Mountain West Basketball: 2018 Conference Tournament Preview

First Round of the Mountain West Tournament

(8) UNLV vs. (9) Air Force

While UNLV will be the favorite to win this game, especially on their own home floor, the Falcons still have more than a fighting chance to pull off the upset. Not only have the Rebels failed to defend their home floor with any consistency, they are also one of the coldest teams in the Mountain West, losing five straight games to end the regular season. Expect an ugly win for the Rebels, who will be relying on the size of Brandon McCoy and Shakur Juiston.

Prediction: UNLV 76 – Air Force 71

(7) Utah State vs. (10) Colorado State

Colorado State has been the most disappointing team in the Mountain West Conference, culminating in the firing of Head Coach Larry Eustachy. Picked to finish fifth in the preseason poll, the Rams have just four wins in Mountain West play, including two over last place San Jose State and one over Utah State. Utah State on the other hand, has been pretty competitive despite their 8-10 finish in conference play. Unless some miracle happens, Colorado State just doesn’t have it together enough to pull off an upset.

Prediction: Utah State 77 – Colorado State 70

(6) Wyoming vs. (11) San Jose State

Does this game even needs an explanation? San Jose State is by far the lowest performing team in the Mountain West Conference, with only one win in conference play. Wyoming, on the other hand, boast two All-Mountain West First Team selections and should have no problem running the Spartans up and down the floor. Barring injuries to both Justin James and Hayden Dalton, Wyoming should win this one easily, and even injuries may not be enough to get San Jose State the win.

Prediction: Wyoming 81 – San Jose State 67