Thursday features a full college basketball slate with several mid-major teams and zero high-major schools taking the floor on the 19th day of February 2026. Will Chattanooga cover at Hawkins Arena in Macon, GA, against Mercer in a SoCon clash on Thursday night? Can Portland State cover a tough game against Idaho as small home favorites? Read on for our Thursday CBB Best Bets Feb. 19 article.
CBB Best Bet: Chattanooga +10.5 over Mercer
I like the Mocs here. Chattanooga enters Thursday night’s matchup against Mercer with a clear path to covering the 10.5-point spread. Boasting a solid 6-5 ATS record as an underdog this season, the Mocs have proven they can remain competitive regardless of the betting line. Historically, Chattanooga has dominated this rivalry, going 9-1 straight up and 6-3-1 ATS in their last 10 meetings with Mercer. Their defensive consistency and ability to control the tempo should keep this game within reach, disrupting Mercer’s offensive rhythm on their home court. Final score projection: MERCER BEARS 74, CHATTANOOGA MOCS 67.
CBB Best Bet: Portland State -3.5 over Idaho
I’m backing Portland State in this one. Portland State is well-positioned to cover the 3.5-point spread as home favorites against Idaho on Thursday night. The Vikings have been remarkably resilient this season, posting a perfect 4-0 ATS record following a loss in 2025-26. Their consistency as a favorite is equally impressive, sitting at 9-4-1 ATS this year. Additionally, Portland State has maintained an 8-4-1 ATS mark in conference play this season. History also favors the Vikings, as they are 8-2 straight up and 7-3 ATS in their last 10 games against the Vandals. Expect Portland State’s home-court advantage and historical dominance to secure the win and the cover. Final score projection: PORTLAND STATE VIKINGS 74, IDAHO VANDALS 66.
Thursday CBB Best Bets Feb. 19
- Chattanooga Mocs +10.5
- Portland State Vikings -3.5
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