Ivy League Basketball: 2018 Conference Tournament preview

LEXINGTON, KY - DECEMBER 02: Tommy Amaker, head coach of the Harvard Crimson, watches from the bench during the second half of the game between the Kentucky Wildcats and the Harvard Crimson at Rupp Arena on December 2, 2017 in Lexington, Kentucky. (Photo by Bobby Ellis/Getty Images) /

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SYRACUSE, NY – NOVEMBER 10: Jimmy Boeheim /

A look at the participating teams

Harvard Crimson 17-12 (12-2)

This team struggled out the gate, with the “sophomore slump” likely the reason why. But once the players got settled, they showed why talent-wise they’re the best in the Ivy. Harvard is once again the top defensive team, but the offense is one of the worst. There will be some low-scoring games involving the Crimson.

Penn Quakers 22-8 (12-2)

While Harvard was No. 1 in defensive scoring, Penn as No. 2. But the Quakers are the most balanced team, ranked No. 2 in offensive scoring as well. Four guys average double figures and should be considered the favorites to win this event.

Yale Bulldogs 16-14 (9-5)

The team is better than their overall record indicates, after a brutal non-conference schedule. They should be battle tested and have the experience to pull off an upset. But it would be better of course if Mason could play.

Cornell Big Red 12-15 (6-8)

The surprise of the group, Cornel has the best duo of the conference in Morgan and Gettings. But these are the only two guys on the team that scores more than 7.2 ppg, so if either has an off game it will doom the team. Also, being ranked 332nd in the nation in scoring defense also is a big concern. A shootout will be how they win.