The unfortunate fact of the matter is that for conferences like the Horizon League -- in its present state and with its current tournament format -- things such as league finish, RPI and strength of schedule simply don't matter.
All that counts is whether or not a team can win four straight games in March. The rest of it is mere window dressing.
All that counts is whether or not a team can win four straight games at a "neutral site" that it can't practice in before anemic attendance in March. The rest of it is mere window dressing.
A panther is like a leopard. Except it hasn't been peppered.
Should you behold a panther crouch, prepare to say "ouch."
Better yet, if called by a panther...don't anther (Ogden Nash "The Panther")