Pac-12 basketball: 2024 Conference Tournament preview and predictions

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Predictions for the Pac-12 Conference Tournament

First Round:

9) USC vs 8) Washington

The Huskies have one of the best offenses in college basketball, averaging nearly 81 points per game, but that didn’t stop USC from getting the win when these two teams played less than two weeks ago. The Trojans are 4-1 over the past five games, with the only loss being to Washington State. USC has finally started to improve on the defensive end, allowing less than 69 points per game in the last five games. USC is a confident team entering this tournament, and mixed with its talented roster I think the Trojans will avoid an opening-round exit.

Prediction: USC wins

12) Oregon State vs 5) UCLA

If you are expecting points to be scored, then this isn’t the matchup for you. Both of these teams struggle on the offense end of the court. UCLA averages 65.9 points per game, while Oregon State is coming in at 69.3 points per game. The Bruins have one of the best defenses in the country, holding opponents to under 66 points per game, and that might make all the difference in this game.

Prediction: UCLA wins

10) Stanford vs 7) California

Both Cal and Stanford are struggling on the defensive end of the court, allowing over 76 points per game. Cal has struggled down the stretch, losing its last three games, but the Golden Bears have one of the best scorers in the conference in Jaylon Tyson. And Stanford hasn’t won a game away from its home court since early February. Cal should get revenge for the loss to the Cardinal, a game that was played less than a week ago.

Prediction: California wins

11) Arizona State vs 6) Utah

Utah should win this one pretty easily. The Utes have one of the better offenses in the country, scoring 78.3 points per game. Arizona State, on the other hand, has struggled to score the ball all season, averaging 69.4 points per game. Neither team has stopped the ball well this year, so being able to score the ball will be crucial in this matchup.

Prediction: Utah wins

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