Horizon Semifinals Preview

No. 4 Detroit vs. No. 1 UW-Milwaukee

After another week off, the Panthers will finally get their dose of the league tournament on Saturday. UWM received a bye all the way into the semis, just like they did last year. Rust may be a factor as UWM is playing just their third game since Feb. 21, while the Titans are playing their fourth in a week. The key in this match-up is who gets the fresh and hot start. In their meeting on Jan. 5, the Titans jumped out to a 13-0 lead, but UWM fought back to win it in Milwaukee. But since it is at a neutral site, the early part of the game will be a factor. UWM won both meetings during the regular season, but given what happened with Butler and Green Bay, beating a team for a third time is not easy. But all in all, UWM is far too deep and too talented for Detroit.

Prediction – UWM 75, Detroit 66

No. 5 Butler vs. No. 2 Illinois-Chicago

After winning 10 straight meeting between these two, the Bulldogs have now dropped two straight this season to UIC. But, it is hard to beat any team three times in the same season. The same will apply here, especially against the red hot Flames. UIC is well rested and experienced. Their experience is going to be a factor without question. In addition, the Bulldogs do not have the offensive firepower that UIC does. So, if Butler is going to have any chance, they will have to rely on two things: one, defense and two, the home crowd. If the home faithful are quiet, UIC will take control. UIC wants to win this game because they are inkling for a UWM/UIC championship game at the U.S. Cellular Arena on Tuesday night. Butler wants to win to get their rematch with UWM from last year’s championship game. But, in the end, UIC is just too talented and too experienced and too rested.

Prediction – UIC 79, Butler 70