As the college basketball season enters its final stretch, the margin for error grows thinner for teams teetering on the bubble. For McNeese State, a loss to a sub-.500 opponent like Southeastern Louisiana would be a devastating blow to their tournament aspirations. The Cowboys, currently ranked 58th in the NET rankings, are on the precipice of securing an at-large bid, but a misstep against the Lions could send them tumbling down the pecking order. With a quad record of 0-2 Q1, 3-0 Q2, 3-1 Q3, and 8-1 Q4, McNeese needs to keep racking up wins to bolster their resume.
Southeastern Louisiana, on the other hand, is desperate for quality wins to inject some life into their tournament hopes. The Lions' 277th NET ranking and dismal quad record (0-2 Q1, 0-3 Q2, 1-4 Q3, 4-5 Q4) make it an uphill battle, but a victory over McNeese would be a monumental upset that could revive their chances. The University Center will be electric as the Lions look to capitalize on their home-court advantage and play spoiler. According to the CHD Scout prediction, McNeese is favored to win by 10.9 points, with Southeastern Louisiana boasting a mere 16.3% chance of pulling off the upset.
CHD Scout Prediction
McNeese
76
SE Louisiana
65
The numbers suggest that McNeese's balanced attack, which has propelled them to a 16-4 record, will be too much for the Lions to handle. With no notable player momentum data to speak of, it's likely that the Cowboys' overall depth and talent will prove too great for Southeastern Louisiana to overcome. The Lions' recent form, which includes a win sandwiched between two losses, doesn't inspire confidence, either.
As the two teams take to the court, the stakes are clear: McNeese State needs to avoid a letdown, while Southeastern Louisiana is searching for a season-defining win. Given the CHD Scout prediction and the significant disparity in talent and recent form, I'm predicting a 76-65 McNeese State victory. The Cowboys' superior athleticism and tournament experience should ultimately prove too much for the Lions, allowing them to maintain their tenuous grip on the bubble.