An exciting opening-round NCAA Tournament matchup will see the 10th-seeded New Mexico Lobos (26-7) face off against the No. 7 seed Marquette Golden Eagles (23-10) on Friday at Rocket Arena in Cleveland, Ohio.
With both teams boasting high-powered offenses and tough defenses, this game will showcase some of the best individual talent in the tournament. Marquette enters as the favorite, but New Mexico’s Mountain West Conference Player of the Year, Donovan Dent, is ready to make a statement.
New Mexico vs. Marquette Betting Preview
All New Mexico vs. Marquette odds are from DraftKings Sportsbook and are correct as of Friday, March 21, 2025.
- Spread: Marquette -4.5
- Moneyline: New Mexico +150, Marquette -185
- Over/Under: 152.5 points
- Game Time: Friday, March 21, 2025, 7:25 PM ET
- Location: Rocket Arena | Cleveland, OH
- How To Watch: TBS
Marquette comes into this matchup as a 4.5-point favorite. They’ve been favored by 3.5 points or more 24 times this season, covering the spread in 13 of those contests. However, New Mexico has been strong against the spread this season, with 15 wins compared to 17 losses.
The Lobos’ freewheeling offense, led by Donovan Dent (20.6 PPG), could give Marquette’s defense a challenge. This game is expected to be high-scoring, with an over/under of 152.5 points.
Marquette’s Stevie Mitchell, a Naismith Defensive Player of the Year semifinalist, will likely draw the tough assignment of defending Dent, while Marquette’s defense looks to control the pace and limit New Mexico’s shooting opportunities.
The Golden Eagles will lean on their defensive abilities and disciplined play, while New Mexico will look to outgun them with their aggressive offense.
New Mexico vs. Marquette CSN Winning Probability
Marquette holds a slight edge in the CSN winning probability, which aligns closely with Vegas’ point spread of -4.5. The Golden Eagles have been solid all season, particularly in their defense, but New Mexico’s ability to score in bunches, particularly with Dent’s leadership, gives them a good chance to keep this game competitive.
The winner will earn the right to play the winner of the Bryant vs. Michigan State game in the next round.
KEEP READING: March Madness Fun Facts: Surprising Stats and Records You Need To Know
Prediction for New Mexico vs. Marquette
This matchup could go either way, but Marquette’s defensive strength, led by Mitchell and their balanced attack, gives them the advantage. The Golden Eagles should be able to control the tempo and make the key stops needed to hold off New Mexico’s offense.
However, if Dent can break through Mitchell’s defense and get going early, New Mexico could create problems for Marquette’s game plan.
Marquette’s defense will hold strong enough to secure a win, but New Mexico will put up a fight, keeping the game close throughout.
Prediction: Marquette 79, New Mexico 73
Don’t miss a moment of March Madness! Download your 2025 NCAA Tournament printable bracket and stay on top of every game, matchup, and Cinderella story. Get yours now!
