Big Ten basketball: 2018 Conference Tournament preview

Key Teams in the Big Ten Tournament

Favorite in the Big Ten Tournament:

Michigan State

They were projected to win the Big Ten and on the final day, the Michigan State Spartans clinched the league outright. Of course they’re the favorites. Their only losses have come to Michigan and Ohio State. They both came in early January. This team is one of the hottest in the nation.

Cassius Winston is playing out of his mind. He’s hit 17 three-pointers in the last four games. Miles Bridges is playing like the All-American he is while not turning the ball over. Jaren Jackson Jr. is such a difference maker with his size and shooting ability. They’re so deep and ready to make a huge run late into March.

Biggest threat to the Favorite:

Michigan

Once again, here’s Michigan catching fire at the end of the season. When things seemed sketchy for a while after falling to Northwestern, there was question with the Wolverines. Since then, Michigan has won five straight and will have nothing worse than a five seed.

Either way, with a four or a five in the Big Ten Tournament, Michigan is in line to play the No. 1 seed in the semi-finals. Michigan has proven to be able to be Michigan State and Ohio State. The last two seasons, John Beilein and company has upset the No. 1 team in the Big Ten Tournament.