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NCAAB

South Carolina State Bulldogs vs Norfolk State Spartans

Saturday, February 21, 2026

Final Score SC State 71 - Norfolk St 90
Spread: Total: L

Matchup Analysis

This NCAAB matchup features South Carolina State Bulldogs (7-18 (6-4)) traveling to take on Norfolk State Spartans (13-14 (8-3)) at Joseph G. Echols Hall, Norfolk, VA. The Norfolk St hold a clear statistical edge this season, outperforming the SC State by 16.6 points per game in scoring margin. That differential will be a key factor in this matchup. Norfolk St averages 75.5 points per game, but they face a SC State defense that holds opponents to 79.6 PPG. The visitors' defensive prowess could limit the home team's scoring output. Meanwhile, SC State scores 65.8 PPG but faces a Norfolk St defense that limits opponents to 72.6 PPG. The home team's defensive effort could be the difference-maker. Home court advantage is worth approximately 3.5 points in NCAAB, and Norfolk St will look to leverage their home crowd. The Norfolk St are heavy favorites in this one, with our model projecting a 11.8-point advantage. The 68% confidence interval ranges from Norfolk St winning by 25 to losing by 2. 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

SCST SC State
Stat
NORF Norfolk St
7-18 (6-4)
Record
13-14 (8-3)
Last 10
65.8
PPG
75.5
79.6
Opp PPG
72.6

Current Odds

Team Moneyline Spread Total
SCST South Carolina State Bulldogs
+440 +10.5 O 140.5
NORF Norfolk State Spartans
-600 -10.5 U 140.5
Source: Draft Kings Updated: Feb 22, 9:05 PM
Opening line: -10.5 / O/U 145.5

Model Projection

Team Moneyline Spread Total
SCST South Carolina State Bulldogs
+637 +11.8 O 141.3
NORF Norfolk State Spartans
-637 -11.8 U 141.3
Source: Model Updated: Feb 21, 5:08 PM

Our Picks

Spread
Pass
Model: -11.8 | Edge below threshold
Total L
Under (opened at 145.5)
58% Confidence

Recent Trends

Norfolk St has struggled this season at 13-14 (8-3). 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. It's been a difficult season for SC State at 7-18 (6-4). Traveling to face Norfolk St presents a significant challenge, though every game is a chance to build for the future. 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

Norfolk St

Advantages

  • Home court advantage and crowd support
  • Strong offense averaging 75.5 PPG
  • Familiarity with home venue and routines

Disadvantages

  • Sub-.500 record at 13-14 (8-3) raises concerns
  • Potential for inconsistency in key moments

SC State

Advantages

  • Nothing to lose as the visiting team
  • Road underdog motivation — play with less pressure

Disadvantages

  • Playing on the road without home crowd support
  • Struggling with a 7-18 (6-4) record this season

More NCAAB Picks for Saturday, February 21, 2026