UCLA (7) vs. Tennessee (2) Bracket Prediction: March Madness Odds

Sports Interaction Staff | Updated Mar 22, 2025

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In the second round of the 2025 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament, the No. 7 seed UCLA Bruins are set to face the No. 2 seed Tennessee Volunteers.

UCLA
22-9
AT
March 22, 2025, 9:40 PM ET
Rupp Arena
Tennessee
25-6
Matchup Odds
Matchup Odds

Tonight’s game will take Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky. Both teams are known for their defense, setting the stage for a tightly contested battle with a spot in the Sweet 16 on the line.

UCLA vs. Tennessee NCAA Tournament Point Spread and Betting

As of March 22, 2025, Tennessee is favored by 5.5 points over UCLA, with the total set at 130.5 points. The Volunteers have an 84.6% win rate when listed as the moneyline favorite, while the Bruins have won 37.5% of games as underdogs this season.

This matchup is anticipated to be a defensive showdown, with both teams excelling in limiting their opponents’ scoring opportunities. Tennessee’s offense relies heavily on perimeter shooting, attempting a significant number of three-pointers, which aligns with UCLA’s defensive strategy of forcing teams to settle for outside shots. Conversely, UCLA’s offense thrives on mid-range jumpers and assisted baskets, but they may struggle against Tennessee’s defense, which effectively disrupts passing lanes and forces isolation plays.

UCLA Bruins

The UCLA Bruins hold a 23-10 record, underpinned by a strong defensive foundation that permits only 65.2 points per game, placing them 22nd nationally. Offensively, they average 74.7 points per game, with forward Tyler Bilodeau leading the charge at 13.5 points and 4.6 rebounds per game. Guard Eric Dailey Jr. adds 11.7 points and 4.1 rebounds per game, providing versatility on the perimeter. The Bruins emphasize ball movement, averaging 16.5 assists per game, ranking 25th nationally.

Tennessee Volunteers

The Tennessee Volunteers enter this matchup with a 28-7 record, showcasing a balanced attack on both ends of the floor. Offensively, they average 74.8 points per game, with key contributions from guard Chaz Lanier, who leads the team with 18 points per game and averages 3.3 three-pointers made per game. Point guard Zakai Zeigler is instrumental in facilitating the offense, averaging 13.7 points and 7.5 assists per game. Defensively, Tennessee is among the nation’s elite, allowing just 63 points per game, ranking 10th nationally. 

March Madness Prediction: Who Will Win UCLA vs. Tennessee?

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