The SoCon has been one of the most intriguing conferences in terms of Small Mid-Majors receiving at large bids for the tournament. Last year there was the debate on UNC Greensboro and Furman. This year I think there is a solid argument for ETSU if they don’t win the 2020 Southern Conference tournament.

2020 Southern Conference Tournament Bracket

Favorites to Win: East Tennessee State

The Buccaneers have been an awesome story to watch develop this season. Though they were the favorites in the preseason media and coaches polls, finishing 27-4 was something that I don’t think coach Steve Forbes would have guessed. I’m sure that he was more than happy to take the record with open arms.

This is their first conference title since 2017, with what they hope to be their first NCAA tourney appearance since. It has been a group effort, they have eight players averaging more than 15 minutes a game. Along with that, they have three players averaging more than 10 points a game, with seven players averaging more than seven points a game.

Teams to Watch: Furman & UNCG

It would be a crime to only talk about one of these two teams. Both have done a great job of retaining and carrying on from the success that they had from last year.

For Furman the path to success has been very similar to that of ETSU. The Paladins have four players that are averaging at least 10 points a game, with two others contributing at least seven points or more. With an eight point loss at Alabama, and a three point overtime loss at Auburn. You gotta think that these guys can hoop.

As for the Spartans from Greensboro, they have put themselves in a peculiar position. Their non conference was REALLY good, with wins at Radford, at Vermont, against Northern Kentucky. A couple of unfortunate losses to NC State (3), and played Kansas tight (12). Though they didn’t beat ETSU this season, they are in contention to compete in the Southern Conference tournament. 

Player to Watch: Isaiah Miller, UNCG

The junior guard has been trying to will this team to first place all year. His 17.8 PPG had led the team. In addition, Miller was just awarded this week by winning SoCon Player of the Year. He is an electric player that can take over a game. You will want to tune in to watch Miller

Tournament Teams: 1 (Maybe 2)

If East Tennessee State can win, they will likely be the only bid for the league. However, if Furman or UNC Greensboro can pull off the upset, there is a chance that ETSU could still be put in the Big Dance. The Pirates are well-established enough as a top team that a loss in the SoCon Tournament may drop them a seed line or two, but that they may still make the tournament. We may have to see on selection Sunday if they cannot get it done.

You can view the rest of our conference tournament previews here.