Tulsa Golden Hurricane vs UAB Blazers Picks and Predictions for Sunday January 18 2026
The Tulsa Golden Hurricane travel to Birmingham on Sunday afternoon to face the UAB Blazers at Bartow Arena. Tip-off is scheduled for 3:00 PM EST, with television coverage on ESPN+. At the time of publication, the money line, spread, and total are all off the board, but this AAC matchup still presents an intriguing contrast in styles and current form. Before wagering, be sure to check out our free college basketball picks for the latest odds and expert insights.
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Tulsa Bringing Firepower on the Road
Tulsa enters this matchup with a strong 14-3 overall record and has shown the ability to compete away from home this season. Over the last five games, the Golden Hurricane have picked up wins over Charlotte, Rice, and Denver, while losses came against South Florida and North Texas. That mix of results highlights a team that can score with anyone but has occasionally struggled against disciplined defensive opponents on the road.
From a numbers standpoint, Tulsa has been impressive offensively, averaging 87.6 points per game while allowing 71.8 points per contest. The Golden Hurricane shoot an efficient 49% from the field and grab 38.6 rebounds per game, giving them consistent second-chance opportunities. They average 15.9 assists per game, while defensively contributing 6.7 steals and 2.5 blocks per contest.
Tulsa’s calling card is its offensive balance. The Golden Hurricane are comfortable playing at a faster tempo and can score in a variety of ways, whether in transition or the half court. When they establish rhythm early, they are capable of putting real pressure on opposing defenses throughout the game.
UAB Defending Home Court with Physical Play
UAB comes into Sunday with a 12-6 overall record and has been competitive in conference play, especially at home. In their last five games, the Blazers earned wins over Tulane, East Carolina, and South Florida, while losses came against Florida Atlantic and Michigan State. Several of those games went to overtime, underscoring UAB’s toughness and ability to battle late.
Statistically, UAB averages 83.4 points per game while allowing 73.7 points per contest. The Blazers shoot 45% from the field and are a strong rebounding team, pulling down 42.2 rebounds per game. They average 15 assists per game and bring defensive energy with 8.5 steals and 3.1 blocks per contest.
UAB’s strength lies in its physicality and defensive pressure. The Blazers thrive when games become rugged and possession-by-possession battles. At Bartow Arena, that style often translates into forcing turnovers and wearing opponents down over the course of 40 minutes. 
Tulsa Golden Hurricane vs UAB Blazers Pick
| # | Handicapper | Profit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 |  Ben Burns | +1,203.00 |
| 2 |  Joseph D'Amico | +791.00 |
| 3 |  Bryan Power | +507.00 |
| 4 |  MIT Simulator | +449.00 |
| 5 |  Joe Duffy | +374.00 |
Tulsa Golden Hurricane vs UAB Blazers Pick
- Pick: UAB Blazers
With the spread not yet posted, I lean toward UAB in this matchup if the number is short. The Blazers’ rebounding edge and defensive intensity at home are key factors against a Tulsa team that prefers to run. UAB’s ability to control the glass and force turnovers gives them an advantage in a game that could tighten late.
Tulsa Golden Hurricane vs UAB Blazers Total Pick
- Pick: Under
I also lean toward the under once a total is available. While Tulsa can score in bunches, UAB’s defensive approach and preference for physical, half-court play should limit possessions. If the Blazers dictate tempo, this game profiles as one that finishes below the posted number.
Final Score Prediction: UAB Blazers 82, Tulsa Golden Hurricane 77
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