The desert is set to host one of the most significant games on Saturday’s college basketball schedule as Kansas travels to Tucson to face off against Arizona in a highly anticipated Big 12 clash. Arizona comes into the game with an impressive record of 26-2 overall and 13-2 in conference play, while Kansas holds a record of 21-7 and 11-4 in league competition.

Although the Wildcats are favored to win at home, the more intriguing aspect regarding #14 Kansas vs. #2 Arizona picks might not be the spread — it could be the total points. Given that both teams have been leaning towards lower-scoring, defensive games lately, this contest is poised to unfold quite differently from their previous high-scoring encounter.

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#14 Kansas vs. #2 Arizona Predictions for NCAAB on ESPN, 2/28

When these teams faced off earlier this season, Kansas emerged victorious with a score of 82-78. That match resulted in a combined score in the 160s, exceeding the total comfortably. Yet, it's important to consider the context.

Arizona continues to have one of the most dynamic offenses in the country, averaging 87.2 points per game. However, their last three victories — against Baylor (87-80), Houston (73-66), and BYU (75-68) — indicate a shift towards more methodical, half-court play. On the other hand, Kansas has intensified its defensive efforts, allowing only 68.2 points per game and restricting Houston to just 56 points in their latest match.

With both teams vying for better positioning in the Big 12 and Arizona looking to make up for its previous defeat, our #14 Kansas vs. #2 Arizona predictions anticipate a strategic, defense-focused battle rather than a high-scoring affair.

 

#14 Kansas vs. #2 Arizona Best Bet: Under 149.5 (-108 at DraftKings Sportsbook)

Arizona tends to favor a fast tempo, particularly at home, where they average 91.1 points per game. However, Kansas has shown the ability to control the rhythm against top-tier teams. In their 69-56 victory over Houston, the Jayhawks managed possessions effectively, minimized transition chances, and enforced a half-court style of play. This strategy can be replicated.

Kansas averages 76.6 points per game but sees a decline to 73.7 points per game when playing away. This is a significant difference. The Jayhawks are adept at grinding out possessions, utilizing Flory Bidunga in the paint, and maintaining strong defense throughout the entire shot clock.

Defensively, Kansas is recognized as one of the stronger units in the nation, allowing only 68.2 points per game and keeping opponents' shooting below 40%. They also average 6.0 blocked shots per game, showcasing elite rim protection. This is crucial when facing an Arizona team that excels in scoring inside and capitalizing on second-chance opportunities.

Arizona boasts an efficient offense, shooting 50% from the field and scoring 105.9 points per 100 possessions, but Kansas is well-equipped to match up against them. The Jayhawks effectively contest shots, rebound well (averaging 35.6 per game), and compel their opponents to execute in half-court settings.

In their last three games, Arizona has remained competitive well into the second half. The Wildcats secured victories over Houston (73-66) and BYU (75-68), with totals of 139 and 143 points respectively. These figures are comfortably below the line set for Saturday. Even the game against Baylor, which ended with a combined score of 167, required both teams to shoot efficiently and maintain a fast pace.

Kansas has also shown a tendency to trend under. Their win against Houston resulted in a total of 125 points. Additionally, their 74-56 defeat to Iowa State was significantly below inflated totals. In high-pressure conference games, the Jayhawks’ defense usually controls the tempo.

The earlier score of 82-78 appears to be more of an anomaly than a dependable predictor. That match featured strong shooting from both teams and late-game free throws that artificially raised the final score. In a rematch on Arizona’s home court, anticipate more effective defensive adjustments.

KenPom-style efficiency splits support the lean towards the under. Arizona permits only 83.7 points per 100 possessions (top-10 nationally). Kansas allows 88.1 per 100 (top-40 range). When two teams with top-40 defensive efficiency face off, totals in the high 140s can be overly ambitious.

With the previous high-scoring encounter affecting perceptions and both teams trending towards more controlled games, the under 149.5 (-108) appears to be the sharper choice according to our #14 Kansas vs. #2 Arizona predictions.

 

How To Watch #14 Kansas vs. #2 Arizona NCAAB on ESPN

  • Date: Saturday, February 28, 2026
  • Time: 4:00 p.m. ET
  • Location: McKale Center (Tucson, Arizona)
  • TV: ESPN

#14 Kansas vs. #2 Arizona Odds, Spreads, Total & Betting Lines

In light of our #14 Kansas vs. #2 Arizona predictions for this Saturday, we’re thrilled to share the most recent #14 Kansas vs. #2 Arizona odds from DraftKings Sportsbook for this exciting matchup:

  • Money Line (ML): Jayhawks +390 | Wildcats -520
  • Spread: Jayhawks +9.5 (-115) | Wildcats -9.5 (-105)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 149.5 (O: -112 | U: -108)

#14 Kansas vs. #2 Arizona Injury Report & Latest News

Kansas Injury Report

  • W. Thengvall (G) – Out, Undisclosed

Arizona Injury Report

  • K. Peat (F) – Probable, Lower Leg

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