The Ultimate Land of Chaos! That phrase to me best describes March Madness. Every year at this part of the calendar, drama, excitement, and the occasional siting of deus ex machina reign supreme across this great nation. Now how are things going to shake out this year especially given the need for a new champion?
South:
#1 Auburn vs #16 Alabama State/St Francis PA: For most of the season the Auburn Tigers have been the most dominant team in College Basketball. That 27-2 start they got off to, especially considering that this year featured possibly the most stacked SEC in the history of men’s hoops, was the stuff of legends. When you consider that Bruce Pearl’s team could trot out two excellent lines of production, there were many reasons to believe that this team would be favored to win it all. (The years that Johni Broome and Miles Kelly have had are evidence) What’s the downside? (BOOM!) They hit a bump at the end of the season. Losing three of their last four regular season games and blowing a huge lead to Rocky Top in the SEC Tournament did them no favors. Not to mention despite all of the talent they’ve had, their lack of success in March Madness also looms large. Can they make a deep run? Yes. Do I think they will, maybe. Depends on whether or not they can avoid getting in their own way again. Although in this round it should be smooth sailing unless they fail to show up. Prediction: Auburn starts the tournament with a bang and blows whoever wins the First Four game out.
#8 Louisville vs #9 Creighton: Like most 8v9 matchups, this one is very even on paper. Creighton started the year off very slow but has rebounded nicely to the point where they nearly won the Big East. (If only they didn’t get crushed by St John’s) The reasoning is simple. Their Big 3 of Ryan Kalkbrenner, Steven Ashworth, and Pop Isaacs have each averaged almost 20 points a game. Although in March if you don’t have a defense at some point it could come back to get you. The same goes for Louisville who like the Blue Jays started the year slow and outside of getting curb stomped by Duke in the ACC Tournament have looked like a completely different team. Their defense was a massive liability early on especially when Keasan Pryor went down with injury, but since then Chucky Hepburn and company have locked most of their opponents down. This is the kind of game that really catches the eye. A powerful offense that can score in bunches against a brick wall. Truly what March is all about. Prediction: Creighton proves that their run in the Big East Tournament wasn’t a fluke and wins a close one.
#5 Michigan vs #12 UC San Diego: To me Michigan Basketball reminds me a lot of the Orioles during the Earl Weaver Era. They always got off to slow starts, pundits around the country called them underachievers, and then the next thing you know they go on a tear to end the season and make believers out of many. The firing of Juwan Howard after last season gave this team a shot in the arm even if it took a while to do so. Dusty May’s boys have overcome a ton of preseason doubters and if their run to the Big Ten Title is a prime example. Even if Vlad Goldin and Danny Wolf have led the way as solid 2 way players this season, the up and coming star is Tre Donaldson who buried both the Terps and Badgers in consecutive games. However they will be up against one of the most dynamic offensive teams in the Big West. They have three guards who can each score 15 a game and they can each shoot the three ball (Aniwania Tait-Jones sticks out among the three). But here’s the one thing that could break them. NO SIZE! And their first opponent has that in spades. Prediction: The Wolverines size and defense overpowers Triton’s high powered offense.
#4 Texas A&M vs #13 Yale: The Aggies have had let’s just say a strange season. They won 13 of their first 15 games. Lost tough games to Bama and Kentucky, then won 6 of 7, and then collapsed down the stretch to the point where they got knocked out early in the SEC Tournament. At least here they get a clean slate. However their biggest problem all season long has been their lack of depth. They’re gonna need more than Wade Taylor and Zhuric Phelps to carry the load this time around, and those two were hung out to dry a late season losing streak. And they’ll need it too because they’re going up against a Yale team that won the Ivy League Title and has a good chunk of depth to support likely Ivy League Player of the Year John Poulakidas, and Nick Townsend. To me if there is any upset pick that will take place in the South, this is it. Prediction: The Aggies lack of depth comes back to haunt them in the clutch against the Bulldogs.
#6 Ole Miss vs #11 San Diego State/North Carolina: Even though this matchup isn’t set right now, either way it’s going to be a thriller of a game. Despite their lackluster finish to the season, the Rebels still boast a very deep squad that is capable of going far if they manage to play up to their potential. Their backcourt led by Sean Pedulla and Matthew Murrell is a major reason as to why they’re near the top of the SEC in scoring. That’s great, but here’s the elephant in the room. They have no defense, and no size. And whoever they get in this game is going to test that early and often. North Carolina, just like Michigan, is a team that starts slow and is questioned by many, only to turn it around and be an opponent that no one wants to face. RJ Davis and Ian Jackson like most of the team started off slow, and have gotten hot down the stretch. Size may be a concern, but with their defense, and high turnover differential it shouldn’t be a factor just yet. My gosh this is going to be a hard choice for me to make. Prediction: UNC takes down the Rebels in a showing of strong defense and clutch buckets.
#3 Iowa State vs #14 Lipscomb: Lets see, an Iowa State team that for the most part has coasted through the regular season yet faces serious questions about sustainability going into March. Sounds like I’ve heard this story before over the last half decade. Unlike most years the Cyclones have been more of an offensive team with Curtis Jones and Keshon Gilbert leading the way (Plus the two way monster of Josh Jefferson). That’s cool, but their usually reliable defense has taken a step back especially with their performance late in the year, and their record against ranked opponents isn’t very good. Luckily in this case they aren’t going against a ranked opponent, but rather one who also has a high scoring offense. If Iowa State is going to win, they’re gonna have to contain Jacob Ognacevic who has been excellent on both sides of the ball plus a white hot Joe Anderson who has been their best shooter over the last couple of months. In theory this could be Upset City, but that’s only if the Cyclones panic and let their emotions get the best of them. Prediction: The Bison keep it close only for Jones and Jefferson to bury them at the end.
#7 Marquette vs #10 New Mexico State: At this point, Marquette is probably better off being a team that’s being slept on by most of the nation. The past few years have seen the Golden Eagles look like strong favorites to make a run at the Natty going into the tournament only for them to bust people’s brackets. This time around there is little pressure on Shaka Smart’s team. Especially when you consider that they had a late season losing streak, but for Kam Jones and company, this is the chance to turn things around. (Their defense is going to be what makes or breaks them this year) If only their opponent in the opening round wasn’t white hot coming in. The Lobos may have lost to Boise State in the Mountain West Tournament but since mid-December they have been a machine that has curbstomped most of its competition. I’m looking right at Donovan Dent who has become one of the most underrated snippers in the nation. His sharpshooting and playmaking abilities has set the tone for the entire team during this stretch. (In particular he has fed off Nelly Junior Joseph and Tru Washington) From I how see it if Marquette isn’t super careful, things could get out of hand fast. Prediction: The Golden Eagles are forced to revisit getting stomped by Ja Morant in 2019 thanks to Double D.
#2 Michigan State vs #15 Bryant: When you think of Tom Iso coached Michigan State teams you think of ones who have dominant defenses. This crew is no different than his teams of the past. In 2025 they once again led the Big Ten in fewest points allowed but their offense unfortunately undid them against Wisconsin in the Conference Tournament… AGAIN! (“BUT WE GOT SCREWED BY REFBALL!” Cry Me A River!) For as good as Jase Richardson and Jaden Akins have been this year, for the Spartans to make a run at a title this season, they’re going to need their inconsistent depth to carry them. Tre Holloman and Coen Carr I’m looking right at you. The only issue I see in the Opening Round for Sparty is that they’re playing a team that is very similar to the Middle Tennessee State team that beat them a decade ago. One who has depth and can score. Earl Timberlake and Rafael Pinzon have each averaged over 20 a game since the dawn of the calendar year and were big reasons as to why the Bulldogs won the American West Championship. Even though Bryant may have the advantage both offensive and in terms of team depth. Defense and coaching will be the difference in this game. Prediction: Sparty looks shaky early on, but regroups in the 2nd Half and wins the game going away.
West:
#1 Florida vs #16 Norfolk State: Remember when we considered the Gators as an afterthought in the SEC for basketball a few years ago. I think most of America would like to take that back. This Florida team started off 13-0 and hasn’t really looked back. Walter Clayton, he and his five tool capabilities have led the way this year and it was on full display during the SEC Tournament. (Alex Condon and Will Richard are no different) From how I see it they’re a defensive teams worst nightmare considering that they can score from anywhere. Although are the kinds of teams that flail out in March more often than not. Considering that in most of their wins they’ve scored more than 85 points a game, that might not be sustainable. Although against a team like Norfolk State, that shouldn’t be an issue. We think. Prediction: The Spartans are no match for the Gators high powered offense.
#8 UConn vs #9 Oklahoma: Ah yes the defending champion UConn Huskies against a team that has most of Social Media rooting for them because they don’t want to see the same type of insufferability from said Huskie program that they saw with their women’s team. UConn this year may be weaker than their title runs in 2023 and 2024, but you can never ever say that they’re going to fall off hard. Not when they’re on an 8 game win streak in March and still have Solo Ball and Alex Karaban leading the way. The Sooners on the other hand are a very top heavy team when you look deeper into them. Jalon Moore and Jeremiah Fears have been outstanding but the rest of the team offensive is inconsistent. Although they are one of the better defensive teams in the tournament I’ll give them that. Yes defense does win championships, but you know what else helps out. Experience. Oklahoma does not have that compared to their opponents. Prediction: The lack of scoring depth haunts the Sooners as the Huskies begin their title defense in style.
#5 Memphis vs #12 Colorado State: This is probably one of the more popular upset picks of the 1st Round. The Tigers boasted the highest scoring team in the AAC this season which really isn’t saying much considering that most of the big name schools in that conference joined the mega leagues of the NCAA. (Mostly for football reasons) But you can’t dismiss the years that PJ Haggerty and Dain Dainja have had. That pick and roll combo they have will be tough to handle. However Memphis’ biggest problem this year has been their inability to control how many turnovers they commit. And against Nique Clifford and the Rams who led the Mountain West in turnover differential, it’s going to be an interesting sequence. As I said, this is Captain Obvious when it comes to picking an upset. Prediction: Colorado State dominates the turnover margin sheet which allows them to play free and win.
#4 Maryland vs #13 Grand Canyon: Which Terrapins team are we going to see? The one that played down to their competition for most of the season, or the one that dominated their 2nd Half schedule excluding 2 buzzer beaters by teams from Pure Michigan. (Or the one that reinforces why Baltimore Sports is down there with Atlanta and Minnesota when it comes to being cursed) I wasn’t thoroughly impressed when I saw them against Penn State a couple of weeks ago, but when they’re clicking, they can make noise. Derik Queen, Ja’Kobi Gillespie, and Julian Reese have set the tone during this run, and with the depth they have, there’s a reason to be optimistic. Their opponent on the other hand is no stranger to pulling off an upset in March and they’ll be looking to do the same here. Their guard duo of Jakobe Coles and Tyon Grant Foster are two aggressive players who will try to make things happen right away. If they can do just that, they’ll have a shot. Maryland please don’t underachieve for roughly the 15th year in a row. Prediction: The Lopes keep it close for 35 minutes, but then the Terps get bailed out by High End Talent.
#6 Missouri vs #11 Drake: When I was first looking into this matchup, I thought well it looks like Mizzou should in theory win this game. But when you look deeper, there are concerns. First of all, they are coming in ice cold especially after their performance in the SEC Tournament. Second of all, they play SmallBall and get exposed against teams with size. Mark Mitchell and all of the guards they have can shoot but with the lack of quality rebounding it’s going to be an uphill climb no matter what. Not to mention their opponent has a 30-3 record and is led by the possible MVC Player of the Year in Bennett Stirtz. The only issue is that he’s probably their only elite scoring option. Yes they can play defense very well, but like Mizzou they rarely have any size. And if you’re a Tigers fan, it should feel good even though this matchup is hard to predict. Prediction: Mizzou survives in a late game epic.
#3 Texas Tech vs #14 UNC Wilmington: Last year the Red Raiders had the misfortune of going up against the Cinderella Team of the tournament. This time around, I feel like they’re more suited to make a push at a deep run. What to say about JT Toppin, a two way stud that can beat you in countless ways. Same goes for Darrion Williams. Offensively it’s a fun group to watch but there are a few questions that need to be asked. Can their defense avoid a meltdown like last year, and can Grant McCasland make proper adjustments this time? If they can fix these two issues, they’ll be fine. On the other side the Seahawks have no true star but have a good bit of depth and are very balanced. Which are key ingredients for an upset to take place. Do I think it’s going to happen in this matchup given that the team that should win is coming in ticked off. NO WAY JOSE! Prediction: Texas Tech learns from their loss to NC State last year and pounds their opponents into submission.
#7 Kansas vs #10 Arkansas: Ooooh! This is going to be a fun one. One of the blue bloods of College Basketball against an opponent that has come out of nowhere to make the NCAA Tournament. The Jayhawks may not have the scoring depth they had as in years past, but they still can defend and with Hunter Dickinson making his case to be one of the top picks in the upcoming NBA Draft leading the way, Kansas is no stranger to the big moment. The Razorbacks may lack experience but they more than make up for it with defense and timely decision making. Adou Thiero and Boogie Fland have been just that this season even if Thiero has had an inconsistent season from the free throw line. Once again this matchup should be entertaining but from how I see it, if REFBALL is going to have any say in a game during the 1st Round in terms of rigging it for a blue blood, this is it. Prediction: We will see just that as well as Kansas avoiding being humiliated in Round 1.
#2 St John’s vs #15 Omaha: St John’s winning the Big East regular season title and being a strong contender for a Natty, something I didn’t see coming at the start of the year. Well thanks to their SmallBall attack led by RJ Luis Jr, the Red Storm has made believers out of many this year especially when it comes to defense and forcing turnovers. A scrappy bunch that appears to be very likable from the outset. (Seeding wise and record wise they aren’t a Cinderella team but in terms of credibility and lack of attention, they are just that) Meanwhile Omaha got off to a brutal start this season and the calls for Chris Crutchfield’s head were endless. But then under the powers of Marquel Sutton, the Mavericks have turned it around and have made it into the 64 team race. Despite this good turnaround, I don’t see Omaha getting past a team that is trying to trigger Villanova and Georgetown by doing something that they know how to do all too well. That being making a run in March. Prediction: The Red Storm crashes down on the Mavs fort thanks to a defensive masterclass in the 2nd Half.
East:
#1 Duke vs #16 American/Mount St Mary’s: Here it is boys, the team that everyone in America wants to see fail at first site. Coach K may have retired a few years ago, but that won’t stop the Blue Devil machine from running roughshod over the ACC. As usual they have the star power and the experience to convince the experts into going far myself included. This time around they’re led by a generational talent in Cooper Flagg. He may have the same concerns around him that Zion had a few years ago, but when he’s on, he’s a treat to watch and so is Tyrese Proctor. Like most great Duke teams of the past they can trot out not 1 but 2 excellent scoring lineups who can defend as well. It doesn’t matter who ends up winning the 16v16 game between American and Mount St Mary’s, the most obvious 1st Round prediction is going to await them. Prediction: Duke wins in blowout fashion. Do I really need to dig deep on this?
#8 Mississippi State vs #9 Baylor: One team is no stranger to making things happen in March, the other is an upstart. Speaking of the upstart team, Mississippi State despite the higher seed is looking to pull off a minor upset. If they’re to do this then Josh Hubbard has to be on his game. The man is an excellent shooter, and if he gets going, his teammates especially KeShawn Murray will have an easier time out there. But, their opponent as mentioned has deep playoff roots from years past. Their record may be deceiving, and their offense hasn’t been too lethal this year, but the Bears know how to win in March. If only they weren’t running a SmallBall lineup and Norchad Omier plus VJ Edgecombe weren’t so hit or miss, they’d have a much higher seed. But as North Carolina has shown over the years, seeding can be misleading if you know what you’re doing. Prediction: Baylor will throw their 19-14 record aside and maul the Bulldogs for 40 minutes.
#5 Oregon vs #12 Liberty: When I look at this matchup I notice one thing. Its size vs physicality. Speaking of said physical team, the Ducks have done surprisingly well in their first year in the Big Ten. They’ve been on a roller coaster ride for most of the year but as of late they’re trending up. Especially Jackson Shelstad and Nate Bittle. If both of them plus their depth can keep up the strong play they could go far. Liberty may have won Conference USA but Taelon Peter and his boys have rarely been tested this season. Whether that’s a good thing or not is up for debate. At least they’ve got the scoring depth to pull off an upset if the cards play out that way. Although on this version of Duck Hunt the Flames will be like their namesake. BURNED! Prediction: Oregon takes a late 1st Half lead and goes from there.
#4 Arizona vs #13 Akron: Arizona has a lot to prove this year. In recent seasons March Madness has been unkind to the Wildcats and they’re going to make sure that it isn’t one of those kinds of years again. Like Oregon the conference change has benefited them and their top player Caleb Love. With a fresh pack of competition both he and Jaden Bradley have risen their games just a tad bit but still worth it nonetheless. The Zips on the other hand have had NCAA Tournament experience before despite their low seeding. Last year if I recall correctly I had them upsetting Creighton but stalled out. This year the Johnson Brothers have a better record and at this point they expect to take a top team to the limit. Could they win their first NCAA Tournament game in school history? Maybe. But if they’re going to do so, they’re going to have to do what Buffalo did 7 years earlier against these same Wildcats. That being dominating in transition. Prediction: Arizona doesn’t play down to competition and wins going away.
#6 BYU vs #11 VCU: Another one of those matchups where it seems like anything can happen. The Cougars despite getting beat by Houston in the Big 12 Tournament are coming in red hot. Their offense led by Richie Saunders has averaged almost 90 PPG game over the last two months, and have gotten contributions from up and down the roster. But they better be careful defensively because Max Shulga is coming for them. He and Joe Bamisile have been their go to scorers during the lead up to March Madness, and both of them especially Shulga is a threat to take you deep from behind the arc. Like many matchups that are within slight seeding range, it’s hard for me to pick out who I think wins, and this is not an easy one indeed. Prediction: The Cougars and Rams go blow for blow until Saunders buries a late game dagger.
#3 Wisconsin vs #14 Montana: What tricks does Bucky have up their sleeve this time? They may have gotten heartbroken by Michigan in the Big Ten Title game but you can never ever count out a program who has been regulars in this tournament for the last 15 years. (Not to mention they’ve had some big wins this year including a takedown of Arizona) The two Johns, Blackwell and Tonje each had a big say in them making sure that they would fulfill the preseason expectations placed upon them. (No I still don’t know how they laid an egg against PSU in the regular season finale of all things) Inconsistent depth may be a concern, but with their defense it hopefully won’t bother them. For Montana, all eyes will be on Money Williams, Malik Moore and Brandon Whitney. Those three players were the most dynamic Big 3 in the Big Sky, but this is their big test. Against a team that has everything to gain because of expectations and name recognition. These kinds of narratives scream upset right? However that won’t be the case this time. Prediction: On Wisconsin to a 1st Round TKO of the Grizzlies.
#7 St Mary’s vs #10 Vanderbilt: On paper this matchup despite how close the seeding is should be obvious. St Mary’s has dominated their opponents as of late including a 17-1 record against conference opponents. Key word here is conference. This game is not against teams they know so well. But that won’t stop their fanbase into believing that imposing defense can take them on a magical run. (Plus timely offense from Augustas Marciulionis too) If they were playing a team that wasn’t a high scoring threat I’d say this would be a lock. Not when Jason Edwards and Vandy are on the other side. However a late season skit may be concerning for the Commodores. But as I mentioned above March Madness is a clean slate and some games you just can’t really explain. This will be no different. I might get bashed for saying this but the East will be the only side of the bracket with no upsets. Prediction: The Gaels hold down Vandy’s offense and win a low scoring affair.
#2 Alabama vs #15 Robert Morris: The marquee program of the SEC like most of the past few years is proving that they are more than just a one trick pony in the sports department. Alabama enters March Madness eager to make a deep run at long last. They’ve had some very talented teams over the years but none worthy enough to make it past the second week. This crew led by Mark Sears and Grant Nelson are looking to prove that the Tide can and will go far this time around. Kam Woods may be an outstanding player who has led the Colonials to a Horizon League Title but they’re up against Bama insufferability and it’s going to take more than his or Alvaro Folgueiras to take down this potential freight train straight up. Prediction: Spent my dollar on beer watching Robert Morris get rolled over by the Tide. (Well I don’t and never will drink, but still you get the joke)
Midwest:
#1 Houston #16 SIUE: I said it last year and I’ll say it again. This Houston team is very similar to their Phi Slama Jama teams. Great in the regular season yet crumble when it matters because there isn’t an off switch. After a 4-3 start, they have basically steamrolled the Big 12 into literal submission in nearly every sense of the word. I would be optimistic but like I said, I’ve seen this movie before with the Cougars. The High End Talent of LJ Cryer and Emanuel Sharp still lead the way but this is a team that in theory rolls two excellent lineups which are the kinds of teams that can make a run all the way. In addition to that they have perhaps the most vaunted defense in the tournament. (They haven’t given up 70 points in a game all year) SIUE I hate to say this but you’re going to be roadkill at first sight. Prediction: No miracle here as Phil Slama Jama II hammers down their opening foe.
#8 Gonzaga vs #9 Georgia: Can the Zags please manage to stop teasing us of glory for once in their damn lives? I’ve seen how powerful their offense is. (2nd in the nation to be exact) I know Graham Ike is slowly becoming another stud in a long line of them out of this program. That’s great but what matters to them now is simple. Making it all the way. They may be seeded lower than they usually are, but the Zags will try everything they can to end the daunting narratives placed upon them. Although there’s one question I must ask. WHAT’S THAT COMING THE TRACK!? Well it’s a Georgia team that’s playing with house money despite the solid regular season. Why do you ask when you consider that like their football team, the Dawgs defense has been near the top of the SEC? That answer is simple. Gonzaga has all the pressure on them because of their inability to get over the hump. If Georgia is able to keep it close, the lack of pressure will benefit them. But I have been wrong many times before. Prediction: The Zags don’t choke at least yet and end the Dawgs hopes of making it to Round 2.
#5 Clemson vs #12 McNeese: Considering that Clemson’s roster was gutted from the previous year it’s honestly insane that they’ve made it to this point. No not making it to the tournament but getting a Top 5 seed. It comes to show you what solid coaching and structure can do for a team. Brad Brownell may not be among the NCAA’s most recognizable coaches, but he sure knows how to win. McNeese on the other hand has in theory the offense to make a push at an upset. If Alyn Breed can play like he did during the Southland Tournament, they have a shot at taking down the Tigers. Can they? Maybe, but from how I see it. Not happening. Prediction: Clemson’s experience overpowers the Cowboy offense.
#4 Purdue vs #13 High Point: Even though Zach Edey may have graduated last year, the Boilermakers are back in the tournament and have the same ambitions as in years past. Win a championship. Last year they got all the way to the Final Boss only to get stomped by the Huskies. Now even not as much depth they’re hoping that Trey Kaufman-Renn and Braden Smith can recreate the feats pulled off a year ago. Although their opponent screams Cinderella run. High Point’s run to the Big South title was unexpected considering that the program hasn’t really had much success recently. With this their first ever appearance in the NCAA Tournament, led by Kezza Giffa and his aggressive two way style, the Panthers are looking to pull off a monumental upset. The obvious pick would be Purdue, but considering that there’s always one team that shocks everyone, this is it. Nido Qubein if you’re somehow reading this, you’re about to be pleased at what I’m about to say. Prediction: High Point shocks the world and takes down the defending National Semifinalist.
#6 Illinois vs #11 Xavier: The Illini a year ago were seen as a team that could make serious noise in March. Now I don’t know what to think of them. Terrence Shannon may be gone but his successor Will Riley has taken the reins and put together an exciting freshman campaign. Their 12-8 record against Big Ten opponents would be a concern, but this is the ultimate non-conference tournament and they have a team that is able to put up points in a hurry (Their last 8 games are evidence) Xavier meanwhile may not be a powerhouse as they were in years past, but it’s still a group that must be taken seriously given that Sean Miller has been here before. (And they won’t have the misfortune of being a team with everything to lose) If their win over Texas in the play-in games proves one thing, it’s that these Musketeers, especially Zach Freemantle have a lot of pride in them. Can it get them far? Possibly. As for this game I think their momentum will carry over. Prediction: Xavier stops the Illini offense in the clutch.
#3 Kentucky vs #14 Troy: Please tell me Kentucky, despite a coaching change, is going to continue their same damn habits of being knocked out early in March. Mark Pope may not have the experience as Calipari, but at least he has a good chunk of talent ready to carry him. In particular Otega Oweh who has really come on strong over their last several games, and Jaxson Robinson isn’t far behind. When you average 85 PPG as a team, there’s a good chance you could go far if you manage to play up to your potential. (For their fans sake they better) Troy meanwhile has been inconsistent all season long, but winning the Sun Belt title is why they’ve gotten here. The Trojans have flirted with upset potential over the years but they’re hoping that this time it finally comes into play. Tayton Conerway will have all eyes on him if they have any chance at getting there. I would be optimistic but who am I kidding, the Wildcats are trying to bash their narratives in a big way. Prediction: Kentucky goes wire to wire against Troy with excellent 3 point shooting.
#7 UCLA vs #10 Utah State: The postseason regular against the upstart. That’s a common matchup you see in this tournament. UCLA may not have the seeding to boast about but their experience and never say die mindset will have people myself included believing in them making another push at the Final 4. That and they boast a defensive juggernaut that stops whoever is in their path. Darren Savino’s boys could be a problem for anyone in the playoffs based on that alone. (If only their offense wasn’t so hit or miss) Luckily for the Bruins they’re up against an Aggies team that isn’t known for having good scoring depth. But if I’m them I’m not sleeping on Ian Martinez who has been one of if not the best sniper in the Mountain West. This has the makings of a chess match, and if so, the odds favor the team who’s been there, done that and messed around while having fun making runs in March. Prediction: UCLA’s brick wall comes into play and stops Utah State dead in its tracks.
#2 Tennessee vs #15 Wolford: Good ole Rocky Top. Who after making us laugh at Auburn again in the SEC Tournament is looking to take charge in the tournament this time around. If there was anything I’ve underestimated about the Vols this year it’s been their mental toughness. In a loaded SEC things can be overwhelming when you consider how many close games they’ve played in but Rick Barnes has had his men locked in from Day 1. Chaz Lanier in particular has been locked in more than anyone. And luckily for them they’re up against a Terriers team that has been up and down all season. Although their Cinderella run to SoCon Conference Title is something they can’t overlook. If I’m Tennessee I’m not getting cocky one bit. If they handle their business here, the jitters of upset will be gone. Prediction: There will be no upset as Rocky Top cruises to an easy win. PAUSE.
Alright we’ve finally made it to the point where I will do my Final Four predictions. This year there’s a lot of teams with deep playoff experience that are jumbled in between the brackets on each side, which makes any prediction hard to judge. This year it’ll be another case of blue bloods running March Madness. Those being Duke, Kansas, and Kentucky, and Michigan. I know I’ve got a lot of heat from my PSN TV colleagues for not picking Florida to go super far but I rest my case. NOW LET’S PLAY SOME HOOPS!
Bragging Rights Sports 