Houston vs. Longwood Odds, Opening Spread, Predictions for 2024 NCAA Tournament

Houston vs. Longwood Odds

The 2024 NCAA Tournament field has been announced and Houston will take on Longwood in Round 1 of the South region. Here's everything you need to know about Houston vs. Longwood odds, spread and more.

Houston opened as a 22-point favorite over Longwood in the first round off the NCAA Tournament, with the total set at over/under 129.5. points scored by both teams combined.

Find out how 1-seeded Houston and 16-seeded Longwood matchup statistically ahead of their opening round matchup.

Statistical Matchup

Houston vs. Longwood Analysis

Longwood is a team that predictive metrics like a touch better than the committee. Ranking 157th in KenPom places it tops among the 16 seeds, ahead of 15-seed Long Beach State and a few spots behind 14-seed Colgate.

With that being said, it’s not like this is a bad draw for Houston. Longwood went 6-10 in the Big South this season and, worst of all, has flaws that play right into Houston’s hands.

The Lancers rank 257th in the nation in turnover rate, plus ranked last in that stat in Big South play by turning the ball over on more than 18% of their possessions. That’s blood in the water for a Houston team that ranked in the top three in the nation in forcing turnovers, steals and blocked shots.

Houston played 11 games against teams outside KenPom’s top 100 this season. Those 11 opponents averaged 46.6 points against Houston.

A pissed-off Cougars team that just got blown out in the Big 12 title game will smother Longwood. Look for Houston to not just cover, but for a devilishly low team total for the Lancers.

–Shane McNichol

For more coverage of the 2024 NCAA Tournament and Selection Sunday, make sure to check out our experts' live reactions to the bracket reveal and the Selection Sunday live show, where you can get their instant analysis on every matchup as well as some early insights to help you make your bets.