Akron vs Arizona Odds, Prediction and March Madness Picks March 21

The No. 13 Akron Zips (28-6) take on the No. 4 Arizona Wildcats (25-9) in a fast-paced first-round matchup Friday night. The odds for March Madness on Friday list Arizona as a 15-point favorite with the Over/Under set at 167.

Akron has won 21 of its last 22 games and features a dangerous 3-point shooting attack. Arizona is led by Caleb Love and one of the highest-scoring offenses in the nation (81.7 PPG). Let’s get into some of my March Madness picks for Friday.

Akron vs Arizona Prediction Today, March 21

My prediction

Arizona has a clear talent and size advantage. Check the college basketball lines for Friday’s spread to see how much this matters. But the Wildcats have been inconsistent down the stretch (6-6 SU in their last 12 games). Akron is a well-coached, disciplined team that shoots the three extremely well (36.6%) and has a balanced scoring attack.

Arizona, consistently disappointing in the tourney, against Akron? There’s the upset. pic.twitter.com/fsJXTqfT1d

— Brian Johnson (@bdj79) March 16, 2025

While Arizona should advance, Akron’s perimeter shooting and experienced roster should keep this game close enough to cover the number.

Top 3 Akron vs Arizona Betting Picks

My top picks

1. Akron vs Arizona ATS Pick:  Akron +15
2. Akron vs Arizona O/U Pick: Under 167
3. Akron vs Arizona Best Point-scorer Bet: Caleb Love Over 20.5 points (-107)

My Analysis

Per NCAA betting tips, Arizona has struggled to cover big spreads (1-5-1 ATS in its last seven NCAA tourney games), making Akron a strong play at +15. Both teams rank in the top 20 in scoring, but 167 is an inflated total, given the inconsistency of the Wildcats. Akron plays fast, but Arizona’s size and rebounding edge could slow the game down, keeping this under 167.

Love is Arizona’s go-to scorer (16.6 PPG) and has a proven track record of stepping up in big games. Against an Akron defense that struggles against elite guards, he should have plenty of scoring opportunities in transition and half-court sets. Regarding March Madness games, I bet on Akron vs. Arizona being full of offense.

Akron vs Arizona March Madness Best Prop Bet

• Nate Johnson Over 4.5 Rebounds (-129)

Akron’s best all-around player, Nate Johnson, has cleared 4.5 boards in eight of his last 10 games. Arizona ranks 35th in rebounding but allows long rebounds due to its 3-point defense (33.6%). With a fast pace and plenty of shot attempts, expect Johnson to get enough chances to hit the over in this player prop bet.

Akron vs Arizona How to Watch

• Game: Akron (28-6) vs Arizona (22-12)
• Location: Climate Pledge Arena, Seattle, WA
• Date/Time: Friday, March 21, 7:35 p.m. ET
• Akron vs Arizona Live Stream: TBS.com

Check out the Akron vs Arizona stats here.

Odds and information are accurate at the time of writing. Please check with official sources for the latest updates before placing any bets.