Townsquare Media's Michael Weindruch returns as a guest blogger for an update on all the college hoops action in the Quad Cities this week. Michael is one of the biggest sports fans here at Townsquare Media Quad Cities. 

Basketballs will be bouncing all across the Quad Cities this weekend as two – yes- two tournaments invade the area. And I love it!

The Missouri Valley Conference women’s tournament takes to the court of the TaxSlayer Center for the third consecutive year. This year’s winner will again be gaining automatic entry into the NCAA Division I National Tournament.

Games begin on Thursday the 8th and run single –elimination through the finals, Sunday at 2PM. Schools competing include Bradley, Drake, Evansville, Illinois State, Northern Iowa, Loyola Chicago and Valparaiso among the 10 colleges.

Tickets for the “Hoops in the Heartland” are available at the TaxSlayer Center box office or any Ticketmaster location. Click here for more info.

Meanwhile … just a few miles away, the Augustana Vikings have their dream to return to Salem, VA going strong. With two dramatic victories last Friday and Saturday night, Augie continues on the journey to the Final Four.

But the job doesn’t get any easier. Augustana’s Carver Center is hosting a sectional round Friday and Saturday featuring four top-twenty rated teams in Division III. Emory and Wisconsin-Oshkosh open action Friday evening at 5:30PM. Approximately 30 minutes after that game concludes, the Vikings will face another high scoring threat in John Carroll.

They say you have to beat the best to be the best. This just may be the strongest sectional field of the “Sweet 16” teams still remaining. If you like tough defense and one of the best coaches at any level, make your plans today.

And if you are planning on attending the Carver Center … get there early!

Doors open and tickets may be purchased Friday at 4PM and Saturday beginning at 5:30PM.

For more info click here.

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