Eastern Washington Seeks Redemption at Big Sky Tourney

Eastern Washington finds itself in a familiar position entering the Big Sky Tournament as the No. 1 seed, but they’re determined to avoid a repeat of last season’s disappointing first-round exit.

“We’re embracing it,” EWU’s head coach David Riley said. “We talked about how that adversity from last year, as long as we use it right, can prepare us and help us.”

The Eagles (21-10, 15-3 Big Sky) will face either No. 9 Idaho (11-20) or No. 10 Sacramento State (8-23) in their tournament opener on Sunday at 4:30 p.m. at Idaho Central Arena in Boise. While Eastern swept both teams in the regular season, Riley recognizes the potential challenges they pose.

“Everyone’s really good,” Riley cautioned. “There’s not that big of a disparity.”

Last year’s 81-80 loss to Northern Arizona in the opening round and a narrow 91-88 victory over last-place Sacramento State on Monday serve as reminders that no opponent can be taken lightly.

Should the Eagles survive their opening test, they would face either No. 4 Weber State or No. 5 Montana State in the semifinals on Tuesday evening. Here’s a closer look at the top half of the bracket:

Eastern Washington boasts a balanced and healthy lineup, with the ability to go four deep on their bench when needed. The return of Mason Williams has provided much-needed perimeter depth. No team in the Big Sky attempts more free throws (654) or shoots better overall (50.4%) than the Eagles. However, turnovers (13.1 per game) and recent struggles defending the 3-point line (35.9%, worst in the conference) have been weaknesses.

Weber State (20-11, 11-7) is always a threat with league MVP Dillon Jones (20.8 ppg, 10.1 rpg, 5.2 apg) leading the way. The Wildcats commit the fewest turnovers (9.7 per game) in the conference, allow the fewest points (66.8), and rank second in free-throw shooting (74.8%).

Montana State (14-17, 9-9) recently defeated both Weber State and Eastern Washington, showcasing their potential to make a deep run. The Bobcats have attempted the most 3-pointers (276) in the Big Sky at a 36.5% clip, but rebounding (minus-5 per game) has been an issue.

Idaho (11-20, 5-13) and Sacramento State (8-23, 4-14) face long odds as the bottom seeds, but both teams have shown flashes of potential. Four wins in four days would be a tall task, but not an impossible one in the unpredictable world of conference tournament play.

For Eastern Washington, the path to redemption begins on Sunday. With last year’s disappointment fueling their motivation, the Eagles are embracing the pressure and aiming to secure the Big Sky’s automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament.