The Hawaii Rainbow Warriors and Utah Utes face off on Thursday in a college basketball showdown at Vivant Smart Home Arena. Let’s look at the betting matchup and give a free Utah vs Hawaii prediction. 

Utah Coming Off Big Victory

Utah is coming off a big victory against Saint Mary’s in the last game. The Utes are now ahead of Washington, Oregon State, Stanford, and California in the Pac-12 standings. Utah scored 40 points in the second half against the Gaels, and that was enough for the seven-point victory. Rollie Worster had a strong game putting up 17 points, eight rebounds, and one assist. Utah overall is averaging 81 points while their defense is giving up 71.2 points per game. At times the defense has been a major issue and that is going to need to change here. Branden Carlson is averaging 17.3 points while shooting 45.7 percent from the field. 

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Perfect Start for Hawaii

People are not giving enough attention to Hawaii for what they have been able to start the season. They have a perfect 5-0 start and have beaten teams like Northern Arizona, Niagara, and San Diego. In the last game against San Diego, the offense scored 77 points and that was enough for the 11-point victory. Hawaii on the season is averaging 79.4 points while their defense is giving up 64.6 points per game. In his game, the Hawaii defense is going to need to be very good. 

Utah vs Hawaii Betting Prediction

Hawaii has sure looked impressive and I expect they are going to continue the success here. Hawaii is averaging 79.4 points per game and Utah defense hasn’t been exactly elite. In this game, Hawaii is going to run up the score, and although it might not be enough to win the game, it’s going to be enough to keep this game close. It wouldn’t be shocking if Hawaii wins this game outright. Back Hawaii against the spread.