In another week or so, Norfolk State will either be kicking up its heels at the NCAA Big Dance, or dejectedly asking, “What if?”

Norfolk State, 20-10 overall and 9-5 in conference, is looking to continue its winning streak to three years at the Wells Fargo MEAC tournament, but it won’t be easy.

Coach Robert Jones’ Spartans have won the last two year-end events (and automatic bids to the NCAA) at nearby Scope. This time, however, they’ll have to do it as the No.3 seed, and riding a losing streak.

NSU opens 8 p.m. Thursday against No. 6 seed Coppin State.

If NSU survives Thursday night, they will play in the 8 p.m. semifinals on Friday. The title game is set for 1 p.m. Saturday on ESPN2.

The Spartans enter tournament play on a two-game skid.