MAC basketball: 2018 Conference Tournament preview
Quarterfinal predictions
(8) Central Michigan – (1) Buffalo
These two teams play at decidedly different tempos. Central Michigan prefers a slower-paced game, while Buffalo wants to go fast (Ricky Bobby, anyone?). If the Chippewas control the pace and trap Buffalo into a low-possession game, they will have a great chance to win. However, I still have to go with the Bulls in this one. Buffalo has been the class of the MAC all season and is capable of winning games at any tempo.
80-68 Buffalo
(5) Kent State – (4) Ball State
Ball State limps into the tournament having lost three straight. Kent State has an opportunity to gain some momentum by taking care of business against Northern Illinois in the opening round. Despite being the higher seed, Ball State will not benefit from home court advantage as these games will be in Cleveland. Kent State will win on the strength of its guards’ ability to get to the rim.
68-64 Kent State
(7) Miami (OH) – (2) Toledo
Youth versus experience. Toledo features more experienced players in its rotation than Miami (OH) does. The Red Hawks’ group of talented and confident freshmen should challenge Toledo. However, I ultimately predict that Toledo’s offense will be the determining factor. I don’t think that the Red Hawks’ offense will be able to keep up with the Rockets’ high octane attack.
80-70 Toledo
(6) Western Michigan – (3) Eastern Michigan
These two in-state rivals split their regular season meetings with the road team winning each game. In a neutral-site matchup in Cleveland, I think Eastern Michigan’s strong defense and solid balance on offense will propel the Eagles past the Broncos. Western Michigan has a dynamic playmaker in Wilder, but I think Eastern Michigan’s superior depth will be the key.