SharpBetz
NCAAB

Central Arkansas Bears vs Florida Gulf Coast Eagles

Saturday, February 21, 2026

Final Score C Arkansas 71 - FGCU 75
Spread: Total: L

Matchup Analysis

This NCAAB matchup features Central Arkansas Bears (18-10 (13-1)) traveling to take on Florida Gulf Coast Eagles (13-15 (10-6)) at Alico Arena, Fort Myers, FL. The C Arkansas hold a clear statistical edge this season, outperforming the FGCU by 5.7 points per game in scoring margin. That differential will be a key factor in this matchup. On offense, FGCU averages 79.1 points per game, which exceeds what the C Arkansas defense typically allows (73.8 PPG). That mismatch could give the home side opportunities to exploit. The C Arkansas offense puts up 80.3 PPG and faces a FGCU defense allowing 78.2 PPG. The visitors have the offensive firepower to stay in this one. Home court advantage is worth approximately 3.5 points in NCAAB, and FGCU will look to leverage their home crowd. Our model sees this as essentially a coin-flip game, projecting just a 0.2-point margin. Expect a tight finish. The 68% confidence interval ranges from FGCU winning by 13 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

CARK C Arkansas
Stat
FGCU FGCU
18-10 (13-1)
Record
13-15 (10-6)
Last 10
80.3
PPG
79.1
73.8
Opp PPG
78.2

Current Odds

Team Moneyline Spread Total
CARK Central Arkansas Bears
-112 -1.5 O 152.5
FGCU Florida Gulf Coast Eagles
-108 +1.5 U 152.5
Source: Draft Kings Updated: Feb 21, 10:43 PM
Opening line: +1.5 / O/U 151.5

Model Projection

Team Moneyline Spread Total
CARK Central Arkansas Bears
-103 -0.2 O 159.4
FGCU Florida Gulf Coast Eagles
+103 +0.2 U 159.4
Source: Model Updated: Feb 21, 5:08 PM

Our Picks

Spread
Pass
Model: 0.2 | Edge below threshold
Total L
Over (opened at 151.5)
65% Confidence

Recent Trends

FGCU has struggled this season at 13-15 (10-6). 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. C Arkansas sits at 18-10 (13-1) 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

FGCU

Advantages

  • Home court advantage and crowd support
  • Strong offense averaging 79.1 PPG
  • Familiarity with home venue and routines

Disadvantages

  • Sub-.500 record at 13-15 (10-6) raises concerns
  • Defense allows 78.2 PPG — a vulnerability

C Arkansas

Advantages

  • Strong 18-10 (13-1) overall record this season
  • Potent offense averaging 80.3 PPG
  • Road underdog motivation — play with less pressure

Disadvantages

  • Playing on the road without home crowd support
  • Road fatigue and travel can impact energy levels

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