Big South Basketball: 2021 Conference Tournament preview, predictions
Semifinals
No. 1 Winthrop Eagles vs No. 5 Longwood Lancers
It wasn’t a fun two matchups at Winthrop for the Lancers, losing both by a combined 31 points. They have three double-digit scoring guards but a lack of size and consistent defense makes them a clear-cut underdog against the Eagles.
Prediction: Winthrop 68, Longwood 54
No. 6 Gardner-Webb Bulldogs vs No. 10 Presbyterian Blue Hose
The Bulldogs won both matchups at home in the regular season, although they were very different types of results. The first was a six-point victory that was close throughout, with the second being a 27-point blowout, led by 19 points each from D’maurian Williams and Jaheam Cornwall. While I doubt this semifinal game will end up like the ladder, I think Gardner-Webb will be fine in this one.
Prediction: Garnder-Webb 73, Presbyterian 62
Finals
No. 1 Winthrop Eagles vs No. 6 Gardner-Webb Bulldogs
The Eagles had the regular-season sweep by a combined 18 points, although the second matchup was much more closer. After losing by six points at the half, Winthrop scored 51 in the second half to get the 91-83 victory. Gardner-Webb last made the NCAA Tournament in 2019 and after losing so much talent, has rebounded to have a solid enough season in the Big South.
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In the end, Winthrop will just be too much for the Bulldogs, as they have been for the rest of the Big South this year. Barring a shocking upset, look for them to represent the conference in the Big Dance.