In my eyes, this game is all about motivation. Massachusetts wants no part of this game or this tournament, as they feel they were good enough for the big dance. Their resume just wasn't good enough, and now they are left with the NIT. Meanwhile, Stephen F. Austin is thrilled to be playing in this game. They have a real chance here tonight with the lack of motivation by UMASS, Austin could shock the motivation-less Minutemen.

The Austin Lumberjacks are not happy about losing in the Southland Tournament to Northwestern St., but this is the first appearance in a national tournament in over 20 years so it is special. This is the best season since joining Division I 21 years ago and their record ended up being the 10th best in the country. Sure they came from a weak conference but they went to San Diego and Oklahoma and came away with outright victories. That experience will no doubt give them the confidence necessary to keep this one close.

Overall in this game, I look for Austin to come out early and put Mass in a headlock...then they may wake up and realize they are about to get humiliated and pull out a late victory...otherwise, they will be shocked tonight by Stephen F. Austin. I'm taking the 8 points bookies are giving us here, and going with Stephen F. Austin at +8 tonight.

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Pick : Stephen F. Austin +9
Odds : 1.99
Stake : 7 / 10
Bookmaker : Bookmaker
Match Result : 80-60
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