The Patriot League Conference Tournament begins on Tuesday, March 5th. All games will be played at the higher seed’s home arena. The title game is Wednesday March 13th at 7 PM. Here are some teams to watch in this tournament:
#1 Colgate: Colgate is the clear favorite and my pick to win this tournament after going 16-2 in conference play. They play strong and tenacious defense while still remaining at the top of the conference in offensive efficiency. They have won this tournament 3 consecutive years and 4 of the last 5, and they certainly have the pedigree to do it again this season.
#6 Lehigh : Despite a 9-9 conference record and 12-17 overall record, Lehigh actually grades out as the #2 team in the conference per T-rank’s efficiency ratings. They play faster than any team in the conference and do a good job of securing defensive rebounds and limiting second chance points. Prior to losing to the top 2 seeds in the conference by a combined 5 points, Lehigh had won 5 straight. They have lost a lot of close games, but they have been playing their best basketball at the right time. I like Lehigh as a sleeper pick to shake off their one possession loss demons and make a run to the championship.
#2 Boston University : Boston U comes into this tournament winning 7 of their last 9, and 5 straight, a stretch that led them to the #2 seed in the Patriot League tournament. Boston has been playing much better offensively as of late, as their offensive efficiency ranks #1 in the conference in that 9 game stretch. This late season push has made Boston a serious contender to take down the Patriot League title.
#4 American: American is one of two Patriot league teams to beat Colgate, as they split the season series with them, winning the most recent matchup at Colgate. American has the most efficient offense in the conference over the full season, and they have already proven they can go into Colgate’s territory and beat them. If American is able to get by Bucknell, they will likely set up a very intriguing rubber match vs Colgate in the semi finals
My Bracket Prediction:
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