Big Sky Basketball Tournament: Montana, Northern Colorado favored
Semifinals
No. 1 Montana vs. No. 5 Portland State
Portland State swept the season series from the No. 1 Grizzlies, winning by three on the road and 12 at home. Akoh played in the first meeting for Montana and not in the second, and if he is not available for the Big Sky Tournament here is where it could affect the Grizzlies. Woods is a hidden gem in the conference for Portland State and his ability to put his team on his back will lead to the Vikings pulling off the upset and moving into the finals. Prediction: Portland State
No. 2 Northern Colorado vs. No. 3 Eastern Washington
These two split the season series with each team winning by double digits on their home floor, with the Eastern Washington win coming in overtime. In the loss, Northern Colorado turned the ball over 16 times but had six guys in double figures, and with the defensive focus going to Davis, that depth may be the difference in leading to Jeff Linder’s team making the final. Prediction: Northern Colorado
Next. Projected Field of 68. dark
Finals
No. 5 Portland State vs. No. 2 Northern Colorado
The Bears won the season series easily and they were able to shut down Portland State’s star Holland Woods, holding him to just 21 points in two games. The complementary pieces on offense with the likes of Bodie Hume and Jonah Radebaugh, along with having the best player in the conference will lead Northern Colorado to their second NCAA Tournament in school history.Prediction: Northern Colorado