Kentucky vs. Oakland Odds, Opening Spread, Predictions for 2024 NCAA Tournament

Kentucky vs. Oakland Odds

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

Kentucky opened as a 13.5-point favorite over Oakland in the first round off the NCAA Tournament, with the total set at over/under 160.5 points scored by both teams combined.

Find out how 3-seeded Kentucky and 11-seeded Oakland matchup statistically ahead of their opening round matchup.

Statistical Matchup

Kentucky vs. Oakland Analysis

I’m wondering what the buzz around Lexington is heading into the NCAA Tournament. The Wildcats have all but failed over the last few seasons. If it weren’t for his name alone, Coach Cal would be on the hot seat if he doesn’t reach the Elite Eight.

Just recently, Kentucky disappointed once again in a tournament setting. The Wildcats fell to Texas A&M as 8-point favorites in the SEC Tournament. This team is very young and surely vulnerable against a team that has nothing to lose.

Oakland makes the tournament by way of winning the Horizon League Tournament. Oakland is an experienced team with a very experienced coach. Greg Kampe is the longest-tenured coach in the entire nation and has seen a ton.

Oakland knows Kentucky will try and run on it, which the Cats do against every opponent they face. Oakland can score, but if it decides to get into a track meet with Kentucky, consider it cooked.

Look for Oakland to try and set the pace on the offensive end while limiting Kentucky in transition. Oakland has an elite scorer in Rocket Watts. If he can score at the end of the shot clock on a regular basis, these young Wildcats will be in trouble.

–Matt Gannon

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.