First Four prediction, odds, best bets

In 1504 Florence, Michelangelo’s David was unveiled to universal praise.

Now imagine that a quarter-century later, the sculptor is told to improve upon perfection.

He is ordered to add a tail to the back of his masterpiece.

That’s how I feel about the First Four, starting with Arizona vs. Nevada.

Arizona State (-2.5) over Nevada

Advanced metrics would happily snatch the Wolf Pack and the free points.

For most of the season, it would have been the smart play.

But it has been nearly three weeks since Nevada’s last win and it has lost three straight games in which it made less than 28 percent of its 3-pointers.

Arizona State’s elite defense will make it challenging for the Wolf Pack to rediscover their rhythm or confidence.

Betting on College Basketball?

Sun Devils starters Desmond Cambridge Jr. and Warren Washington should be ready, having spent the previous two seasons at Nevada.