AIKEN, S.C. (WFXG) - While USC-Aiken's men's basketball team was able to secure the Peach Belt Conference title, it will be the Pacers' PBC rival from just across the river to have home court advantage in the conference tournament, as each strives to punch a ticket to NCAA Division II March Madness.

The 2023 PBC men's basketball tournament tips off March 2 at Augusta's Christenberry Fieldhouse. The #1 seed Pacers face Georgia Southwestern State University at noon. At 5 p.m., #2 seed Augusta University takes on Flagler College. Lander, Young Harris, Columbus State, and North Georgia all make appearances in the tournament quarterfinals as well.

Semifinals are scheduled for March 3 with a champion to be crowned on March 5.

In 2022, USC-Aiken was defeated in the quarterfinal round, falling 91-74 against Columbus State. Augusta went on to win the tournament in its 82-71 victory over Flagler. Augusta currently holds 6 PBC tournament championships, tied for most in conference history.

The PBC tournament winner receives an automatic bid to the NCAA tournament. Augusta fell short in the national championship game in 2022 to an undefeated Northwest Missouri State, who took its fourth title in five seasons.

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