WCC Basketball: 2018 conference tournament preview
By Shaun Gordon
Predicting the tournament – Semis and final
Semifinals
(4) San Francisco vs. (1) Gonzaga
If the Dons were taking on St. Mary’s instead, the upset would be a very real possibility. They’ve beaten the Gaels once already and are playing well enough to do it again. But the only WCC team hotter than San Francisco right now is Gonzaga. The Bulldogs are just too deep and too talented, especially in the post. The Dons have played the Zags close both times this year though, so don’t rule out the upset. Prediction: Gonzaga
(3) BYU vs. (2) St. Mary’s
The Cougars almost knocked off the Gaels in Provo, ultimately losing in overtime. They also played them close in Moraga until St. Mary’s pulled away late. A BYU team that’s playing good basketball can knock off St. Mary’s, but we haven’t seen that good BYU team since mid-season. Look for the Cougars to keep it close, but the Gaels’ experience and Jock Landale will win it for St. Mary’s down the stretch. Prediction: St. Mary’s
Next: Bracketology: Where are the WCC favorites?
Championship Game
(2) St. Mary’s vs. (1) Gonzaga
This is the heavyweight title that seems destined for the Las Vegas stage. Both teams have won once this year and on each other’s home court. It will all come down to Jock Landale in this game. If he plays like he did in their first matchup, the Gaels have the edge. If the Bulldogs stymie him like they did in game two, then St. Mary’s doesn’t have a fighting chance for the upset. St. Mary’s coach Randy Bennett will have found a counter to Gonzaga’s defense against Landale and don’t expect the best player in the conference to have another miserable night.
Prediction: St. Mary’s