March Madness is here, and the NCAA Tournament officially tips off with the First Four games. One of the opening matchups features the Alabama State Hornets taking on the Saint Francis Red Flash at 6:40 p.m. ET on Tuesday.
This game is historic for both programs—Alabama State returns to the tournament for the first time in 14 years, while Saint Francis is making its first appearance in 35 years. With a chance to face Auburn in the first round on the line, expect a competitive and high-energy battle.
Alabama State vs. St. Francis (PA) Betting Preview
All Alabama State vs. Saint Francis (PA) odds are from DraftKings Sportsbook and are correct as of Friday, March 15, 2025.
- Spread: Alabama State -3.5
- Moneyline: Alabama State -180, Saint Francis (PA) +150
- Over/Under: 138.5 points
- Game Time: Tuesday, March 18 | 6:40 p.m. ET
- Location: UD Arena | Dayton, Ohio
- How to Watch: truTV, streaming on Max
Alabama State enters the game as a slight favorite, with a -3.5 spread suggesting a close contest. Saint Francis has been on a roll, cashing in on the moneyline in their last six games (+12.30 units), while Alabama State has consistently hit the team total under in 15 of their last 19 games (+10.45 units).
ALABAMA STATE IS GOING DANCING 👏
The Hornets swarm Jackson State and punch their ticket to the NCAA tournament for the first time in 14 years 😤 pic.twitter.com/JFA35GPoH0
— ESPN (@espn) March 16, 2025
SportsLine’s model projects the total to go Over 138.5, estimating a combined score of 143 points. Bettors should take note of both teams’ recent betting trends when making their picks.
Alabama State vs. Saint Francis (PA) CSN Winning Probability
- CSN Winning Probability: Alabama State 56.3%, St. Francis (PA) 43.7%
The CSN model slightly favors Alabama State, aligning with Vegas odds but showing that this game could go either way. While the Hornets have a statistical edge, St. Francis has been a solid underdog performer in recent matchups. This suggests that a close finish is likely.
Prediction for Alabama State vs. Saint Francis (PA)
This First Four showdown presents an intriguing contrast in styles. Alabama State leans on defense and a methodical offensive approach, as evidenced by their frequent team total unders. Meanwhile, Saint Francis has been playing efficient basketball, particularly in crunch-time situations.
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Key players to watch include the Hornets’ leading scorer, who will need to step up against a Red Flash team that has momentum on its side. Saint Francis will aim to keep the game up-tempo, utilizing their recent offensive efficiency to challenge the Hornets’ defense.
Ultimately, Alabama State’s defensive edge and experience in tight games should prove to be the difference. Expect the Hornets to control the tempo and advance to face Auburn in the next round.
Prediction: Alabama State 72, Saint Francis (PA) 68
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