Pepperdine Waves vs Gonzaga Bulldogs Betting Trends

The highly anticipated January 21, 2026, NCAAB game between the Pepperdine Waves and Gonzaga Bulldogs at McCarthey Athletic Center in Spokane, WA, offers compelling betting trends and game insights for savvy bettors. Gonzaga, a dominant team with a 19-1 straight-up record, boasts a potent offense averaging 90.2 points per game with a 52.2% field goal percentage and an impressive 36.8% from beyond the arc. Their defense is equally formidable, allowing just 72.8 points per game. The Waves, meanwhile, average 69.6 points with a lower 42.3% shooting accuracy and a 29.3% 3-point rate, struggling defensively by conceding 109.8 points per game.

Gonzaga’s starting five, led by sharpshooters and strong defenders, maintain consistent performance, while Pepperdine faces challenges with injuries but likely will field a near-full lineup. The odds favor Gonzaga heavily with a -29.5 point spread at BetOnline, reflecting their past 96-56 win over Pepperdine in their December 28, 2025 matchup. The total points line is set at 148, suggesting a moderately paced game.

Understanding these betting trends, including Gonzaga's home dominance and Pepperdine's struggles, can guide bettors toward informed wagers. The Bulldogs' efficient offense and stout defense contrast with the Waves’ lower scoring and defensive vulnerabilities, making Gonzaga a strong pick against the spread. For a deeper dive into team performances and records, check out our NCAAB standings page and review their last matchup on December 28, 2025 for context.