Oddsmakers were shown to have undervalued Gonzaga in the first round and they've done the same with WCC champ Saint Mary's. Though Grand Canyon is a better team than the McNeese club the Zags were gifted, the Gael have the top scoring defense and rebounding margin in the country. Grand Canyon is second nationally in FTs made but that should be a footnote against a team that knows how to defend without fouling.

The Lopes are for real at 29-4 and own a win over San Diego State. But I'm going against the Cinderella story and backing the Gaels, who have won 23 of 25. St. Mary's ranks 14th nationally in defensive efficiency and allows 58.7 points per game. The Gaels have better size and scoring balance and should pull away for the cover late.

The kings of Phoenix hoops is Grand Canyon, not Arizona State. The Antelopes have gone to the tournament every year under coach Bryce Drew. They're looking for their first win. Saint Mary's went 9-1 in its last 10 games, culminating with beating Gonzaga in the West Coast Conference Tournament championship game. The Gaels went 26-7 overall and 18-13 against-the-spread. Grand Canyon went 17-14 ATS and 29-4 overall, including 16-0 at home. Many of those Grand Canyon students will be traveling for this game. Both teams play smothering defense. I took the points with Grand Canyon.

While the free throw shooting will likely be a concern later in the tournament, Saint Mary's has a massive rebounding and defensive edge in this matchup. The contrast in styles isn't an issue as most matchups are a contrast of styles for this team. I make the Gaels -7.5 in this matchup.