Pulling the hat-trick vs. a comparable foe is tricky and Jacksonville might get a bit stretched tonight in the A-Sun quarterfinals vs. EKU. The Dolphins squeezed out a 59-55 win over the Colonels on February 24, a game that traded in a narrow range, with no lead larger than five points. Had EKU done a bit better with its 3s (8 for 32) the result could have been different. January 11 was another tight one at Richmond when Jacksonville extended the margin very late in an 82-75 win. EKU bounced back from last Monday's the close loss to the Dolphins by prevailing at nearby UNF, making it nine wins in eleven, with sr. G Devontae Blanton (24 points) continuing recent hot form. Play EKU.

The last time these two met, Eastern Kentucky failed to cover due to a turnover on their last possession of the game. The Colonels struggle from the free throw line in that game, shooting 45.5% and only 25% from beyond the arc. Yes, this is technically a home game for Jacksonville, but the line is even shorter than two games ago. The Colonels will need to protect the ball better and shoot their free throw more efficiently as they shoot 76.5% on the road for the season which may come into play with such a short line.

Today, the Atlantic Sun conference tournament continues for a second day of action. Time and time again postseason play harkens the phrase a team will have a hard time defeating the same opponent a third time. Typically in college basketball that task would be reserved for a neutral court setting. Not in the Atlantic Sun as Jacksonville hosts an Eastern Kentucky team they defeated in both matchups. Expect the atmosphere on their home court to put a bit of pressure on the home team. Take the underdog here in Eastern Kentucky.