- Both teams enter with identical 17-3 conference records
- Montana seeks third victory over Northern Colorado this season
- Championship winner earns automatic NCAA Tournament bid
- Game features top-2 scoring offenses in Big Sky Conference
The 2024 Big Sky Championship reaches its dramatic conclusion as the Northern Colorado Bears and Montana Grizzlies prepare for an epic rematch. These conference rivals bring identical 17-3 league records into Wednesday night's title game at Idaho Central Arena, setting the stage for a battle of contrasting styles. The Bears' high-octane offense (80.8 PPG) faces Montana's staunch defense that allows just 72.6 points per contest.
Montana holds psychological advantage after winning both regular-season matchups, including a crucial 86-78 victory on February 7. However, Northern Colorado has shown remarkable resilience in close games, boasting a 3-2 record in contests decided by three points or fewer. The neutral court setting in Boise adds intriguing complexity, as both teams must adapt to unfamiliar shooting backgrounds and fan distributions.
Three critical factors could decide this championship:
- Three-point efficiency: Montana averages 7.3 made threes vs UNC's 6.7 allowed
- Rebounding battle: Grizzlies rank 7th in defensive rebounds (22.7/G)
- Bench production: Bears' depth outscored opponents' reserves by 11.2 PPG
Regional Impact Analysis: Hosting the championship in Boise continues Idaho's growing reputation as a neutral-site sports hub. Last year's tournament generated $2.3M in local revenue, with hotels reporting 92% occupancy. This economic boost reinforces the Big Sky Conference's strategy to rotate championships through secondary markets, increasing visibility for member schools.
Player Spotlight: Montana's Money Williams (15.9 PPG last 10 games) faces pressure to replicate his 19-point performance from February's matchup. Northern Colorado counters with dynamic duo Isaiah Hawthorne (17.5 PPG, 40% 3PT) and Jaron Rillie, who's elevated his game to 14.8 PPG and 6.4 rebounds in recent contests.
Historical Context: The last five Big Sky champions have advanced to NCAA Tournament victories, including Montana's 2018 first-round upset of Nevada. This precedent adds urgency for both programs seeking to enhance their conference legacy. Northern Colorado aims for its first title since 2021, while Montana looks to claim its eighth championship in program history.
Weathering the Storm: Both teams enter on hot streaks - Montana has won 9 of 10, while Northern Colorado boasts an 8-2 recent record. The Grizzlies' defense has been particularly stifling down the stretch, holding opponents to 41.2% field goal shooting during their run. Conversely, the Bears' offense maintains nation-leading 50.1% team FG percentage since February 1.
X-Factor Prediction: Turnover margin looms large. Montana averages 6.2 steals per game compared to Northern Colorado's 5.9. The team that converts more takeaways into fastbreak points (Bears average 12.3 transition PPG vs Grizzlies' 10.8) could gain decisive advantage.