The late February college basketball slate features several impactful matchups with tournament positioning on the line. We’re diving deep into three games where under totals appear to have value based on tempo profiles, defensive tendencies, and roster dynamics. Read on for our Tuesday CBB Best Bets Feb. 24 selections.
CBB Best Bet: Duke at Notre Dame, 7:00 p.m. ET
The No. 1 Duke Blue Devils (23-2) remain one of the nation’s most efficient offensive teams, but they’re also capable of controlling pace when a game slips away from them. Duke rebounded nicely after a tough loss to Michigan, showcasing disciplined offense and defensive focus in their latest wins. Meanwhile, Notre Dame (12-14) has struggled to maintain consistent scoring against top-end competition but plays hard on the defensive end. Notre Dame’s guards and wings are scrappy defenders, and the Irish will look to slow Duke’s rhythm inside.
Why the Under:
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Duke’s offense can be selective with shot attempts if they build an early lead, limiting possessions late.
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Notre Dame doesn’t play at a particularly fast pace — they average fewer possessions than top-10 tempo teams.
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The Irish’s scoring variance means they may struggle to keep up if Duke slows things down after a first-half lead.
Prediction:
Under 140 has value here — Duke’s ability to control tempo and Notre Dame’s inconsistent offense can keep this game below the number.
CBB Best Bets: Arizona at Baylor, 9:00 p.m. ET
The Arizona Wildcats (23-1) continue their relentless season near the top of the polls, blending efficient scoring with lockdown defense. Recent models project the Wildcats as probable victors in this matchup, but Baylor is no pushover at home. Baylor earned a gritty 73-68 win over Arizona State in their last outing, relying on balanced scoring and clutch shots from Obi Agbim and Tounde Yessoufou.
Why the Under:
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Both teams can execute slower half-court sets when shots aren’t falling early.
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Arizona’s defense limits transition opportunities, and Baylor has shown stretches of slow pace.
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Neither roster is likely to push quick pace if the half-court is contested, which can reduce total possessions.
Prediction:
Expect this one to play below the 154.5 total — strong defenses and controlled tempo from both sides should keep scoring under wraps.
CBB Best Bets: Tennessee at Missouri, 9:00 p.m. ET
The Tennessee Volunteers (18-7) are trending up and have earned national respect with a resume that recently landed them in AP Top 25 territory. Their physical defense and methodical offense can slow games to a crawl, particularly in hostile road environments. Meanwhile, the Missouri Tigers (17-7) sit on the NCAA bubble and face urgency to prove they belong — but that pressure often leads to more cautious shot selection and fewer fast-break chances.
Why the Under:
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Tennessee’s defense is elite at limiting opponent field goal percentages and transition scoring.
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Missouri’s offense tends to be more efficient in half-court sets versus open court, especially against ranked opponents.
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Combined, these profiles suggest fewer possessions and tougher scoring than the average high-tempo matchup.
Prediction:
The Under 144 looks solid — two disciplined defensive teams with a tendency to slow possessions and limit scoring volatility.
Tuesday CBB Best Bets Feb. 24
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