How to watch UT Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros vs. Lamar Cardinals: Live stream info, TV channel, game time | Feb. 16
The Lamar Cardinals (12-14, 7-10 Southland) head to Edinburg to face the UT Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros (14-12, 10-7 Southland) on Monday, February 16, 2026. Tip-off is set for 7: 30 p. m. ET at UTRGV Fieldhouse. Here’s what to know before the Southland clash, including recent form, betting lines and the key matchups that could decide the game.
Latest form and roster notes
Lamar arrives on a cold stretch, having dropped three straight games away from home. The Cardinals most recently fell 76-63 on the road to Texas A& M–Corpus Christi, with Rob Lee Jr. delivering a 24-point outing on 58. 33% shooting and going 2-of-5 from long range. Braden East added 15 points and pulled down seven rebounds in that loss.
UTRGV comes in with slightly better momentum but also a recent setback, losing 66-57 at home to Stephen F. Austin. Koree Cotton led the Vaqueros with 15 points and two blocks while Jaylen Washington chipped in 13 points on 50% shooting. The Vaqueros have shown offensive versatility this season, ranking at or near the top of the league in shooting efficiency and three-pointers made per game.
From a statistical angle, Lamar brings plenty of playmaking and rebound strength. The Cardinals have been one of the league leaders in assists per game and offensive rebounds, which can create second-chance opportunities against a UTRGV defense that has allowed opponents to shoot under 44% on the year. UTRGV’s efficiency numbers — including true shooting and effective field-goal percentage — have been among the conference’s best, while their volume from beyond the arc gives them a dangerous perimeter element.
Betting lines, expectations and keys to the game
Early lines list UTRGV as the favorite by 6. 5 points, with the total set at 142. 5. Odds were last refreshed at 9: 33 p. m. ET on Monday. Predictive models lean toward the Vaqueros: a winning-team simulation places UTRGV’s chance of victory near 72%, while a spread-focused model gives the Vaqueros about a 58% probability of covering the number.
Key factors that will determine the outcome:
- Perimeter shooting: UTRGV’s three-point output can flip possession value quickly. If the Vaqueros heat up from deep, Lamar will need strong closeouts and disciplined rotations to stay within striking distance.
- Rebounding and second-chance points: Lamar’s offensive rebounding edge can be a difference-maker. The Cardinals must crash the offensive glass consistently to generate extra possessions against UTRGV’s efficient half-court offense.
- Ball security and assists: Lamar’s assist numbers indicate they excel when moving the ball. Limiting turnovers and finding high-percentage looks from inside and mid-range will blunt the Vaqueros’ efficiency advantages.
- Bench impact and depth: Both teams will rely on depth late. Matchups between reserve wings and guards could swing momentum on short runs, particularly if starters pick up foul trouble.
How to watch and what to expect
Tip-off is at 7: 30 p. m. ET on Monday, February 16, 2026, at UTRGV Fieldhouse in Edinburg, Texas. Broadcast and streaming options vary by region; viewers should check local listings and team channels for availability. Expect a physical Southland Conference contest with emphasis on transition defense, glass work and perimeter shot selection.
For bettors and bettors-minded fans, the spread and total reflect a projection for a moderately paced game with both teams capable of scoring in bunches if shots fall. Given Lamar’s recent road skid and UTRGV’s efficiency metrics, the Vaqueros enter as the logical pick, but turnovers and rebounding battles could tilt this matchup toward the visitors if Lamar executes its strengths.
Keep an eye on matchups in the paint and how each team decides to guard the three-point line — those tactical choices will likely decide whether this is a close conference tussle or a comfortable home win for UTRGV.
