Kansas vs. Cincinnati prediction, pick, odds, spread: No. 8 Jayhawks look to hold serve in heated Big 12 race
CBS Sports
by
Isaac Trotter
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
No. 8 Kansas faces Cincinnati in a crucial Big 12 showdown, aiming to maintain its momentum in the conference race. The Jayhawks sit one game behind Arizona and Houston, with upcoming matchups against both teams pivotal to their championship hopes. This game is a test of resilience for Kansas, especially with star forward Darryn Peterson's health in question after experiencing cramping during a recent game. Coach Bill Self emphasized the importance of managing rotations while keeping key players effective.
Cincinnati, despite a subpar season record, poses a significant challenge, particularly with their strong post play and defensive intensity. The matchup will likely hinge on how Kansas handles Cincinnati's big men, Miller and Thiam, who present unique challenges for KU's defense. Flory Bidunga and freshman Bryson Tiller are expected to step up defensively, showcasing their ability to guard opposing stars.
The game also highlights the importance of role players like Tre White, whose offensive output has been inconsistent recently. His performance against Cincinnati’s defensive vulnerabilities could swing the game in Kansas' favor. On the other side, Sencire Harris’s point
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/20/2026