The Kent State Golden Flashes have a slightly better record than the Central Michigan Chippewas. CMU beat Kent the only time the two teams faced each other this season. That tells me this could be one heck of a game.

Game Details

When: 2:30 P.M. Thursday, March 14th, 2019

Where: Quicken Loans Arena, Cleveland, Ohio

Watch and Stream: ESPN+

Line: Kent -1 according to ESPN.com

Players to Watch

Larry Austin Jr., Sr, Guard, CMU: The 6’2 senior from Springfield, Illinois, is a dynamo that really makes the Chippewas go. However, he is streaky, even in 5 minute bursts, where you can watch one of the best players in the league go to one of the worst in a hurry, and vice versa.

David DiLeo, Jr, Forward, CMU: A perfect compliment to the hard driving Austin, DiLeo is a big man that can knock down threes.

Jaylin Walker, Sr, Guard, Kent: Well, this is a big fat maybe. Walker was suspended for the final regular season game. He may, or may not, play. Prior to that, he scored over 20 in each of his last three games, including 29 at Miami his last outing.

Antonio Williams, Jr., Guard, Kent: Williams picked up 18 in the game that Walker missed, but missed a few shots. Against CMU, he might try to score a little too much, especially if Walker is still out.

Prediction

If Walker is playing, then I like Kent’s chances. They seem to be a little steadier team. However, if Walker is not playing, then that can be a huge game changer between these two evenly matched teams. With, or without, Walker, I am expecting a close contest that comes down to the wire. Kent or CMU, 78, CMU or Kent, 76.