Big East Basketball: 2022 Conference Tournament preview and predictions

Quarterfinals Predictions

No. 8 Xavier vs No. 1 Providence – 3/10, 12 p.m. on FS1

Knowing that if they win this game, the Musketeers will probably make the NCAA Tournament regardless of their placement in the Big East Tournament, they will be coming out with full force against the Friars. Both matchups this year have been narrow Providence victories, and I think that trend will continue in New York City.

Prediction: Providence 72, Xavier 70

No. 5 Marquette vs No. 4 Creighton – 3/10, 2:30 p.m. on FS1

Two of the most surprising teams this year in the conference, Marquette and Creighton are both going to make the NCAA Tournament regardless of the outcome of this game. The Blue Jays swept the season series this year in a pair of close games, but I think the loss of Ryan Nembhard combined with the defensive presence of Darryl Morsell leads to a Golden Eagles victory

Prediction: Marquette 82, Creighton 75

No. 10 DePaul vs No. 2 Villanova – 3/10, 7 p.m. on FS1

After upsetting St. John’s in the first round, the Blue Demons will have a tall task at hand in the Wildcats, a team that is primed to make a deep run into March. Despite Tony Stubblefield’s group riding the momentum of the win the day prior, they just don’t have what it takes to beat mighty Villanova, but it will be closer than most would think.

Prediction: Villanova 69, DePaul 58

No. 6 Seton Hall vs No. 3 UConn – 3/10, 9:30 p.m. on FS1

Having not lost since falling at Gampel Pavilion in mid-February, the Pirates are surging into this quarterfinal matchup against the Huskies. Both matchups between these two teams were close, with each team winning the home game. With Bryce Aiken out of the picture, I believe that UConn will come out victorious.

Prediction: UConn 59, Seton Hall 53