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Iowa (19-7) vs Wisconsin (18-8)
- When: Feb 22 2026, 4:00 PM
- Where: Kohl Center, Madison, WI, USA
- Where to watch: Fox Sports 1
Iowa vs (24) Wisconsin Preview & Prediction
Spread: Wisconsin -3.0
Moneyline: Wisconsin (-159)
Total: 146.5
Wisconsin Badgers Betting Breakdown
Wisconsin returns to Madison looking to respond after an 86-69 setback at Ohio State. The Badgers are 18-8 overall and 10-5 in Big Ten play, and at home they have been a strong investment at 13-2. This offense averages 83.1 points per game, but it depends heavily on perimeter rhythm. When Wisconsin hits 10 or more threes, it is 15-2. Against Ohio State, they shot just 7 of 26 from deep and trailed by 12 at halftime.
Nick Boyd leads the charge at 20.3 points per game, while John Blackwell adds 18.8. Nolan Winter contributes 13.6 points and a team-best 8.9 rebounds with 12 double-doubles. At home, that balance typically shows up in scoring runs that separate games late.
Player Prop Lean: Nick Boyd Over 20.5 Points – After combining for 28 points with Blackwell last game, Boyd is positioned for a bounce-back scoring night in front of a friendly crowd.
Iowa Hawkeyes Betting Breakdown
Iowa enters at 19-7 and 9-6 in conference action after a 57-52 upset of Nebraska. The Hawkeyes held the Big Ten’s top offense in check and are allowing just 64.4 points per game, the best mark in the conference. They are 15-1 when holding opponents under 69 points, a key stat for total bettors.
Bennett Stirtz continues to carry the offense at 20.5 points per game and just dropped 25 against Nebraska, marking his eighth 20-point effort in nine outings. Tavion Banks adds 10.7 points and 4.8 rebounds, helping Iowa win the glass by 13 in its last contest.
Player Prop Lean: Bennett Stirtz Over 19.5 Points – With his recent scoring surge and high usage, Stirtz remains the focal point of Iowa’s half-court attack.
Expert Final Score Prediction
The total of 146.5 suggests a competitive tempo, but Iowa’s defensive efficiency could drag this into a half-court battle. Wisconsin’s 13-2 home record and three-point upside provide the edge. If the Badgers regain their shooting touch, they will cover the small number.
Final Score: Wisconsin 78, Iowa 71
Lean: Wisconsin -3.5
Total: Over 146.5
- NCAAB Odds source: MyBookie Sportsbook
