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Arizona (24-2) vs Houston (23-3)
- When: Feb 21 2026, 3:00 PM
- Where: Fertitta Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Where to watch: ABC
(4) Arizona vs (2) Houston Preview & Prediction
Spread: Houston -5.0
Moneyline: Houston (-220)
Total: 141.0
Houston Cougars Betting Breakdown
Houston enters this Big 12 heavyweight clash laying five at home, and the line reflects its identity. The Cougars are 23-3 overall and 11-2 in conference play, allowing just 61.6 points per game, the second best scoring defense in the nation. That defensive edge is the foundation for bettors considering the favorite.
Even in a tight 70-67 loss to Iowa State that snapped a six game winning streak, freshman guard Kingston Flemings poured in 22 points. On the season, Flemings averages 16.6 points, 5.3 assists and 1.7 steals per game, giving Houston a dynamic creator to pair with Emanuel Sharp at 16.5 points per game and Milos Uzan at 11.2. Inside, Chris Cenac Jr. and Joseph Tugler combine for 13 rebounds per game, controlling the glass in a way that shortens games and supports under tickets.
Arizona Wildcats Betting Breakdown
Arizona brings a completely different profile. The Wildcats are 24-2 and 11-2 in the Big 12, averaging 88.2 points per game, ranking 13th nationally in scoring offense. They just beat BYU 75-68 to halt a two game slide after opening the year 23-0.
Brayden Burries leads the team with 15.5 points per game, while Jaden Bradley adds 13.3 points and 4.7 assists. Ivan Kharchenkov chips in 10 points per game. Arizona also leans on its interior presence, as Motiejus Krivas and Tobe Awaka combine for 18.3 rebounds per game. However, injuries matter here. Koa Peat is sidelined with a lower leg issue, and Dwayne Aristode has missed two games due to illness.
Betting Outlook & Prediction
This matchup screams contrast. Arizona wants pace and transition, while Houston prefers physical half court defense and controlled possessions. With Houston allowing just 61.6 per game and playing at home, the Cougars’ defensive discipline should dictate tempo. Arizona can score, but facing an elite defense on the road is a different challenge.
Final Score: Houston 72, Arizona 65
Lean: Houston -5
Total: Under 141.0
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
