The Texas Tech Red Raiders and the UCF Knights tip off Big 12 Conference men’s basketball action on Monday, Dec. 31, in Lubbock, Texas.
Tip-off is set for 1 p.m. central on ESPN+. The Red Raiders (9-2) and the Knights (9-2) are both unranked.
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Texas Tech has had a solid start to their season despite losing several players for multiple games. Star forward JT Toppin is expected to return after missing the previous four games due to a lower-body injury. UCF has been somewhat of a surprise this season, with the team quickly meshing a cast of new faces and veteran returners into a legitimate threat in conference play.
Here is a preview of Tuesday’s game.
How to Watch Texas Tech vs. UCF
Date: Tuesday, December 31, 2024
Time: 1 p.m. CT
TV Channel: ESPN+
All Big 12 fans can sign up here through our link for $11.99 per month or save over 15% with an ESPN+ Annual Plan at $119.99 per year and cancel at any time.
Site: United Supermarkets Arena, Lubbock, TX.
Texas Tech vs. UCF Betting Odds, Lines
Opening Line: Texas Tech -13
Current Line: Texas Tech -13.5
Over/Under: 145
Texas Tech vs. UCF Predictions
One of the team’s top athletes in 2024-25 staked his claim early on this season as a serious threat to win the Big 12 Player of the Year Award. That player is sophomore forward JT Toppin, who found his way to Lubbock in the transfer portal after being named the Mountain West Freshman of the Year at New Mexico last season.
He is expected to make his return to action on Tuesday after missing the previous four games against Lamar, Oral Roberts, No. 22 Texas A&M, and DePaul.
The Red Raiders have lost just two games this season with a 72-67 loss to in-state rival Texas A&M and a shocking upset loss to St. Joseph’s, 78-77, on November 21st.
UCF is led by a trio of impressive athletes in the front court, with three different players scoring in double figures. The group includes Jordan Ivy-Curry (16.3 PPG), Keyshawn Hall (15.2 PPG), and Darius Johnson (14.7).
The Knights have amassed a 9-2 record of their own despite losing one of their projected stars, Jaylin Sellers, to an early season injury. Sellers missed the team’s first 10 games and is a massive addition to Johnny Dawkins‘ group as he returns to form. The Georgia native posted 15.9 points per game in 2023-24.
Texas Tech 76, UCF 70
ESPN Matchup Predictor: Texas Tech (87.1% Chance of Winning)
DRatings: Texas Tech 78, UCF 69
