The Final Four is set, and two No. 1 seeds will battle for a spot in the national championship game as the Duke Blue Devils take on the Houston Cougars. Duke, led by freshman sensation Cooper Flagg, dismantled Alabama 85-65 in the East Region final to secure its place in San Antonio.
Meanwhile, Houston outlasted Tennessee in a defensive slugfest, proving once again why it boasts one of the toughest defenses in the nation.
Duke vs. Houston Betting Preview
This matchup features an elite offense against a suffocating defense. Duke’s ball movement and offensive efficiency will be tested against Houston’s ability to challenge every shot.
All Duke vs. Houston odds are from DraftKings Sportsbook and are correct as of Friday, April 5, 2025.
- Spread: Duke -4.5 (-115), Houston +4.5 (-105)
- Moneyline: Duke -205, Houston +170
- Over/Under: 136.5 (Over -110, Under -110)
- Game Time: Saturday, April 5, 2025, 8:49 p.m. ET
- Location: Alamodome, San Antonio, TX
- How to Watch: CBS
Houston’s defensive dominance was on full display in the Elite Eight, limiting Tennessee to just 50 points. The Cougars’ ability to close out on shooters and contest every possession makes them a dangerous underdog against a Duke team that thrives on efficient scoring.
However, the Blue Devils possess the most dynamic player in the country in Cooper Flagg, who can impact the game on both ends despite struggling with efficiency against Alabama.
Duke’s offensive firepower has been evident throughout the tournament, but Houston’s ability to hit timely shots, despite not relying heavily on three-pointers, makes this matchup intriguing.
Guard LJ Cryer, who rebounded from a quiet Sweet 16 game to lead Houston in scoring against Tennessee, will need to be at his best once again.
Duke vs. Houston CSN Winning Probability
- Duke: 62.3%
- Houston: 37.7%
Duke enters as the slight favorite according to Vegas odds, and CSN’s probability aligns with this assessment. The Blue Devils have been dominant offensively, but Houston’s defensive prowess keeps them within striking distance.
The Cougars’ winning percentage may seem low, but their ability to grind out wins in close games makes them a serious threat.
Prediction for Duke vs. Houston
This game will come down to execution. Duke’s ball movement and spacing will be challenged by Houston’s aggressive defense, but the Blue Devils’ superior offensive talent should give them an edge.
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The Cougars, led by Cryer, must limit turnovers and capitalize on second-chance opportunities to keep this one close.
Ultimately, expect a hard-fought battle where Duke’s offensive versatility and Cooper Flagg’s star power make the difference. Houston will make this a grind, but the Blue Devils should have just enough to secure their spot in the national championship game.
Prediction: Duke 70, Houston 67
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