T.M. Selection: Wake Forest.

I think the 27-6 Appalachian State Mountaineers won't be able hang down the stretch with the 20-13 Wake Forest Demon Deacons in the first round of the NIT. App Stae lost 67-65 to Arkansas State in the Sun Belt Championship, led by 15 points from Terence Harcum. Wake lost 81-69 to Pitt in the ACC Tournament quarterfinal, led by 23 points from Cameron Hildreth. Wake Forest is the more motivated team here in my estimation. It averages 78.2 PPG and the home floor advantage will be huge down the stretch. Look for App State to stumble in the second half and for the home side to extend with a big win and cover.

T.M. Prediction: 80-65 Wake.