WAC Basketball: 2021 Conference Tournament preview and predictions
Predictions
March 11, – Quarterfinals
No. 4 California Baptist vs. No. 5 Seattle, 7: 30 p.m. (ET), ESPN+
This is a toss-up game as the teams just played last weekend in Riverside with each team winning a close affair. The key to the first two was who won the first half. I’m going with the Redhawks to advance to the semifinals, 78-74 as they have been slightly better than Lancers on the defensive end and dominated the offensive boards against them.
No 3. New Mexico State vs. No. 6 UTRGV, 11:00 p.m. (ET) ESPN+,
New Mexico State enters the game on a three-game winning streak while Rio Grande Valley is on a five-game losing streak. NM State has been excellent on the defensive end of late and UTRGV has struggled to score. Plus, the Aggies coasted to victory on a neutral court the last time out versus the Vaqueros. NM State wins 69- 57.
March 12 – Semifinals
No. 1 Grand Canyon vs. No. 5 Seattle, 8 p.m. (ET), ESPN +
The teams didn’t meet this year. I believe that Drew will devise a plan to contain Trammell and Grigsby. GCU earns a place in the finals with a 68-64 win.
No. 2 Utah Valley vs. No. 3 New Mexico State, 11 p.m. ESPN +
The teams split their two meetings, both of which were close affairs — neither squad held a double-digit lead at any point. I’m going with the Aggies to come out on top 66-63 due to their experience.
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March 13 – Finals
No. 1 Grand Canyon vs. No. 3 New Mexico State, 10 p.m. (ET), ESPNU
GCU wins its first WAC championship, 68-56, as Midtgaard dominates the paint once again against the Aggies. The Antelopes won the first two meetings this year pretty handily.