NCAA Basketball Picks: UNLV vs. California

The schedule makers were kind to the 21st ranked UNLV Rebels (6-1) as they pay a visit to California. The California Bears (6-1) come limping into this game after their 1st loss of the season.

Can California come off of an embarrassing loss and avoid losing 2 in a row? The schedule doesn't get much easier and UNLV will have their 2nd leading scorer and leading rebounder Mike Moser back in the lineup. Moser missed UNLV's last game, a 68-60 win in his home town of Portland, but will be ready to go after a hip injury that forced him out.

Tip-off is scheduled for Sunday at 6:00 pm ET at the Haas Pavilion in Berkeley, California.

This game can also be seen on ESPN University.

5 Dimes Sportsbook currently lists California as a 1 point betting favorite and the total for this game is 147.

Bennett and Moser

This sounds like a law firm but make no mistake about it, UNLV relies upon the combination of forwards Anthony Bennett and Mike Moser to lead the team offensively, protect the glass and be an obstruction on defense.

Anthony Bennett's stay at UNLV might be a short one as this super freshman has gotten off to a quick start in his collegiate career and will be a pro prospect. Bennett came up strong against Portland in Mike Moser's absence. He accounted for 18 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 steals. On the season, his numbers are basically similar. Look for Anthony Bennett to have a major impact in a hostile Haas Pavilion.

UNLV will also be hoping that Mike Moser is near 100%. Although California is coming off of a poor loss to Wisky, they're still a dangerous team at home with some legitimate offensive threats. Moser averages nearly a double-double at 12.3 points and 9.2 rebounds per game. His shooting has taken somewhat of a dramatic drop from last year to just 39.1% from the field but his presence is essential on the defensive end as California sports one of the leading scorers in the nation in Allen Crabbe. Will the honorable mention All American be able to hinder the play of the offensive machines known as Allen Crabbe and Justin Cobbs?

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The next Reggie Miller

Guard Allen Crabbe, sports some similar traits to that of NBA Hall of Fame sharpshooter Reggie Miller. Both are California guys, similar in stature, can light it up from outside, and are automatic from the free throw line. Even in defeat, Crabbe stayed consistent as he poured in 25 points to go along with 7 rebounds and 2 steals. On the season, he's averaging 22.4 points and 5.7 rebounds per game. Crabbe is a 52.5 % shooter from the field and 43.2% from beyond the arc. The question is, can Justin Cobbs bounce back from a poor performance because Crabbe is unflappable? 

Cobbs is having an exceptional season at 18.7 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game. He's also shooting 58.9% from the field and 89.1% from the free throw line. This isn't a team that has to worry late in games as long as Crabbe or Cobbs keep the basketball in their hands

Cobbs is coming off of a 11 point performance against Wisconsin in where he shot just 3 of 10 from the field. Expect a better outing at home.

Outcome

Expect a high scoring game in which there are various offensive threats. UNLV is averaging 80 points per game and should be effective against Cal. Take the OVER in this spot.

Free NCAAB Pick: UNLV/California OVER 147