#9 Kansas vs. #5 Iowa State Predictions, Odds & Betting Picks: Big 12 Top-10 Showdown

On Saturday afternoon in Ames, one of the most anticipated games in the college basketball schedule takes place, featuring No. 9 Kansas traveling to challenge No. 5 Iowa State in a significant Big 12 clash.

The Cyclones have proven just how tough they are at home this season, whereas the Jayhawks come in with considerable momentum following a big victory against Arizona. This sets up for some exciting #9 Kansas vs #5 Iowa St. picks!

#9 Kansas vs. #5 Iowa St. Predictions for NCAAB on ABC, 2/14

Iowa State has established itself as one of the most well-rounded teams in the nation, currently ranking in the top-15 for both offensive and defensive efficiency, while averaging 84.6 points per game.

In contrast, Kansas averages 78.0 points per game and is recognized for having one of the most formidable interior defenses in the country. The Cyclones are favored by 6.5 points at home, with the total points expected to be in the mid-140s. In the end, our #9 Kansas vs #5 Iowa St. predictions are riding with…

#9 Kansas vs. #5 Iowa St. Spread Pick: Jayhawks +6.5 (-102 at FanDuel Sportsbook)

The Jayhawks come into this matchup riding an eight-game winning streak, which includes a notable 82-78 victory over Arizona. In that contest, Kansas demonstrated just exactly why they’re equipped for close, high-stakes matchups.

They limited Arizona to 44.4% shooting, forced 12 turnovers, and successfully converted 21 of 25 free throws. This strategy is effective in challenging road environments: defend without fouling, maintain possession, and capitalize at the free-throw line.

Turnovers play a pivotal role in this contest. Iowa State’s defense excels at forcing errors, generating an average of 15.5 turnovers per game. Conversely, Kansas is among the top teams in the Big 12 for ball security, averaging only 10.4 turnovers per game. If the Cyclones fail to secure easy transition points from live-ball turnovers, their margin for separation diminishes significantly.

Additionally, the battle in the paint is arguably the most crucial matchup in this game. Iowa State’s offense relies heavily on efficiency within the arc, boasting a team shooting percentage of over 50% from the field. However, Kansas ranks ninth nationally in opponent two-point shooting percentage, allowing only 44.9% inside. This serves as a direct counter to the Cyclones' offensive strategy.

Another advantageous factor for Kansas is their control of the pace of play. Iowa State scores 108.5 points per 100 possessions, but Kansas defends with a top-35 efficiency rating. The Jayhawks are adept at transforming games into half-court confrontations. Should this matchup evolve into a 70–72 possession game rather than a fast-paced contest, covering the +6.5 spread becomes considerably more manageable.

From a betting perspective, Kansas has proven to be the more dependable team throughout the season. The Jayhawks hold a record of 16-8 against the spread, while Iowa State stands at 13-11. Furthermore, when favored by 6.5 points or more, the Cyclones have a record of only 9-9 against the spread — far from dominant for a team being regarded as a powerhouse at home.

So, while Hilton Coliseum is recognized as one of the most challenging venues in the nation, this is Kansas. Bill Self’s squad is well-acquainted with road challenges in the Big 12. They’re averaging 75.1 points per game in away contests and have consistently demonstrated their ability to perform effectively in close games.

Is it reasonable to expect Iowa State to secure a victory in this one? For sure. However, thinking that they’ll generate sufficient separation to cover the 6.5 points against a top-10 opponent is a much more challenging task. So, our #9 Kansas vs #5 Iowa St. predictions will side with the Jayhawks.

How To Watch #9 Kansas vs. #5 Iowa St. NCAAB on ABC

• Date: Saturday, February 14, 2026
• Time: 1:00 p.m. ET
• Location: Hilton Coliseum (Ames, IA)
• TV: ABC

#9 Kansas vs. #5 Iowa St. Odds, Spreads, Total & Betting Lines

To piggyback off of our #9 Kansas vs #5 Iowa St. predictions for Saturday, we’re excited to present the most recent #9 Kansas vs #5 Iowa St. odds from FanDuel Sportsbook for this thrilling matchup:

• Money Line (ML): Jayhawks +270 | Cyclones -345
• Spread: Jayhawks +6.5 (-102) | Cyclones -6.5 (-120)
• Over/Under (O/U): 145.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

#9 Kansas vs. #5 Iowa St. Injury Report & Latest News

Kansas Injury Report

• J. Cross (F) – Questionable, Undisclosed
• W. Evers (G) – Out, Undisclosed

Iowa State Injury Report

• X. Mitchell (F) – Doubtful, Undisclosed
• M. Williams (G) – Out, Hip

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