North Texas Mean Green vs Tulane Green Wave Picks and Predictions for Sunday January 18 2026
Use Code WWWC The North Texas Mean Green hit the road on Sunday evening to take on the Tulane Green Wave at Devlin Fieldhouse. Tip-off is scheduled for 5:00 PM EST, and the game will be televised nationally on ESPN2. At the time of publication, the money line, spread, and total are all off the board, but this American Athletic Conference matchup still offers plenty to break down from a handicapping perspective. Be sure to check out our free college basketball picks for updated odds and expert analysis before placing any wagers.
Mean Green Grinding It Out Away from Home
North Texas enters this matchup with a 10-7 overall record and has had mixed results on the road this season. Over their last five games, the Mean Green have recently lost to Wichita State, South Florida, and Memphis, while picking up wins over Tulsa and Science and Arts Oklahoma. Those results show a team that can compete defensively but has struggled to generate consistent offense against stronger conference opponents.
From a statistical standpoint, North Texas averages 69.8 points per game while allowing just 64.9 points per contest, reflecting their defense-first identity. The Mean Green shoot 44% from the field and pull down 32.8 rebounds per game, while averaging 13.1 assists, 5.2 blocks, and 9.8 steals per game. That defensive activity often keeps them competitive even when shots are not falling.
The hallmark of this North Texas squad is pressure defense. The Mean Green excel at forcing turnovers and protecting the rim, which allows them to slow the pace and frustrate opponents. However, when they fall behind early, their lower scoring output can make it difficult to mount comebacks on the road.
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Tulane Finding Its Rhythm at Home
Tulane comes into Sunday’s contest with a 12-5 overall record and has been solid on its home floor this season. In their last five games, the Green Wave have earned wins over UTSA, Florida Atlantic, East Carolina, and Portland State, with their lone setback coming against UAB. That stretch reflects a team that has found consistency on both ends of the floor.
Statistically, Tulane is averaging 73.9 points per game while allowing 73.4 points per contest. The Green Wave shoot 43% from the field and grab 31.6 rebounds per game, while posting 13.3 assists, 4.9 blocks, and 8.4 steals per game. While the numbers are not flashy, they reflect a balanced and disciplined approach.
Tulane’s biggest strength is its ability to control tempo at home. The Green Wave are comfortable playing in half-court sets and limiting mistakes, which often forces visiting teams to execute patiently. Against defensively minded opponents like North Texas, that composure can be a decisive advantage.
North Texas Mean Green vs Tulane Green Wave Pick
North Texas Mean Green vs Tulane Green Wave Pick
- Pick: Tulane Green Wave
With no spread available at the time of publication, I lean toward Tulane in this matchup. The Green Wave are playing more consistent basketball right now and have shown the ability to close games at home. North Texas’ defense will keep things tight, but Tulane’s steadier offense gives them the edge late.
North Texas Mean Green vs Tulane Green Wave Total Pick
- Pick: Under
I also lean toward the under once a total is posted. North Texas consistently drags games into lower-scoring territory with its defensive pressure, and Tulane is comfortable slowing the pace when needed. That combination points toward a game that stays below the market number.
Final Score Prediction: Tulane Green Wave 71, North Texas Mean Green 65
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