Western Kentucky Hilltoppers vs Delaware Blue Hens
Thursday, February 19, 2026
Final Score Western KY 88 - Delaware 87
Spread: L
Total: W
Matchup Analysis
This NCAAB matchup features Western Kentucky Hilltoppers (15-11 (10-4)) traveling to take on Delaware Blue Hens (9-17 (4-9)) at Bob Carpenter Center, Newark, DE. The Western KY hold a clear statistical edge this season, outperforming the Delaware by 8.1 points per game in scoring margin. That differential will be a key factor in this matchup.
On offense, Delaware averages 71.9 points per game, which exceeds what the Western KY defense typically allows (71.3 PPG). That mismatch could give the home side opportunities to exploit. The Western KY offense puts up 76.5 PPG and faces a Delaware defense allowing 74.8 PPG. The visitors have the offensive firepower to stay in this one.
Home court advantage is worth approximately 3.5 points in NCAAB, and Delaware will look to leverage their home crowd. Our model sees this as essentially a coin-flip game, projecting just a 2.0-point margin. Expect a tight finish. The 68% confidence interval ranges from Delaware winning by 10 to losing by 14.
Our model aligns closely with the market on this one, suggesting the oddsmakers have priced this game efficiently. Look for small edges in the total and moneyline markets to capitalize on any remaining value.
Team Comparison
WKU Western KY
Stat
DEL Delaware
15-11 (10-4)
Record
9-17 (4-9)
Last 10
76.5
PPG
71.9
71.3
Opp PPG
74.8
Current Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| WKU Western Kentucky Hilltoppers | -192 ↓ | -4.5 ↓ | O 139.5 |
| DEL Delaware Blue Hens | +160 ↑ | +4.5 ↑ | U 139.5 |
Source: Draft Kings Updated: Feb 19, 7:38 PM
Opening line: +3.5 / O/U 139.5
Model Projection
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| WKU Western Kentucky Hilltoppers | -129 | -2 | O 148.4 |
| DEL Delaware Blue Hens | +129 | +2 | U 148.4 |
Source: Model Updated: Feb 19, 6:55 PM
Our Picks
Spread
L
Western KY (opened at +3.5)
55% Confidence
Total
W
Over (opened at 139.5)
58% Confidence
Recent Trends
Delaware has struggled this season at 9-17 (4-9). The wins have been hard to come by, and the team is looking for answers on both ends of the floor. Home court advantage will be critical for any chance at pulling off an upset.
Western KY sits at 15-11 (10-4) on the season. They've been competitive in most outings but have had their share of inconsistent performances. On the road, they'll need to bring their best effort to come away with a win.
When these teams meet, the home team typically has the edge given the crowd advantage and familiarity factor. The team that controls tempo and limits turnovers will likely dictate the outcome of this matchup.
Matchup Edges
Delaware
Advantages
- Home court advantage and crowd support
- Familiarity with home venue and routines
Disadvantages
- Sub-.500 record at 9-17 (4-9) raises concerns
- Potential for inconsistency in key moments
Western KY
Advantages
- Potent offense averaging 76.5 PPG
- Nothing to lose as the visiting team
- Road underdog motivation — play with less pressure
Disadvantages
- Playing on the road without home crowd support
- Road fatigue and travel can impact energy levels