Big Sky Basketball Tournament: Montana, Northern Colorado favored

Quarterfinals

No. 1 Montana vs. No. 9 Sacramento State

The top-seeded Grizzlies swept the season series easily, winning by an average of 28 points. With leading scorer Jamar Akoh’s availability in doubt due to a knee injury, that may hamper Montana, but it won’t happen here as the Grizzlies have plenty of depth to make up for the loss of Akoh. Prediction: Montana

No. 4 Weber State vs. No. 5 Portland State

They split the season series, but this is a case of two teams going in opposite directions. Weber State was once considered to be a contender in the conference, but the Wildcats finished just 4-8 over their last 12, while the Vikings of Portland State finished their season by winning eight of their last 10. Sophomore Holland Woods leads the team with 14 points and over five assists per game, Woods will lead the Vikings into the semifinals. Prediction: Portland State

No. 2 Northern Colorado vs. No. 7 Southern Utah

Northern Colorado missed out on a share of the Big Sky title by falling to Northern Arizona in their regular-season finale. The Bears swept the season series of Southern Utah, winning both games by double-digits, and with the likely Player of the Year, guard Jordan Davis who scored 66 points in two games against Southern Utah. The Bears should have little trouble moving on to the semifinals. Prediction: Northern Colorado

No. 3 Eastern Washington vs. No. 6 Montana State

The Eagles and Bobcats split the season series, with each team winning on their home floor. But it was very close to a season sweep by Eastern Washington, Montana State needed a 10-2 run late in the second game to earn a split. Sophomore guard Jacob Davison scored over 23 points per game against Montana State and I think he leads the Eagles into the semifinals. Prediction: Eastern Washington