Atlantic Sun basketball: 2018 Conference Tournament preview

Key teams in the tournament

Favorite to win the Atlantic Sun: Florida Gulf Coast

It’s true that the Eagles lost two in a row towards the end of the season, but there’s no question that the betting money should be on this team. They’ve scored over 70 points in all but three games in the Atlantic Sun, and few teams have the firepower to keep up.

But this is far from a sure bet. Smaller leagues like this doesn’t have a neutral site tournament, so the games will be on the home court of the higher seed. That should be to the Eagles benefit, but both losses late in the season came at home.

Biggest threat to the favorite: Lipscomb

The second place finisher isn’t always the top contender, especially if they don’t match-up well. But the Bison has played Florida Gulf Coast tough in both games, even snatching a win. They started out 1-3, before winning nine of the team’s last 10 games. This team certainly has flaws of their own, but a potential finals battle might tilt their favor.

Team to look out for: North Florida

I wouldn’t bet one dollar that the Ospreys even win their first round game. They have literally one of the worst defenses in the country, and will let anyone drop at least 90 points on them.

But the offense of North Florida can’t be denied either. Only Villanova and Gonzaga can claim six players averaging double figure scoring, which makes them an instant threat. With only three wins needed to win this tournament, North Florida can certainly get hot and make a run.