The UConn Huskies have taken over as the favorites to win the NCAA Tournament ahead of this weekend’s Final Four but may not have one of their top players at full strength. On Friday, reports revealed that guard Jordan Hawkins missed practice with a non-COVID illness. The Miami-UConn betting odds shifted immediately following the news.
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Jordan Hawkins Illness Shifts Miami-UConn Betting Odds
Per Caesars Sportsbook, UConn is now a 5-point favorite over Miami in the Final Four game. They were listed at -5.5 prior to the Hawkins news.
Of course, it will be a huge blow to the Huskies if Hawkins is unable to suit up for the Final Four. Hawkins is the second-highest scorer on UConn (16.1 points per game) and has been a pivotal part of the team’s run in the NCAA Tournament. He has scored 44 points combined in the last two games, including a team-high 20 in the win over Gonzaga in the Elite Eight. His efforts have him moving up NBA Draft boards, and he is currently in the lottery pick discussion.
Although he was a streaky 3-point shooter during the regular season, Hawkins has been the best perimeter shooter in the NCAA Tournament. His 16 3-pointers are the most by any player throughout the tourney, and his defensive prowess has been a difference maker as well.
Luckily for the UConn faithful, Hawkins’ teammates are expecting him to play despite the illness.
“I haven’t seen him yet (today). It’s a stomach thing with him. I think he’s going to be fine,” freshman Alex Karaban said, per Clutch Points.
Andre Jackson also expressed confidence Hawkins will be on the floor vs. Miami.
“I have complete confidence that Jordan Hawkins will be playing tomorrow night,” he said, per reporter John Fanta.
For now, it appears as though the Jordan Hawkins illness will not be enough to keep him out of the Final Four. But the latest Miami-UConn betting odds show the Hurricanes as benefiting slightly from the news.
Bettors should be sure to use OddsShopper tools to get the best value for the Final Four!
