The Southland tournament has some potential intriguing matchups that I am looking forward to seeing if we get them. However, I really do think this is a two team race. Now don’t get me wrong, I can see two other teams potentially going on a run. However, it is more unlikely than not to be honest. Let’s take a look at the 2023 Southland basketball conference tournament.
Betting Odds
Texas A&M Corpus Christi +125
Northwestern State +175
Nicholls State +600
Southern Louisiana +650
McNeese State +3100
Texas A&M Commerce +5000
New Orleans +75000
Houston Christian +9500
The Bracket
Does Texas A&M CC Go Back To The Tournament
The Islanders have been a great team so far in the 2022-2023 season. Texas A&M CC averages 80.6 points per game which is the most in the Southland and they also rank 22nd in the country. The Islanders have three guys that average 13+ points per game on the season. Senior guard Trevian Tennyson led the way with 15.8 points per game to go on a 44/41/90 shooting split. As much as Tennyson is a focal point of this offense, we need to give the respect to senior forward Isaac Mushila (14.9 points per game, 9.8 rebounds) and senior guard Terrion Murdix (13.7 points per game, 4.5 rebounds per game and 5.6 assists per game). These three are why the Islanders are where they are right now. If they want to win the Southland tournament, these three need to bring their best.
Can Northwestern State Get Over The Hump?
The Demons are working on going into Demon Time when it comes to winning this tournament. Northwestern State averages 74.8 points per game on the season and they have a win over TCU under their belts as well. The Demons are led by the back court duo of senior Demarcus Sharp and senior guard JaMonta’ Black. Black averaged 15.5 points per game on a 38/37/87 shooting split. Sharp averaged 18.7 points per game on a 46/56/81 shooting split. These two are the focal points and if they don’t play well, this team doesn’t play well. If the Demons want to get over the hump this year, these two are going to have to lead the way.
The Don’s Winner
I’ve gone back and forth all week long between the Islanders and the Demons. Now, I have finally made my decision. My bet and the winner that I am taking is Northwestern State +175. Texas A&M CC has had their number this season, but it will be the Demons who have the last laugh when it is all said and done.
The Don’s Game By Game Predictions
First Round
5 Texas A&M Commerce over 8 McNeese State
7 New Orleans over 6 Houston Christian
Quarterfinals
4 Nicholls over 5 Texas A&M Commerece
3 SE Louisiana over 7 New Orleans
Semi Finals
1 Texas A&M CC over 4 Nicholls
2 Northwestern State over 3 SE Louisiana
Finals
2 Northwestern State over 1 Texas A&M CC