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Kansas State (9-5) vs Arizona (14-0)
- When: Jan 7 2026, 9:00 PM
- Where: McKale Center, Tucson, AZ, USA
- Where to watch: Fox Sports 1
Kansas State vs (1) Arizona Preview & Prediction
Spread: Arizona -18.5
Moneyline: Arizona (-3333)
Total: 170.0
Kansas State Wildcats Betting Breakdown
Kansas State heads to Tucson looking to reset quickly and avoid slipping into another rough stretch. The Wildcats just saw a four game win run end against a strong BYU squad, but that result may not be as discouraging as it looks on paper. Even while playing far below their offensive standard, Kansas State managed to hang around for most of the night.
The biggest issue was perimeter shooting. Kansas State could not buy a basket from deep, finishing with one of its worst outside performances of the season. That type of shooting night is unlikely to repeat, especially for a team that normally spaces the floor better and moves the ball with confidence. Despite the cold shooting, the Wildcats showed fight by trimming a double digit halftime deficit down to manageable territory multiple times.
From a betting perspective, Kansas State profiles as a team that plays better than the scoreboard suggests when facing elite opponents. They defend with purpose, rebound competitively, and do not fold easily on the road. When shots normalize even slightly, their offense becomes far more respectable, which matters greatly when catching a large number.
This spot also favors Kansas State mentally. They enter with nothing to lose, full focus, and an extended road trip that allows them to bond and settle into game mode. That mindset often leads to cleaner execution and fewer panic possessions.
Arizona Wildcats Betting Breakdown
Arizona continues to roll and looks every bit like the top ranked team in the country. The Wildcats remain undefeated and just opened conference play with a convincing road win, even if the final margin was not as outrageous as recent results.
Arizona thrives on balance. They rotate freely, score from multiple spots, and overwhelm teams with waves of contributors rather than relying on one star. That depth allows them to maintain pressure for forty minutes and slowly stretch leads without forcing the issue.
However, this is a classic big favorite situation. Arizona does not need to dominate from start to finish to win comfortably. They are content controlling tempo, managing minutes, and avoiding unnecessary risks. That approach can leave room for opponents to stay within a large spread, especially if Arizona cools off late or empties the bench.
Expert Final Score Prediction
Arizona is favored by 18.5 with the total set at 170.0. While Arizona should win the game, the number feels inflated given Kansas State’s defensive effort and likelihood of shooting regression.
Kansas State should compete hard, avoid extended scoring droughts, and stay close enough to reward spread backers even if Arizona controls the outcome.
Final Score: Arizona 93, Kansas State 79
Lean: Kansas State +18.5
Total: Over 170.0
- NCAAB Odds source: MyBookie Sportsbook
