Let’s face it: UNLV isn’t likely to topple the powerhouse that is Kansas on Thursday. The Rebels will enter the game as massive underdogs, something that has not been kind to them, as UNLV is 0-10 SU and 2-8 ATS in its past 10 games as dogs.
Kansas has been on an absolute tear since losing its season opener, as the Jayhawks have won 10 straight with an average scoring margin of plus-21.5. Senior guard Frank Mason III is in the player of the year conversation, averaging 20.3 points, 5.6 assists and 4.6 rebounds while shooting over 50 percent from the floor and beyond the arc. It took some time for freshman Josh Jackson to get the feel for playing under Bill Self, but he has averaged 18 points and 8.7 rebounds in the past three.
UNLV has played well considering first-year head coach Marvin Menzies had to fill several key roster spots upon his hiring. Jalen Poyser has been the star for the Rebels, as he leads the team in points, assists and 3-pointers.
Sportsbook Odds & Computer Pick
Odds makers at sportsbooks such as Sportsbook had set the UNLV Rebels as 19.5-point underdogs on the Sportsbook betting line for this contest. The betting line may have moved, check for updates at shops such as Sportsbook.
Kansas Jayhawks vs UNLV Rebels Matchup
Team Betting Records & Power Rankings
Supporters of the Kansas Jayhawks have watched them go 10-1 and 4-5 ATS on the college basketball season, while the UNLV Rebels are at 7-5 and 7-5 ATS. In totals betting, the UNLV Rebels are 6-6, while the Kansas Jayhawks have a 5-4 mark.
The Odds Shark Power Rankings have the UNLV Rebels at No. 90 and the Kansas Jayhawks at No. 19 heading into this college basketball betting matchup.
Statistical Matchup
The game also pits UNLV's No. 155-ranked offense, averaging 74.08 PPG, against a Jayhawks defense that ranks No. 113 at 68.82 PPG. The Rebels field goal percentage has averaged 43.52% so far, less than the Jayhawks marksmen have achieved on the year, 52.39% per game.
Recent Outings Betting Recap
The Jayhawks got 18 points from Josh Jackson as Kansas ran past Davidson 89-71 on Saturday at Sprint Center.
The Rebels grabbed a 68-61 win over the Salukis on Monday, behind a 23-point effort from Tyrell Green at Thomas & Mack Center.
Next Betting Matchups
Kansas at TCU, Friday, December 30th
UNLV at Colorado State, Wednesday, December 28th