Big Ten Tournament
After a thrilling regular season, the Big Ten Tournament is set to begin this week. The tournament will feature the top teams in the conference, battling it out for the conference championship and an automatic berth in the NCAA Tournament.
Here's a look at what to expect from this year's tournament:
Favorites to Win
The top contenders for the tournament title are Purdue, Michigan, and Illinois. All three teams have had impressive regular seasons, and they will be looking to carry that momentum into the tournament.
Purdue is the No. 1 seed in the tournament, and they are the clear favorite to win it all. The Boilermakers have been ranked among the top teams in the country all season long, and they have a deep and talented roster.
Michigan is the No. 2 seed in the tournament, and they are another team that has had a strong regular season. The Wolverines have a lot of experience in the NCAA Tournament, and they will be looking to make a deep run this year.
Illinois is the No. 3 seed in the tournament, and they are a team that has been on the rise all season long. The Illini have a lot of young talent, and they are playing with a lot of confidence.
Dark Horse Contenders
In addition to the top three teams, there are a few other teams that could make a run in the Big Ten Tournament. Ohio State, Wisconsin, and Iowa are all teams that have the potential to upset the favorites.
Ohio State is the No. 4 seed in the tournament, and they are a team that has been playing well lately. The Buckeyes have a lot of size and athleticism, and they can be tough to beat when they are playing their best.
Wisconsin is the No. 5 seed in the tournament, and they are a team that has a lot of experience in the NCAA Tournament. The Badgers are always well-coached, and they will be a tough out for any team.
Iowa is the No. 6 seed in the tournament, and they are a team that has been playing with a lot of confidence lately. The Hawkeyes have a lot of offensive firepower, and they will be looking to make a statement in the tournament.
Schedule
The Big Ten Tournament will begin on Wednesday, March 8th, and it will conclude on Sunday, March 12th. The tournament will be held at the United Center in Chicago.
The first round of the tournament will feature eight games, with the winners advancing to the quarterfinals. The quarterfinals will be played on Thursday, March 9th, and the semifinals will be played on Friday, March 10th. The championship game will be played on Sunday, March 12th.
Tickets
Tickets for the Big Ten Tournament are on sale now. Fans can purchase tickets online or at the United Center box office.
Coverage
The Big Ten Tournament will be televised on ESPN and CBS. Fans can also stream the games online at ESPN+ and CBS Sports Network.
Predictions
Here are my predictions for the Big Ten Tournament:
* Purdue to win the tournament
* Michigan to reach the championship game
* Illinois to make the semifinals
* Ohio State to make the quarterfinals
* Wisconsin to make the quarterfinals
* Iowa to make the quarterfinals