Georgia Bulldogs vs Kentucky Wildcats Picks and Predictions for Tuesday February 17 2026
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The Georgia Bulldogs travel to Lexington to take on the Kentucky Wildcats on Tuesday, February 17, 2026. Tip-off is set for 9:00 PM ET at Rupp Arena in Lexington, KY, with the game airing on ESPN. Kentucky enters as a 9.5-point home favorite, and the total is set at 164.5. At the time of this writing, the moneyline was not released. Be sure to check out our free college basketball picks for additional insight on today’s top matchups.
Bulldogs Bringing the Offense to Lexington
Georgia enters this matchup at 17-8 overall and 5-7 in SEC play. The Bulldogs recently lost to OU 94-78 and FLA 86-66, but they did pick up a win at LSU 83-71. They also dropped close contests to TA&M 92-77 and TENN 86-85 in overtime. While Georgia has struggled to string together wins in conference play, they have consistently put points on the board.
The Bulldogs are averaging an impressive 90.3 points per game while allowing 78.4 points per contest. They shoot 47% from the field and pull down 39.7 rebounds per game. Georgia also averages 14.6 assists per game, showing decent offensive movement.
One of Georgia’s biggest strengths is their defensive activity. They average 6.6 blocks and 8.6 steals per game, which creates extra possessions and fuels their up-tempo style. However, their defense has allowed nearly 80 points per game, which can become problematic against efficient offenses.
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Wildcats Looking to Protect Rupp Arena
Kentucky comes into this contest at 17-8 overall and 8-4 in SEC action. The Wildcats recently fell to FLA 92-83 but secured wins over TENN 74-71, OU 94-78, and ARK 85-77, with a loss at VAN 80-55. Kentucky has been solid at home and will look to bounce back after their most recent defeat.
The Wildcats are averaging 81.6 points per game while allowing 72.2 points per contest. They shoot 47% from the field and average 37.9 rebounds and 16.2 assists per game. Kentucky’s offensive balance and ball movement have been strengths throughout conference play.
Defensively, Kentucky averages 4.8 blocks and 7.3 steals per game. Their ability to contest shots inside and pressure passing lanes could be key against Georgia’s high-scoring attack.
Georgia vs Kentucky Pick
Georgia vs Kentucky Pick
- Kentucky -9.5
Georgia can score, but their defensive inconsistencies are concerning against a well-balanced Kentucky team at home. Rupp Arena is a difficult place to play, and Kentucky’s ability to defend while still scoring efficiently gives them the edge. I expect the Wildcats to control the pace and pull away late.
Georgia vs Kentucky Total Pick
- Over 164.5
Georgia averages over 90 points per game and plays at a fast tempo. Kentucky can also score, and with both teams shooting 47% from the field, I anticipate plenty of offensive production. I believe this game climbs into the mid-to-high 160s.
Final Score Prediction: Kentucky 88, Georgia 80
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