College Basketball Player Props – Best NCAAB Prop Bets Today, January 23

Total Points: Bruce Thornton (OSU) Over 17.5 (-125)

Ohio State heads into Ann Arbor as a heavy underdog, and that game script points toward Bruce Thornton taking on a major offensive role against Michigan. With the Buckeyes catching 14.5 points, they will need consistent scoring from their lead guard to stay competitive, and Thornton is clearly the piece they trust to deliver.

Thornton enters Friday night averaging 20.7 points per game while shooting an outstanding 56.5% from the field. His efficiency has held steady even as his usage has increased, which is a key factor in a tough road matchup like this one. Recent form only strengthens the case.

Ohio State guard Bruce Thornton is legitimately having one of the most EFFICIENT offensive seasons in recent memory:

20.0 PPG
5.3 RPG
3.9 APG
1.2 SPG
56.4% FG
43.8% 3PT
86.2% FT

Does he deserve more looks from NBA scouts?? 🤔🤔 pic.twitter.com/QR5GLvpT9D

— MBB Performances (@mbbperformances) January 10, 2026

He has scored at least 21 points in three straight games and is coming off a 23 point performance against Minnesota on nine of 16 shooting. Even if Ohio State struggles as a group, Thornton should see the volume needed to clear his number.

Over 17.5 points stands out as one of the best college basketball prop bets today.

Total Points: Devin Royal (OSU) Under 15.5 (-120)

Ohio State faces a difficult road environment in Ann Arbor, and that challenge sets up a tricky spot for Devin Royal in the front court. Against a physical Michigan defense, scoring opportunities in the paint are expected to be limited, which puts pressure on Royal to be highly efficient to clear his number.

Royal enters Friday night averaging 14.5 points per game on 50.3% shooting, which already sits below the posted line. While he has scored 16 or more points in back to back starts, those performances have not been the norm. In four of his last six starts, Royal has been held to 14 points or fewer, showing some volatility when matchups tighten up.

Michigan does a strong job protecting the interior and forcing opponents into tougher looks, especially at home. That defensive profile makes it difficult for front court scorers to get comfortable.

With the line set at 15.5 points, the under stands out as the sharper college basketball player prop in this spot.