.5 (-110)
(Consensus Line)
- Outcome
- Win
- Analysis
- Root Reserve on Arizona
Arizona looks like the right side here laying -1.5, especially given how dominant they’ve been against top-tier opponents. Their most recent game was a 97–68 rout of Auburn on December 6, where freshman Koa Peat scored 18 points and Jaden Bradley added 16. The Wildcats shot nearly 60% inside the arc and controlled the boards, showing off their balance and efficiency. Arizona averages 88.5 points per game while shooting 53.1% from the field, and their frontcourt duo of Motiejus Krivas and Tobe Awaka gives them the size to battle inside while Peat and Bradley provide scoring versatility. With multiple double-digit wins already against ranked teams, Arizona has proven they can dictate tempo and overwhelm opponents with their depth. Alabama, meanwhile, is coming off a 97–55 win over UTSA on December 7, where Jalil Bethea scored 21 points and Labaron Philon added 20. The Crimson Tide buried 14 threes and forced 18 turnovers, but they were also missing Aden Holloway and Taylor Bol Bowen due to injuries. Alabama averages 95.1 points per game, but they also allow nearly 79 points per game, which is a dangerous profile against Arizona’s efficiency. While Philon and Holloway form one of the nation’s best backcourts, the Tide’s reliance on perimeter shooting leaves them vulnerable when shots aren’t falling. Against Arizona’s disciplined defense and ability to score inside and out, laying -1.5 feels justified — the Wildcats have the more complete roster and should be able to grind out a win in Birmingham.
