McNeese Cowboys vs. UT Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros: Game Preview and Betting Odds
The stage is set for an exciting matchup as the McNeese Cowboys (23-5, 16-3 Southland) prepare to put their impressive 15-game home winning streak on the line against the UT Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros (16-12, 12-7 Southland) on Monday, February 23, 2026. This battle will take place at The Legacy Center in Lake Charles, Louisiana, with the game tipping off at 7:30 p.m. ET, available live on ESPN+. The Cowboys are heavy favorites in this contest, holding a spread of -11.5, while the total points over/under is set at 145.5.
Game Time and Venue Details
- Date: Monday, February 23, 2026
- Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
- Broadcast: ESPN+
- Location: Lake Charles, Louisiana
- Venue: The Legacy Center
Betting Odds Overview
The current odds for this encounter reveal the following:
- McNeese Odds to Win: -917
- UT Rio Grande Valley Odds to Win: +589
- Spread: McNeese (-11.5)
- Total Points Over/Under: 145.5
For more insights on betting trends, refer to Betsperts.
Team Performance and Trends
McNeese Cowboys Betting Trends
McNeese has shown a solid record this season, posting an 8-6 record against the spread when favored by 11.5 points or more. Overall, the Cowboys hold a 13-13-0 record against the spread, illustrating their competitive edge in various matchups.
UT Rio Grande Valley Betting Trends
On the other hand, UT Rio Grande Valley has managed a 2-1 record against the spread as an underdog by 11.5 points or more this season. The Vaqueros have a 14-12-0 betting record, showcasing their resilience on the court.
Average Points and Insights
Both teams combine for an impressive 157.1 points per game, exceeding the set over/under of 145.5. Their opponents, however, average a combined 136 points per game, hinting at a potential low-scoring affair compared to the possibility of high-scoring expectations.
McNeese Cowboys Insights
- Scoring Differential: McNeese boasts a +407 scoring differential, averaging 80.9 points per game while allowing 66.4, making them the 75th highest scorer and 21st defensively in college basketball.
- Rebounds: The Cowboys average 32.3 rebounds per game compared to 28.9 by their opponents, ranking them 173rd nationally.
- Three-Point Shooting: McNeese converts 6.8 three-pointers per game at a rate of 32.6%, while opponents capitalize on 8.4 threes at a 33.4% shooting rate.
UT Rio Grande Valley Insights
- Scoring and Defense: The Vaqueros outscore opponents by 6.6 points per game, recording an average of 76.2 points while allowing 69.6 points per game.
- Rebounds: With 31.5 rebounds per game, they allow 29.5 to opponents, resulting in a slight edge in rebounding.
- Three-Point Success: The Vaqueros excel at the three-point line, netting 9.4 three-pointers at a 37.6% clip, compared to 7 made by opponents at 31%.
Key Players to Watch
McNeese Key Players
- Larry Johnson: Leading scorer with 16.8 points and 5.1 rebounds per game.
- Garwey Dual: Primary passer at 4.2 assists per game, with a scoring average of 8.3 points.
- Tyshawn Archie: Top three-point shooter contributing 1.9 threes per game.
- Defensive Standouts: Dual leads steals (1.8 per game), while Jerrell Colbert averages 1.3 blocks.
UT Rio Grande Valley Key Players
- Koree Cotton: Leading scorer with 13.5 points per game.
- Marvin McGhee III: Top rebounder with 4.9 rebounds per game.
- Jaylen Washington: Lead playmaker with four assists per game.
- Shooting Threat: McGhee knocks down 2.3 three-pointers per game.
Predictions for the Game
- Pick Against the Spread (ATS): UT Rio Grande Valley (+11.5)
- Over/Under Prediction: Under (145.5)
- Final Score Prediction: McNeese 77, UT Rio Grande Valley 68
Conclusion
As both teams gear up for this captivating matchup, fans and bettors alike are eager to see whether the McNeese Cowboys can maintain their formidable home record or if the UT Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros will pull off an upset. With the odds and statistics laid out, this game promises to deliver an exciting viewing experience for college basketball enthusiasts. For further details on betting strategies and NCAA basketball trends, visit Bleacher Nation.
