UT Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros vs. SE Louisiana Lions: February 21, 2026 Game Preview
On Saturday, February 21, 2026, the UT Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros (15-12, 11-7 Southland) will clash with the SE Louisiana Lions (8-19, 5-13 Southland) in a highly anticipated matchup at the University Center in Hammond, Louisiana. The game is scheduled to tip off at 4:30 p.m. ET and will be broadcast on ESPN+. The Vaqueros enter as 3.5-point favorites, looking to extend their impressive five-game road win streak. Fans can expect a thrilling contest, with the over/under set at 134.5 points.
Betting Odds for UT Rio Grande Valley vs. SE Louisiana
- UT Rio Grande Valley odds to win: -185
- SE Louisiana odds to win: +145
- Spread: UT Rio Grande Valley (-3.5)
- Total Points: 134.5
Key Game Information
- Date: Saturday, February 21, 2026
- Time: 4:30 p.m. ET
- TV: ESPN+
- Location: University Center, Hammond, Louisiana
Team Trends and Season Records
Betting Trends
The UT Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros have struggled when favored by 3.5 points or more this season, boasting a record of 2-6 against the spread (ATS) in such scenarios. Conversely, SE Louisiana holds a 7-8 record ATS when positioned as an underdog of 3.5 points or greater.
Overall, both teams average a combined 139.6 points per game, comfortably exceeding the set over/under of 134.5. Additionally, UT Rio Grande Valley typically scores 10.4 points more than this game’s total, while the Lions average just under the line.
Season Performance
UT Rio Grande Valley Insights
The Vaqueros have showcased their scoring prowess by averaging 75.5 points per game, ranking 193rd in college basketball. Defensively, they allow 69.4 points, placing them 72nd. This results in a scoring differential of +6.1 points per game.
On the boards, UT Rio Grande Valley edges its opponents with an average of 31.8 rebounds per game. As a formidable shooting team, the Vaqueros sink 9.2 three-pointers per game, significantly outpacing their opponents’ average of 7.1.
SE Louisiana Insights
In contrast, SE Louisiana has faced challenges offensively, averaging just 64.1 points per game, landing them in 356th place. They permit 69.2 points per game, leading to a negative scoring differential of -5.1 points. The Lions are also getting out-rebounded, averaging 29.7 boards compared to 31.7 from their opponents.
Three-point shooting remains an issue for SE Louisiana as well, with a low average of 6.1 makes per game at a 28.4% success rate, compared to 34.4% from rival teams.
Player Highlights
Key Players for UT Rio Grande Valley
- Koree Cotton: Leading scorer with 13.4 points per game, along with 5.0 rebounds and 2.4 assists.
- Marvin McGhee III: The team’s best rebounder, grabbing 5.0 boards per game, and a capable shooter from beyond the arc.
- Jaylen Washington: Key playmaker with an average of 4.0 assists per game and also leads the team in steals.
Key Players for SE Louisiana
- Jeremy Elyzee: The Lions’ top scorer, averaging 10.6 points per game.
- Isaiah Gaines: Leading rebounder with 6.4 rebounds per game, also contributing defensively.
- Peter Hemschemeier: Key facilitator with 2.0 assists per game and reliable from three-point territory.
Game Predictions
- Pick Against the Spread: UT Rio Grande Valley (-3.5)
- Pick for Total Points: Over (134.5)
- Final Score Prediction: UT Rio Grande Valley 73, SE Louisiana 66
Conclusion
As the UT Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros aim to extend their winning streak, they face an SE Louisiana Lions team looking to rectify their recent form. With key players stepping up for both teams, this matchup promises to be an exciting contest for basketball fans. For more insights and detailed predictions, check out the latest coverage and betting options at Betsperts.
