Western Carolina Catamounts vs East Tennessee State Buccaneers Prediction, Odds and Picks for Today, 03/08/26

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Western Carolina enters the semifinals after securing a win over Mercer yesterday. The Catamounts dominated the glass in that matchup, outrebounding Mercer 53-29 — including 25 offensive rebounds — which led to plenty of second-chance opportunities for the Catamounts. East Tennessee State also advanced with a win over The Citadel, shooting an impressive 56.4% from the floor. However, their defense struggled, allowing the Bulldogs to shoot 50%, and they’ll need to tighten that up if they want to beat a tough Western Carolina team today. 

These teams have already met twice this season, with Western Carolina winning both matchups — the first by 4 points and the second by 2. In both games, the Catamounts controlled the boards and outshot East Tennessee State. Western Carolina may have had an up-and-down regular season, but they are entering the Southern Conference Tournament playing some of their best basketball, riding a 7-game winning streak. During that stretch, they are averaging 83 points per game while allowing just 68.3. East Tennessee State, on the other hand, has dropped 3 of its last 6 games and has yet to solve Western Carolina this season. These teams have played tight games throughout the year, but if the Catamounts continue to dominate the glass and capitalize on second-chance opportunities, they should be able to keep this game close. 

Western Carolina vs East Tennessee State prediction: Western Carolina Catamounts +3 (-115) available at time of publishing. Playable at that number.

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