Today's top games to watch, best bets, odds: Knicks at Cavaliers, NC State at No. 11 Virginia and more
CBS Sports
by
Gene Menez
February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Today’s sports lineup features several high-stakes matchups across the NBA and college basketball. With the Eastern Conference playoff race intensifying, the Knicks vs Cavaliers game is a must-watch as both teams jostle for position in the standings. Additionally, college basketball fans can look forward to a clash between NC State and Virginia, while the Timberwolves face the Trail Blazers in an intriguing NBA contest.
The Cavaliers and Knicks are locked in a fierce battle for supremacy in the Eastern Conference. Both teams have demonstrated strong performances recently, with Cleveland boasting a 5-1 record since acquiring James Harden, and New York winning 12 of their last 13 games. The game is expected to be a high-scoring affair, given both teams’ offensive capabilities. SportsLine predicts an over/under of 232.5 points, making it a potential shootout.
In college basketball, NC State takes on Virginia in a rematch of their earlier meeting. Virginia has been dominant at home with a 13-1 record, while NC State is coming off a strong win against North Carolina. This game could determine the ACC standings as both teams aim to extend their winning streaks.
Meanwhile, the Timberwolves face the Trail Blazers, offering an interesting dynamic given Minnesota’s inconsistent performance despite their talent. With the Trail Blazers rebuilding, this matchup provides an opportunity for the Timberwolves to regain momentum in the Western Conference.
These games matter because they could significantly impact the standings and playoff positioning. For NBA fans, the Knicks vs Cavaliers game is a pivotal contest in the Eastern race, while college basketball enthusiasts will be keen on seeing how NC State and Virginia fare in their high-stakes clash. Additionally, the Timberwolves’ performance against the Trail Blazers will be crucial in
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/24/2026