The 11th-seeded Providence Friars (21-11) take on the 6-seed Kentucky Wildcats (21-11) in the first round of the NCAA Tournament in Greensboro, N.C., Friday at 7:10 p.m. ET (CBS). Below, we analyze Tipico Sportsbook’s lines around the Providence vs. Kentucky odds, and make our expert college basketball picks, predictions and best bets.
Providence is led by Kentucky transfer F Bryce Hopkins, who averages 16.1 points, 8.5 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game. Hopkins has lifted a Friars team which lost 3 of its top 5 scorers off last season's team.
Kentucky finished 4th in'SEC this season behind Oscar Tshiebwe, who' patrols the center for the Wildcats and averaged 16.5 points and 13.1 rebounds per game.
Check out: USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll