Saturday showdowns set the stage for March: best bets for a loaded February 28 slate

From a potential ACC title decider in Durham to heavyweight clashes in the SEC, Big 12 and WCC, Saturday’s college basketball slate feels like a dress rehearsal for March. With conference races tightening and NCAA Tournament positioning on the line, we break down the top spots and best bets for February 28.
Duke Blue Devils head coach Jon Scheyer
Duke Blue Devils head coach Jon Scheyer | Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

It’s the weekend. Happy Saturday and the final day of February.

On Friday, we went 2-3.
On the season, we are 272-256-1l

Be sure to follow all our picks at BetStamp.

Best Bets for Saturday, February 28, 2026

Here are our Saturday plays:

Virginia Cavaliers at Duke Blue Devils

This is a massive ACC showdown. Combined, these two teams are 51-5 on the season. With conference title implications on the line, expect a high-level, physical battle.

Virginia has quietly put together an outstanding season. They defend at an elite level and make just enough timely shots to stay within striking distance. Cameron Indoor is never easy, but the Cavaliers have the discipline and toughness to compete for 40 minutes.

Duke likely wins the game, but the number feels a bit too large in what should be a tight contest.

Betting Pick: Virginia Cavaliers +10.5 over Duke Blue Devils
Final Score Prediction: Duke 72, Virginia 68

Vanderbilt Commodores at Kentucky Wildcats

A huge SEC tilt in Lexington. Vanderbilt enters at 22-6, while Kentucky sits at 18-10 and desperately needs quality wins to strengthen its resume before the SEC Tournament.

The Wildcats understand the urgency. At Rupp Arena, their athleticism and pace should be the difference. Expect Kentucky to rise to the moment and grab a critical home victory.

Betting Pick: Kentucky Wildcats +1.5 over Vanderbilt Commodores
Final Score Prediction: Kentucky 77, Vanderbilt 75

Alabama Crimson Tide at Tennessee Volunteers

Alabama heads to Knoxville in another high-level SEC matchup. Nate Oats’ group is as athletic and explosive as any team in the country.

Tennessee has been inconsistent and has not consistently played to its ceiling. In a close game, Alabama’s offensive firepower and ability to stretch the floor should give them the edge.

Expect a tight finish, but the Crimson Tide get it done on the road.

Betting Pick: Alabama Crimson Tide +5 over Tennessee Volunteers
Final Score Prediction: Alabama 85, Tennessee 84

Kansas Jayhawks at Arizona Wildcats

Kansas took the first meeting at home, but Arizona looks like a different team right now.

The Wildcats are playing with confidence, pace, and balance. At home, they should be able to get out early and build separation as the game progresses. This feels like a statement opportunity for Arizona as it strengthens its NCAA Tournament seed positioning.

Betting Pick: Arizona Wildcats -9.5 over Kansas Jayhawks
Final Score Prediction: Arizona 88, Kansas 78

Gonzaga Bulldogs at Saint Mary’s Gaels

A rivalry that defines the West Coast Conference year after year. These have been the two standard-bearers out west for a long time.

Gonzaga won the first meeting and matches up well again here. Expect them to shoot efficiently and lean on their physicality late. This should be another close battle, but the Bulldogs have shown they can execute down the stretch.

Betting Pick: Gonzaga Bulldogs -1.5 over Saint Mary’s Gaels
Final Score Prediction: Gonzaga 78, Saint Mary’s 76

Best of luck on Saturday. Whether you are fading or following, make sure to track every play at BetStamp.

Let the Madness begin.

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