Mountain West Basketball: 2018 Conference Tournament Preview
By Connor Hope
Quarterfinals
(1) Nevada vs. (8) UNLV
This game should have some intrigue to it, as the UNLV Rebels try to redeem themselves for dropping a game on their home court to in-state rival Nevada. The Rebels have beaten Nevada already this season, but are not trending in the right direction heading into the tournament, and a win over Air Force would not really be a momentum shifter. Nevada on the other hand, while hurt, is just flat-out good. It would be a lot to ask of the young UNLV team to upset the Wolf Pack, and I am not sure they have the ability to pull it off.
Prediction: Nevada 87 – UNLV 78
(4) Fresno State vs. (5) San Diego State
San Diego State is quite possibly the most popular “dark horse” pick in the Mountain West Tournament, after beating both Boise State and Nevada to end the season. Fresno State, however, has been more consistent over the course of the season and boasts a star in Deshon Taylor. If Taylor can get it going he will help push the Bulldogs to the Quarterfinals. If Aztec forward Jalen McDaniels can turn it on, like he has at times, San Diego State could move on to the next round.
Prediction: Fresno State 79 – San Diego State 78
(2) Boise State vs. (7) Utah State
Utah State may have gotten a team without direction in the first round, but their quarterfinals matchup will be against one of the more polished teams out West. Chandler Hutchison is a star for the Broncos and has the talent to control this game from tip to buzzer. Barring an injury or other unforeseen setback, don’t expect Boise State to lose this rubber match against the Aggies.
Prediction: Boise State 75 – Utah State 70
(3) New Mexico vs. (6) Wyoming
New Mexico, like San Diego State, is one of the hottest squads in the Mountain West. Wyoming would be a trendy upset pick if this game were on their home floor, but being at a neutral site I don’t see the Cowboys beating the Lobo’s. However, if James and Dalton can take control of the game, Wyoming could just walk away with a victory.
Prediction: New Mexico 89 – Wyoming 84