SharpBetz
NCAAB

Bethune-Cookman Wildcats vs Jackson State Tigers

Tuesday, February 17, 2026

Final Score Bethune 86 - Jackson St 91
Spread: L Total:

Matchup Analysis

This NCAAB matchup features Bethune-Cookman Wildcats (13-13 (8-1)) traveling to take on Jackson State Tigers (9-17 (5-3)) at Lee E. Williams Athletics and Assembly Center, Jackson, MS. The Bethune hold a clear statistical edge this season, outperforming the Jackson St by 5.4 points per game in scoring margin. That differential will be a key factor in this matchup. Jackson St averages 71.9 points per game, but they face a Bethune defense that holds opponents to 72.5 PPG. The visitors' defensive prowess could limit the home team's scoring output. The Bethune offense puts up 75.0 PPG and faces a Jackson St defense allowing 74.8 PPG. The visitors have the offensive firepower to stay in this one. Home court advantage is worth approximately 3.5 points in NCAAB, and Jackson St will look to leverage their home crowd. Our model sees this as essentially a coin-flip game, projecting just a 0.2-point margin. Expect a tight finish. The 68% confidence interval ranges from Jackson St winning by 12 to losing by 13. Our model aligns closely with the market on this one, suggesting the oddsmakers have priced this game efficiently. Look for small edges in the total and moneyline markets to capitalize on any remaining value.

Team Comparison

BCU Bethune
Stat
JKST Jackson St
13-13 (8-1)
Record
9-17 (5-3)
Last 10
75.0
PPG
71.9
72.5
Opp PPG
74.8

Current Odds

Team Moneyline Spread Total
BCU Bethune-Cookman Wildcats
-230 -4.5 O 150.5
JKST Jackson State Tigers
+190 +4.5 U 150.5
Source: Draft Kings Updated: Feb 19, 7:40 PM
Opening line: +5.5 / O/U 148.5

Model Projection

Team Moneyline Spread Total
BCU Bethune-Cookman Wildcats
-102 -0.2 O 146.9
JKST Jackson State Tigers
+102 +0.2 U 146.9
Source: Model Updated: Feb 19, 7:08 PM

Our Picks

Spread L
Bethune (opened at +5.5)
55% Confidence
Total
Pass
Model: 146.9 | Edge below threshold

Recent Trends

Jackson St has struggled this season at 9-17 (5-3). The wins have been hard to come by, and the team is looking for answers on both ends of the floor. Home court advantage will be critical for any chance at pulling off an upset. Bethune sits at 13-13 (8-1) on the season. They've been competitive in most outings but have had their share of inconsistent performances. On the road, they'll need to bring their best effort to come away with a win. When these teams meet, the home team typically has the edge given the crowd advantage and familiarity factor. The team that controls tempo and limits turnovers will likely dictate the outcome of this matchup.

Matchup Edges

Jackson St

Advantages

  • Home court advantage and crowd support
  • Familiarity with home venue and routines

Disadvantages

  • Sub-.500 record at 9-17 (5-3) raises concerns
  • Potential for inconsistency in key moments

Bethune

Advantages

  • Nothing to lose as the visiting team
  • Road underdog motivation — play with less pressure

Disadvantages

  • Playing on the road without home crowd support
  • Road fatigue and travel can impact energy levels