Big Sky Basketball: 2021 conference tournament preview, predictions

Semifinals

#1 Southern Utah versus #5 Montana State

An interesting matchup with a lower seed making it to the semi-finals. However, Southern Utah is part of that trio of highly competitive Big Sky basketball teams. Montana State, most definitely, is not one of those teams. Southern Utah has too much talent for Montana State to allow them a chance to win this game.

Prediction: Southern Utah 87, Montana State 75

#2 Eastern Washington versus #3 Weber State

Two of the best teams in the Big Sky Conference will meet for the first time in the semifinals. The opponents match up well with one another. On the year, the Eagles have scored 79.3 points per game which is slightly less than Weber State’s 82.1 points per game. On the defensive end, Weber State has the slight edge by only giving up 68.8 points per game while Eastern Washington has allowed 71.6 points per game.

Prediction: Eastern Washington 85, Weber State 83

Championship

#1 Southern Utah versus #2 Eastern Washington

Southern Utah has been at the top of the conference most of the year. They have the best combination of offense and defense although Weber State is close behind, statistically. This game will come down to the final shot with Southern Utah earning the automatic qualifying bid for the NCAA Tournament.

Prediction: Southern Utah 91, Eastern Washington 89