NCAAB · Final

Princeton Tigers Defeat Columbia Lions 80-68

Saturday, January 31, 2026, 6:00 PM ET · Levien Gymnasium

Princeton Tigers 80, Columbia Lions 68, final. Our NCAAB picks are sealed as a hash before kickoff and settled in public, losses included.

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Quick answers

Who won Princeton Tigers vs Columbia Lions?

Princeton Tigers beat Columbia Lions 80-68 at Levien Gymnasium on January 31, 2026.

Who was favored in Princeton Tigers vs Columbia Lions?

Columbia Lions were the favorite at DraftKings, moneyline -245 (about 71% implied). The underdog won.

In a decisive matchup, the Princeton Tigers emerged victorious against the Columbia Lions with a final score of 80-68 at Levien Gymnasium. This win marks a significant achievement for Princeton, which has struggled this season with an away record of 0-5 prior to this game, while Columbia held a home record of 14-7. The game showcased Princeton's ability to capitalize on their chances, particularly in the second half, where they maintained a lead and executed effectively down the stretch.

Columbia entered the game with a mixed form, recording a 5-5 record in their last ten games, including a recent win against Dartmouth on January 24, where they scored 79 points. However, they faced challenges in their previous outings, averaging 78.2 points scored but allowing 84.8 points in their last five games. Their home performance had been relatively strong, but they struggled to contain opponents defensively, which was evident in their recent loss to Yale, where they allowed 91 points.

On the other hand, Princeton's recent form showed a 4-6 record in their last ten games, with their last outing resulting in a loss against Cornell. The Tigers averaged 69.0 points scored and allowed 70.0 points during this stretch. Despite this, they managed to turn the tide in this game, demonstrating a more robust offensive strategy that outperformed Columbia's defense.

Historically, Columbia has struggled against Princeton, with a head-to-head record of 0-2 in their last two meetings during the 2025 season. In their previous encounters, Columbia lost 68-73 at home and 67-71 away, indicating a trend that continued in this latest fixture.

In terms of injuries, the block does not provide specific details about player availability, but it is clear that both teams needed to rely on their key players to perform well. The absence of any major injuries could have played a role in the outcome, as both teams fielded their strongest lineups.

The betting market, as reported by DraftKings, had Columbia favored with a spread of -5.5, indicating expectations of a closer contest than what unfolded. The total for the game was set at 139.5, which reflects the anticipation of a competitive scoring environment. However, Princeton's performance exceeded these expectations, demonstrating their ability to execute offensively.

Conditions at Levien Gymnasium were typical for a college basketball game, with a lively atmosphere that often influences player performance. Fans witnessed a dynamic matchup, with Princeton's ability to stretch the floor and Columbia's attempts to respond defensively.

As the game progressed, viewers were treated to several key moments, including Jacob Huggins' successful free throws and Gerard O'Keefe's impressive three-point shot, which helped Princeton maintain their lead. The scoring plays highlighted Princeton's offensive efficiency, particularly in the second half, where they extended their lead to as much as 14 points.

In conclusion, the game showcased Princeton's resilience and ability to execute under pressure, while Columbia will need to reassess their defensive strategies moving forward. The final score of 80-68 reflects not only the outcome but also the ongoing challenges Columbia faces in their quest for consistency in the league.

Odds

Book	Spread	Total	Moneyline
DraftKings	COLU -5.5	139.5 o -108 / u -112	Princeton Tigers +200 · Columbia Lions -245

What these prices pay on $100 · What these numbers mean

Leaders

PointsKenny Noland20Columbia Lions
AssistsHampton Sanders4Columbia Lions
ReboundsConnor Igoe6Columbia Lions
PointsJack Stanton21Princeton Tigers
AssistsJack Stanton4Princeton Tigers
ReboundsMalik Abdullahi7Princeton Tigers

Recent form

Columbia Lions

Last 10: 5-5Streak W180.9 scored · 77.3 allowed per game2-1 at home

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