Weekend Sports Preview

As some nice weather finally descends upon us, the Montana spring sports season is off and running.

But before we officially switch gears, there are still a few basketball-related items to take care of.

Here's what I'm keeping my eye on as we head into the weekend.

The University of Montana women's basketball team battles UCLA in the first round of the NCAA Tournament tomorrow at 4:30. The Lady Griz, seeded 14th, could run into some problems with the 27-4 Lady Bruins. But it should be an interesting contest nonetheless, and if this year's bunch has taught us anything, it's that this group of gals respond best when their backs are against the wall.

Montana's top high school hoopsters will showcase their skills in Billings at the annual Crowne Plaza Classic and Treasure State Tournament. This prestigous event is for seniors only, and pits players from the Class AA, A, B and C ranks against one another in an all-star extravaganza. The Crowne Plaza Classic is for the boys, the Treasure State Tournament for the girls.

And technically, this doesn't start until Monday, but the University of Montana football team's spring drills are approaching as well. The Griz missed the playoffs for the first time in 17 years last season, and it will be interesting to gauge where the team is at.