2020 Mountain West Tournament Bracket
Favorite to Win: San Diego State (-175)
Malachi Flynn and Co. have been one of the most shocking revelations of the college basketball season. In 2020’s wide-open tournament field, the San Diego State Aztecs have been able to rise up the boards to being a top five team in the country. SDSU was undefeated until falling to UNLV and are currently 28-1. The #4 team in Kenpom has a legit shot at a number one seed and is notably the most talented team in this 2020 Mountain West Tournament bracket.
Team to Watch: Utah State
Coming off of an NCAA tournament appearance in 2019, Craig Smith is looking to get back there in his second season with the team. Utah State punched their ticket last year by beating San Diego State in the finals of the conference tournament. This year they aren’t quite as strong in terms of record, but should still threaten for the tournament title and will be on the bubble for a potential March Madness berth.
Player to Watch: Jalen Harris, Nevada
Jalen Harris, a transfer from Louisiana Tech, took the league by storm in his first season. Harris received two votes for Mountain West Player of the Year and two for MWC Newcomer of the Year. Harris averaged 21.8 PPG, 6.4 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game this season. Nevada might not be the best team in the tournament, but you’ll want to watch Harris.
Current Tournament Teams: Two
Right now, San Diego State is possibly a number one seed and if they are to win the 2020 Mountain West Tournament, they most certainly will be. Utah State is currently projected as a 12-seed over at BracketMatrix and should be in the field as well. There aren’t currently any other teams in the Mountain West on the bubble, so the only hope for a three bid Mountain West would be an improbable run from one of the lower seeds. If anyone were to do it, keep an eye on Nevada or New Mexico.
Prediction
It’s hard to go against the Aztecs, which is why I won’t. San Diego State has been the best team in the league all year. There is no reason for me to believe that San Diego State won’t be able to capture the 2020 Mountain West Tournament title. If this happens, the Aztecs should lock up a one-seed in the Big Dance with a week off to prepare. I’m not sure how deep into March they may make it, but San Diego State should be able to get it done in Las Vegas this week.
You can view the rest of our conference tournament previews here.
