Kentucky Derby Expert Picks, Odds and News

Liam McNeeley delivered a stunning performance, scoring 38 points and grabbing 10 rebounds to lead UConn to a 70-66 victory over Creighton (No. 24) on Tuesday night. The Huskies mounted an incredible comeback after trailing by 14 points late in the first half, snapping the Bluejays' nine-game win streak and handing them their first loss since January 3.

On Saturday, Clemson delivered a big blow by defeating Duke (No. 2) 77-71, ending their impressive 16-game winning streak. With a standout performance from Viktor Lakhin, who scored 22 points, and the collective effort of Chase Hunter (14 points) and Ian Schieffelin (12 points and 10 rebounds), the Tigers showed they have what it takes to take down the top teams.

In an exciting matchup, Florida (No. 6) surprised the top-ranked team, Auburn (No. 1), with a 90-81 victory on Saturday. Led by a standout performance from Walter Clayton Jr., who scored 19 points, and Alex Condon, who added 17, the Gators made an impressive comeback after being down by 10 points early in the game. This marks their second win against a No. 1 ranked team after their victory over Tennessee on January 7.

With over $1.1 million in career earnings, Gigante aims to continue his dominance in the $175,000 Fair Grounds Stakes (G3) on Saturday at Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots. The 1 1/8-mile turf event, featuring a competitive field of ten older males, is one of several high-profile races on the stakes-filled card.The event is part of Louisiana Derby Preview Day, which features the $500,000 Risen Star Stakes (G2) and the $300,000 Rachel Alexandra Stakes (G2), both key Kentucky Derby Prep Races. 

Catching Freedom, winner of the Grade 2 Louisiana Derby last year, returns to Fair Grounds on Saturday as the 3-1 morning-line favorite for the Mineshaft Stakes (G3). The 1 1/16-mile dirt route features a competitive field of eight older males looking to establish themselves in the division.