The Big Sky Tournament is the pinnacle of the collegiate basketball season, and the 2021 installment of the event is set to be bigger and better than ever. Held annually in March, this tournament sees the top teams from the Big Sky Conference go head-to-head in pursuit of the title. This year's tournament will take place from March 11th-16th, and the action promises to be intense. Read on for an overview of the Big Sky Tournament 2021.
Big Sky Conference
The Big Sky Conference (BSC) is an NCAA Division I athletic conference that was founded in 1963 and currently includes 12 teams. It is headquartered in Ogden, Utah and includes teams from Montana, Idaho, Oregon, Washington, and Utah. The conference prides itself on being one of the most competitive in the nation, boasting seven men's national championships and nine women's championships.
Big Sky Tournament Teams
The top eight teams in the Big Sky Conference standings qualify for the Big Sky Tournament. Teams are seeded based on their regular season performance, with the top two seeds receiving a bye in the first round. The current teams in the tournament are the University of Montana Grizzlies, Montana State University Bobcats, Idaho Vandals, Weber State University Wildcats, Eastern Washington University Eagles, Northern Arizona University Lumberjacks, Portland State University Vikings, and the University of Idaho Vandals.
Big Sky Tournament Format
The Big Sky Tournament is a single-elimination tournament that follows a two-round format. The first round begins on March 11th, with the top two seeds receiving byes. The quarterfinal round takes place on March 12th, and the semifinal round on March 13th. The championship game is held on the evening of March 16th. Each team is guaranteed at least one game in the tournament, with the winner receiving an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament.
Big Sky Tournament Venues
The Big Sky Tournament is held at various venues throughout the conference. This year's tournament will be held at the Reno Events Center in Reno, Nevada. This 8,000-seat arena has hosted the tournament since 2019 and provides a great atmosphere for the teams and fans alike. The venue has hosted numerous concerts and events in addition to the Big Sky Tournament.
Big Sky Tournament Tickets
Tickets for the Big Sky Tournament go on sale in late February each year. Prices vary depending on the day and game, with the championship game being the most expensive. Tickets can be purchased online or at the box office of the Reno Events Center. Fans are encouraged to purchase their tickets early as the tournament often sells out.
Big Sky Tournament TV Coverage
The Big Sky Tournament is televised nationally on ESPN and locally on the Big Sky Network. The championship game is also broadcast on CBS Sports. Fans can also catch the action online, with ESPN+ and the Big Sky Network both streaming the tournament live.
Big Sky Tournament Predictions
It's always difficult to predict the outcome of the Big Sky Tournament, as any team can emerge victorious. However, the Montana Grizzlies have been the dominant force in the conference in recent years and are the favorites to win the tournament this year. The Montana State Bobcats and Idaho Vandals are also expected to make deep runs in the tournament.
Big Sky Tournament FAQs
If you have any questions about the Big Sky Tournament, here are some of the most frequently asked questions:
- When is the Big Sky Tournament? The Big Sky Tournament takes place from March 11th-16th.
- Where is the tournament held? The tournament is held at the Reno Events Center in Reno, Nevada.
- How do I get tickets? Tickets can be purchased online or at the box office of the Reno Events Center.
- What teams are competing? The University of Montana Grizzlies, Montana State University Bobcats, Idaho Vandals, Weber State University Wildcats, Eastern Washington University Eagles, Northern Arizona University Lumberjacks, Portland State University Vikings, and the University of Idaho Vandals.
- Who is the favorite to win? The Montana Grizzlies are the favorite to win the tournament.
Big Sky Tournament 2021: The Final Word
The 2021 Big Sky Tournament is sure to be an exciting event, with the top teams from the conference going head-to-head in pursuit of the championship. Fans can look forward to some great basketball action as the tournament progresses. Be sure to get your tickets early and don't miss out on the action!
