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2017-18 MAC Basketball Preview: Appalachian State vs. Western Michigan Broncos

The two teams face off on the second day of the Puerto Rico Tip-Off, in Myrtle Beach.

NCAA Basketball: Charleston Classic-Western Michigan vs Texas El-Paso Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports

The Western Michigan Broncos dropped their first game in the Puerto Rico Tip-Off to Tulsa. Up next is an Appalachian State Mountaineers squad that lost a close game to Iowa State, 104-98.


Game Details

  • When: Friday, November 17th, 5 p.m.
  • Watch: ESPNU
  • Stream: Via the WatchESPN app with subscription to ESPNU
  • Line: WMU -6

Scouting the Broncos

Western Michigan had a horrendous shooting night against Tulsa in their second loss of the season. They finally found their shooting touch at the end of the game to make the score more respectable.

Coach Hawkins likes to use a motion offense and work his big guys inside to create open jumpers. Point guard Thomas Wilder is a triple threat that can shoot, drive, or dish. He leads the team in scoring at 18.7 points and 6 assists per contest.


Scouting the Mountaineers

Appalachian State absolutely annihilated two pushovers before facing their real test against Iowa State on the first day of The Puerto Rico Tip-Off. The Mountaineers showed they can score on just about anyone, but couldn’t stop the Cyclones.


Players to Watch

Thomas Wilder, WMU: A heady, steady point guard, he sets the tone for the entire team.

Seth Dugan, WMU: The 7 foot junior is a nice pick and roll option.

Ronshad Shabazz, ASU: Averages 27 points on the year and had his best game against Iowa State.

Tyrell Johnson, ASU: The 6’8 junior is averaging 13 points and 6.7 rebounds.


Keys to the Contest

If the Broncos limit the turnovers and use their size advantage, they should be in control. Shabazz will get his points, and that’s fine as long as they don’t let someone else have a career night. Freshman guard Justin Forrest has shown some promise for the Mountaineers.


Prediction

WMU continues the hot shooting from the end of the Tulsa game and controls this game. They win 88-80.