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Long Island University Faces Uphill Battle Against Powerhouse Arizona in March Madness
Sharks' Lasu and Fuller Aim to Outperform Lopsided Spread
Mar. 19, 2026 at 6:32pm
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The No. 16 seed Long Island University Sharks will take on the dominant No. 1 seed Arizona Wildcats in the first round of the NCAA Tournament on Friday. While Arizona is heavily favored by 30.5 points, our college basketball betting picks suggest LIU's Shadrak Lasu and Jamal Fuller could put up solid individual stats in what's expected to be a blowout victory for the Wildcats.
Why it matters
This matchup highlights the stark contrast between a Cinderella team making its first tournament appearance and a perennial powerhouse program. While LIU faces an uphill battle, the game provides an opportunity for the Sharks' top players to showcase their skills on the big stage against elite competition.
The details
The Wildcats have been favored by more than 30 points in seven games this season and won all of them by more than 25. However, Arizona's fast tempo and potential to rest starters could lead to productive outings for LIU's Shadrak Lasu and Jamal Fuller. Lasu has grabbed at least six boards in 11 of his last 15 games, averaging 7.1 rebounds per game over that span. Fuller leads the Sharks with 16.4 points per game on 52.5% shooting, having scored at least 17 points in six of his previous eight contests.
- The first-round matchup between Long Island University and Arizona will take place on Friday, March 20, 2026.
The players
Shadrak Lasu
A 6-foot-9 forward for the Long Island University Sharks, Lasu is the team's biggest player and will be crucial in battling Arizona's imposing frontcourt.
Jamal Fuller
The leading scorer for the Long Island University Sharks, averaging 16.4 points per game on 52.5% shooting.
Malachi Davis
The point guard for the Long Island University Sharks, a former Arizona State recruit who averages 3.4 assists per game.
Arizona Wildcats
The No. 1 seed in the West Region, the Arizona Wildcats are one of the best teams in the country and have been favored by more than 30 points in seven games this season, winning all of them by more than 25.
What’s next
The winner of this first-round matchup will advance to face the winner of the game between the No. 8 seed and the No. 9 seed in the West Region.
The takeaway
While Long Island University faces a daunting task against the powerhouse Arizona Wildcats, the game provides an opportunity for the Sharks' top players to showcase their skills and potentially put up impressive individual stats, even in a lopsided defeat.
