The big dance is only days away and sports fans across the globe are discussing College Basketball Betting. The NCAA tournament is almost here, but basketball fans are also watching the opening round of the NIT. Traditionally thought of as a consolation tournament, the NIT often offers games that equal if not eclipse the excitement level of the big dance. March Madness is here whether you’re watching the NCAA Tournament or the NIT. Here is a preview for the NIT game between the Tulsa Golden Hurricane and the Kent State Golden Flashes.

Tulsa Golden Hurricane vs. Kent State Golden Flashes

Wednesday March 17, 12:00PM (ET)

Sportsbook Point Spread: NO LINE YET

In a game featuring the number 4 versus number 5 seeds, you can be sure it will be a heated matchup. Kent State finished first overall in MAC standings this season sitting 13-3 in conference play and 24-9 overall. Many believed Kent State was an NCAA tournament team, not a mid level seed in the NIT. Tulsa, who played in the tougher C-USA finished the season 10-6 in conference play and 23-11 overall. Both teams enter this NIT game with something to prove and you can expect an intense game from tip off to finish.

What the Tulsa Golden Hurricane need to do to win

Sportsbook Reviews Odds: NO LINE YET

Force Kent State to double team: Tulsa features three legitimate scoring threats in Ben Uzoh, Jerome Jordan, and Justin Hurtt. All three are averaging a minimum of 14 points per game and can dominate on any given night. If one of these players steps up, Kent State might be forced to double team, which would open up the court for the other two Golden Hurricanes scorers. Behind these three, Tulsa features a deep line-up of contributors, although no one likely has the ability to break a game open.

The key to the Tulsa Golden Hurricane offense is definitely Jerome Jordan. Tulsa can expect Kent State defenders to zero in on Jordan not only because of his 15 points per game, but because Jordan leads all players entering this game with 9 rebounds per game. Tulsa needs to box out the opposition and let Jordan get to the basket.

What the Kent State Golden Flashes need to do to win

March Madness Bracket: NO LINE YET

Rely on solid team play: With a name like the “Golden Flashes,” you would expect more flash from Kent State. Not the case. Kent State has consistently won games all season using a balanced team attack and solid defence. The NIT tournament is no time to change this strategy. Kent State has allowed an average of less than 65 points per game all season. Not only that, but Kent State has performed well on the road this season, which should bode well for their neutral location against Tulsa.

Up front, no player on Kent State averaged more than 14 points per game this season. Bench scoring has been a strength for this team. If Kent State can continue to get balanced scoring from their top 6 players and keep the score low, this will be their game to lose.