A method and system for selecting a speed ratio for a continuously variable transmission (CVT) of a vehicle during braking. The method and system includes determining a Current Actual Speed Ratio of the CVT when the distance of a brake pedal travel exceeds a predetermined distance, determining, by a transmission control module (TCM), an amount of Available Speed Ratio Change (Δr), a Current Ratio Change Capability (Current-{dot over (r)}), and a Predictive Ratio Change Capability (Predictive-{dot over (r)}). The method further includes the TCM calculating a Time to Reach the Minimum Under-drive Ratio (tUD), calculating a Predicted Velocity of the Vehicle (vPr) using (tUD), determining a Desired Speed Ratio of the CVT using the Predicted Velocity of the Vehicle (vPr), and actuating the CVT to the Desired Speed Ratio.