Men's college basketball picks today: Thursday's best bets highlight Pennsylvania vs. Illinois play [11/5/2026]

Pennsylvania vs. Illinois Under 172.5 points (-105)

• Edge: 4.1%
• Probability: 55.3%
• Matchup: Pennsylvania vs. Illinois (8:30PM ET)

Our model has identified value on Under 172.5 points in Pennsylvania vs. Illinois at -105 odds. A 55.3% probability produces an edge of 4.1%, making this the strongest play for today's men's college basketball slate.

Cal Poly +30.5 (-102)

• Edge: 2.5%
• Probability: 53%
• Matchup: Cal Poly vs. Arizona (10:30PM ET)

Our model finds value on Cal Poly +30.5 at -102, supported by an edge of 2.5%.

Bethune-Cookman vs. Texas Tech Over 150.5 points (-107)

• Edge: 2.1%
• Probability: 53.8%
• Matchup: Bethune-Cookman vs. Texas Tech (9:00PM ET)

Our model has uncovered value on Bethune-Cookman vs. Texas Tech Over 150.5 points at -107. A 53.8% probability produces a 2.1% edge, making this a strong play for today's men's college basketball action.

NCAAM best bets summary: Thursday, 11/5/2026

As of 8:04PM ET, here is our top men's college basketball bet by edge recommended by our model:

List of upcoming men's college basketball games to bet on now

• Pennsylvania vs. Illinois (8:30PM ET, Thursday)
• South Florida vs. DePaul (8:30PM ET, Thursday)
• Towson vs. Utah (9:00PM ET, Thursday)
• Bethune-Cookman vs. Texas Tech (9:00PM ET, Thursday)
• Cal Poly vs. Arizona (10:30PM ET, Thursday)
• Massachusetts vs. Boston College (4:00PM ET, Friday)
• Northeastern vs. Virginia (5:00PM ET, Friday)
• Arkansas-Pine Bluff vs. Baylor (5:00PM ET, Friday)
• Eastern Washington vs. Oregon (6:00PM ET, Friday)
• Valparaiso vs. Purdue (6:30PM ET, Friday)

Conclusion

Our men's college basketball best bets are locked and loaded for November 5, 2026, featuring plays such as under 172.5 points in the Pennsylvania vs. Illinois matchup. Powered by advanced simulations, these picks are here to boost your betting game.

Our predictions are rooted in current data to help you make informed decisions. For additional resources and advice, head to our Responsible Gambling hub.

All odds and probabilities in this article are correct and accurate at the time of publication.