SLU needs a stunning run through the Conference USA tournament to get an NCAA bid. The Billikens begin their quest at noon today in Memphis, against Southern Miss. SLU is seeded 9th, the Golden Eagles are 8th. Both teams were 7-9 in conference play, but Southern Miss drilled the Billikens in their only meeting, 71-48. A win or two in the conference tournament would help SLU’s chances of receiving an NIT bid. However, two wins aren’t likely, since the winner today faces Cincinnati tomorrow.