The NCAA Men’s Division I Basketball Tournament continues with a second-round game between the Saint Louis Billikens and the Michigan Wolverines. This game will take place at the Crisler Center in Ann Arbor, MI. Tip-off is scheduled for Saturday, March 21, 2026, at 12:00 PM ET, and it will be broadcast on CBS.
Saint Louis enters this game as the 9 seed with a strong regular season record of 28-5. They finished their conference play in the Atlantic 10 with a 16-4 record. Last postseason, they faced a tough loss to Arkansas State with a score of 78-103.
Michigan, the 1 seed, holds an impressive overall record of 31-3 for the regular season. They dominated the Big Ten with a 21-2 conference record. In the 2025 postseason, Michigan advanced to the Sweet 16, where they were defeated by Auburn, 65-78.
Michigan Preview
The Michigan Wolverines are ranked #3 in the AP poll. They play in the Big Ten Conference. In the 2026 regular season, they had a strong record of 31-3 overall and 21-2 in conference games.
In the 2025 postseason, Michigan had some success. They won against California-San Diego and Texas A&M in the South Region. However, they lost to Auburn in the Sweet 16.
Offensively, the Wolverines scored 86.8 points per game in the 2026 regular season. Their field goal percentage was 50.5, ranking them 8th. They also averaged 18.4 assists per game, placing them 10th.
Defensively, Michigan had some challenges. They averaged 5.7 steals per game and 5.9 blocks per game. They committed 15.6 fouls per game during the regular season.
Saint Louis Preview
The Saint Louis Billikens play in the Atlantic 10 Conference. In the 2026 regular season, they had a strong record of 28-5. Their conference record was 16-4, showing they performed well against conference rivals.
Offensively, the team scored 87.2 points per game, ranking 12th. They had a high field goal percentage of 50.9, which was 6th best. The Billikens also made 10.9 three-pointers per game, placing them 23rd in that category.
Defensively, the Billikens had 7.2 steals and 3.5 blocks per game. They committed 18.3 fouls per game. These stats show areas where the team might focus on improving.
In the 2025 postseason, the Billikens lost to Arkansas State with a score of 103-78. They reached the first round of the tournament. This postseason experience might help them in future games.
Statistical Breakdown for Michigan vs Saint Louis
The game between the Michigan Wolverines and the Saint Louis Billikens will likely be influenced by their offensive strengths. Both teams have high scoring averages, with Saint Louis at 87.2 points per game and Michigan at 86.8. The Wolverines hold a slight edge in field goal percentage, while the Billikens excel in three-point shooting. Defensively, Michigan’s ability to block shots could be a factor, while Saint Louis might focus on improving their foul count.
- Michigan Points Per Game: 86.8 (14th)
- Saint Louis Points Per Game: 87.2 (12th)
- Michigan Field Goal Percentage: 50.5 (8th)
- Saint Louis Field Goal Percentage: 50.9 (6th)
- Michigan 3PT Made Per Game: 9.1 (109th)
- Saint Louis 3PT Made Per Game: 10.9 (23rd)
- Michigan Blocks Per Game: 5.9
- Saint Louis Blocks Per Game: 3.5
- Michigan Fouls Per Game: 15.6
- Saint Louis Fouls Per Game: 18.3
Betting Insights
The upcoming game between the Saint Louis Billikens and the Michigan Wolverines offers interesting betting angles. Both teams have shown different strengths in their recent performances. The Billikens have struggled against the spread, while the Wolverines have been strong straight up. Here are the top betting trends to consider:
- Michigan is 3-0 ATS in their last 3 games.
- Saint Louis is 9-22 on the Over/Under for all games.
- Michigan is 6-2 ATS as an underdog.
- Saint Louis is 3-8 ATS as an underdog.
- Michigan is 25-9 SU in all games.
Free Betting Prediction for Michigan vs Saint Louis
The Michigan Wolverines are favored to win this game. They have a strong record and have performed well against the spread recently. Michigan’s offense is efficient, and their defense can block shots effectively. These factors make them a tough opponent for Saint Louis.
Saint Louis has a solid offense, but they have struggled against the spread. Their defense needs improvement, especially in reducing fouls. The Billikens will need to play their best game to compete with Michigan. Their three-point shooting could help keep the game close.
Considering the strengths and weaknesses of both teams, Michigan is likely to win. Their ability to score and defend gives them an edge. Saint Louis may struggle to keep up, especially with their defensive challenges.
- Our Free Prediction: Michigan -13.5
