North Carolina vs Pittsburgh Picks and Prediction – 1/29/2025

The Pittsburgh Panthers (13-6, 4-4 ACC) are set to host the North Carolina Tar Heels (13-8, 6-3 ACC) on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at the Petersen Events Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Tip-off is scheduled for 9:00 PM EST, with live coverage available on ESPN. Get in on the action with our free NCAAB picks.

Pittsburgh returns home after a challenging stretch, having lost four of their last five games. Despite recent struggles, the Panthers have showcased offensive prowess throughout the season, averaging 80.2 points per game, which ranks fourth in the ACC. They lead the conference in free throw percentage at 78.6% and are third in field goal percentage, shooting 47.2% from the field. The backcourt duo of Ishmael Leggett and Jaland Lowe has been instrumental, combining for 34.2 points, 9.8 rebounds, 8.5 assists, and 3.5 steals per game. Notably, Lowe has been on a scoring surge, averaging 20.8 points over the past four contests. 

North Carolina enters this matchup aiming to build momentum after a narrow overtime victory against Boston College. The Tar Heels have been led by RJ Davis, who averages 17.7 points per game. As they embark on this crucial three-game stretch, starting with Pittsburgh, followed by a rivalry game against Duke, and concluding with another meeting against the Panthers, the Tar Heels are keenly aware of the importance of each game for their NCAA Tournament aspirations. 

This will be a tight matchup no doubt. UNC is a tough out any night, but Pitt at home is a tempting play. We think Pitt has the extra spark this season, and combined with the home court advantage, we will pull the trigger on the Panthers. Prediction: Pitt wins 79-75.