Welcome back, basketball fans. After a loaded weekend slate, Monday brings another strong lineup of matchups worth watching and wagering on. We went 3-2 on Sunday, bringing the season record to 258-245-1.
Best Bets for Monday, February 23, 2026
Let’s dive into today’s card. Be sure to check them all out at Betstamp.
Louisville Cardinals at North Carolina Tar Heels
North Carolina returns home to the Dean Dome, where it has been especially tough to beat. Louisville has struggled on the road, and while Caleb Wilson remains out, the Tar Heels are adjusting and finding ways to win. Home-court advantage should be the difference here.
Betting Pick: North Carolina +3.5
Prediction: North Carolina 81, Louisville 77
Mississippi Valley State Delta Devils at Grambling State Tigers
Mississippi Valley State finally snapped its losing streak last game, but expecting back-to-back wins is a stretch. Grambling State should control tempo and take command early. This matchup has blowout potential.
Betting Pick: Grambling State -16.5
Prediction: Grambling State 89, Mississippi Valley State 66
Nicholls State Colonels at Lamar Cardinals
One of the earlier games on the slate features a competitive matchup on paper. Still, Lamar’s home edge and overall balance should allow it to pull away late and cover the number.
Betting Pick: Lamar -4
Prediction: Lamar 79, Nicholls State 72
Texas Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros at McNeese State Cowboys
This shapes up as a mismatch. McNeese State’s pace and offensive efficiency should overwhelm a Vaqueros squad that lacks the firepower to keep up for 40 minutes.
Betting Pick: McNeese State -10.5
Prediction: McNeese State 82, Texas Rio Grande Valley 68
Houston Cougars at Kansas Jayhawks
Kansas is coming off a tough home loss, which makes this spot even more dangerous for Houston. The Jayhawks rarely drop games at Phog Allen Fieldhouse, especially in marquee Big Monday matchups. Expect a tight contest, but home magic should prevail.
Betting Pick: Kansas +1.5
Prediction: Kansas 70, Houston 69
Enjoy the games and best of luck tonight.
Be sure to track all picks throughout the season on BetStamp.