We will continue Saturday's predictions with all the conference championships, eleven to be exact. I'll do them in alphabetical order by conference.
America East
Hartford (18-15, 10-6) vs. UMBC (23-8, 13-3): Two teams that are looking for their first NCAA Tournament bid square off here. UMBC is really having its first successful season in D-I, and wants to cap it off with a huge win here. They are led by big man Darryl Proctor and outside shooter Ray Barbosa. The Retrievers also have one of the better point guards in the Am. East, Jay Greene. Hartford doesn't have a big man who can contain Proctor, and the double-team will lead to open looks for the shooters. Watch out for the Hawks' Joe Zeglinski, who is one of the better 3-point shooters in the conference.
Prediction: UMBC 79-76
Atlantic-10
St. Joseph's (21-11, 9-7) vs. Temple (20-12, 11-5): Will both of these teams get in? It seems as if St. Joe's has the better resume, especially after the win over Xavier yesterday. Temple probably will need the win today to lock up a spot, and that would mean 3 bids for the A-10. I think the Owls can do it, and Dionte Christmas should be noticed. He's one of the better unknown players in college basketball.
Prediction: Temple 72-64
Big East
Pittsburgh (25-9, 10-8) vs. #9 Georgetown (27-4, 15-3): Pittsburgh is the surprise of this tournament, coming in as a 7 seed and winning their way to the finals. They now face the regular season champs, who dismantled West Virginia in the semis behind Roy Hibbert's best effort of the season. The game will live up to the hype, and Roy Hibbert will come up clutch again. Sam Young continues to blossom for the Panthers. The game will come down to the final seconds, and I believe Jessie Sapp will make the difference.
Prediction: Georgetown 79-77 (OT)
Big West
UC Irvine (18-15, 9-7) vs. Cal State Fullerton (23-8, 12-4): Irvine has upset their way to the finals where they meet the #1 seed. Josh Akagnon and the Titans will be way to much for the Cinderella of this tournament.
Prediction: Cal State Fullerton 79-59
C-USA
Tulsa (20-12, 8-8) vs. #3 Memphis (32-1, 16-0): Memphis lucked out in that it didn't have to face UAB or Houston in the finals. They shouldn't have too much trouble with Tulsa. Derrick Rose and CDR will lead Memphis to their 33rd win of the year.
Prediction: Memphis 73-62
MAC
Akron (23-9, 11-5) vs. Kent State (27-6, 13-3): Bubble team fans will be rooting hard for Kent State in this one, as they seem likely to gain an at-large if they fall. Akron has looked very good since Jeremiah Wood came back from injury. This should be a good game, and I think in the end those bubble fans will be disappointed. Jeremiah Wood will lead the Zips into the tourney.
Prediction: Akron 61-58
MEAC
Coppin State (15-20, 7-9) vs. Morgan State (22-9, 14-2): Coppin State looks to pull an upset and reach the play-in game of the NCAAs. Morgan State is the #1 seed of the tourney. I will go with Coppin State in the upset. Tywain McKee is a good 3 point shooter and Robert Pressey controls the paint.
Prediction: Coppin State 64-60
Mountain West
UNLV (25-7, 12-4) vs. #23 Brigham Young (27-6, 14-2): Both of these teams look safe to make the field of 65, after New Mexico fell out early. The game is essentially a home game for UNLV, since the tourneys on their home court. Lee Cummard played great in the semis and he plus Johnathan Tavernari should be enough.
Prediction: Brigham Young 73-60
Pac-10
#11 Stanford (26-6, 13-5) vs. #2 UCLA (30-3, 16-2): The Pac-10 gets its dream matchup of the 1 and 2 seeds of the tourney. UCLA had a little trouble with USC, but Stanford used a big game from Brook Lopez to control the win over Wazzu. UCLA is the better team, but this game will be close. Josh Shipp will be the key scorer for the Bruins in this one, who can win without Mbah a Moute.
Prediction: UCLA 63-62
SWAC
Jackson State (14-19, 10-8) vs. Mississippi Valley State (16-15, 12-6): The winner of this game is likely to get a spot in the play-in game. Jackson State has been in the pat few NCAAs, and I think they'll take this game. Grant Maxey and Darrion Griffin are a couple good scorers for the Tigers.
Prediction: Jackson State 70-56
WAC
Boise State (24-8, 12-4) vs. New Mexico State (21-13, 12-4): What should be a very good game pits two high scoring teams up against each other. I don't know if Reggie Larry can do it all by himself for Boise, and New Mexico State has plenty of weapons. Justin Hawkins and Fred Peete will help the Aggies earn a NCAA bid.
Prediction: New Mexico State 85-81
Thats it and thats all folks, now lets watch some college basketball baybey!
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Crazy Friday Leads To Exciting Saturday
Could there have been a crazier day then yesterday? Not only were there upsets, there was tornados. The Big 10 was the home to upsets, as Illinois and Minnesota move on to face each other in the semis (to bubble teams discretion). The latest news I've heard is the Georgia/Kentucky game will be played at noon, and then the winner will face Mississippi State at 8:30pm EST. Trying to make the doubleheader as fair as possible.
We'll start off with the conferences who have semifinal games today (ACC, Big 10, Big 12, SEC), and then I'll have the conference championship games in the next post.
ACC
Virginia Tech (19-12, 9-7) vs. #1 North Carolina (30-2, 14-2): Was Virginia Tech's win over Miami yesterday enough to get them in the field? A loss today will put them right on the border. Beating the #1 team in the nation would probably lock up an at-large for the Hokies. North Carolina beat Va. Tech by 39 in their only meeting of the season, so the Hokies didn't gain too much confidence from that. I don't think they have an answer for Psycho T, North Carolina should pull away in the second half.
Prediction: North Carolina 86-69
Clemson (23-8, 10-6) vs. #7 Dook (27-4, 13-3): It will be fate that we get a third UNC-Dook matchup this season. DeMarcus Nelson should lead the way in this one, and I don't think Clemson will come close. Dook won't be looking ahead to UNC.
Prediction: Dook 87-68
Big 10
#19 Michigan State (25-7, 12-6) vs. #6 Wisconsin (27-4, 16-2): Wisconsin is one of the most underrated powers in college basketball, and they are two more wins away from locking up a 2 seed in the NCAA Tournament. Michigan State got past the Buckeyes and looked strong doing it, as Drew Neitzel had one of his strongest performances of the season. I didn't like the way Wisconsin's offense looked against Michigan. I think it will be Raymar Morgan and Kalin Lucas leading the way for the Spartans to pull off yet another Big 10 Tournament upset.
Prediction: Michigan State 65-47
Illinois (15-18, 5-13) vs. Minnesota (20-12, 8-10): If Minnesota wins this, should they get into the bubble discussion? They really only have 2 solid wins on the season, Ohio State and then the thriller over Indiana yesterday. Illinois shocked Purdue in OT to move onto the semis. Bubble teams are rooting for the Spartans and Badgers very hard, as neither of these teams look like at-large bid candidates. Dan Coleman and Lawrence Westbrook will lead Minnesota to the Big 10 title game.
Prediction: Minnesota 67-53
Big XII
Oklahoma (22-10, 9-7) vs. #8 Texas (27-5, 13-3): Both favorites moved on to the semis, where the Longhorns look to get that Texas-Kansas matchup again. DJ Augustin and AJ Abrams are about as good of a pair as any in the country. I think they'll be too much for the Sooners, who are more about the interior game with Blake Griffin and Longar Longar. Look for Texas to get back to the Big XII Final once again.
Prediction: Texas 74-54
Texas A&M (24-9, 8-8) vs. #5 Kansas (29-3, 13-3): Texas A&M held on to beat Kansas State last night, locking them up an at-large bid. Now, they get a chance to improve seeding some by beating the Jayhawks and ruining their #1 seed hopes. This is my game of the day, I think it will end up going into OT. Josh Carter and DeAndre Jordan are going to step it up for the Aggies and help them keep it close. In the end, Kansas has too many weapons, and we will get that Kansas-Texas matchup we all want to see.
Prediction: Kansas 79-69 (OT)
SEC
I'm sticking with my prediction of Georgia upsetting Kentucky, so I'll just plug them into the semis.
Arkansas (21-10, 9-7) vs. #4 Tennessee (29-3, 14-2): Arkansas may be able to feel safe after yesterday's win over Vandy. With all the losses from bubble teams, their profile looks good enough to make the field. This will be right up there with Kansas-Texas A&M for game of the day. Darian Townes has had a great tournament and I think he will contribute with a double-double. JaJuan and Tyler Smith will be the keys for the Vols as they advance in a close one.
Prediction: Tennessee 80-77 (OT)
Georgia (15-16, 4-12) vs. Mississippi State (22-9, 12-4): Georgia will advance past Kentucky to face a talented Mississippi State team who won in OT last night. However, this is the second game in the day for Georgia, a team that is shorthanded as it is. It would take an a ton of heart for them to advance in this one. It will probably be a low scoring affair, and I think that plays better for Mississippi State. Jamont Gordon will shine, and Jarvis Varnardo will make some key plays in the defensive paint.
Prediction: Mississippi State 59-49
We'll start off with the conferences who have semifinal games today (ACC, Big 10, Big 12, SEC), and then I'll have the conference championship games in the next post.
ACC
Virginia Tech (19-12, 9-7) vs. #1 North Carolina (30-2, 14-2): Was Virginia Tech's win over Miami yesterday enough to get them in the field? A loss today will put them right on the border. Beating the #1 team in the nation would probably lock up an at-large for the Hokies. North Carolina beat Va. Tech by 39 in their only meeting of the season, so the Hokies didn't gain too much confidence from that. I don't think they have an answer for Psycho T, North Carolina should pull away in the second half.
Prediction: North Carolina 86-69
Clemson (23-8, 10-6) vs. #7 Dook (27-4, 13-3): It will be fate that we get a third UNC-Dook matchup this season. DeMarcus Nelson should lead the way in this one, and I don't think Clemson will come close. Dook won't be looking ahead to UNC.
Prediction: Dook 87-68
Big 10
#19 Michigan State (25-7, 12-6) vs. #6 Wisconsin (27-4, 16-2): Wisconsin is one of the most underrated powers in college basketball, and they are two more wins away from locking up a 2 seed in the NCAA Tournament. Michigan State got past the Buckeyes and looked strong doing it, as Drew Neitzel had one of his strongest performances of the season. I didn't like the way Wisconsin's offense looked against Michigan. I think it will be Raymar Morgan and Kalin Lucas leading the way for the Spartans to pull off yet another Big 10 Tournament upset.
Prediction: Michigan State 65-47
Illinois (15-18, 5-13) vs. Minnesota (20-12, 8-10): If Minnesota wins this, should they get into the bubble discussion? They really only have 2 solid wins on the season, Ohio State and then the thriller over Indiana yesterday. Illinois shocked Purdue in OT to move onto the semis. Bubble teams are rooting for the Spartans and Badgers very hard, as neither of these teams look like at-large bid candidates. Dan Coleman and Lawrence Westbrook will lead Minnesota to the Big 10 title game.
Prediction: Minnesota 67-53
Big XII
Oklahoma (22-10, 9-7) vs. #8 Texas (27-5, 13-3): Both favorites moved on to the semis, where the Longhorns look to get that Texas-Kansas matchup again. DJ Augustin and AJ Abrams are about as good of a pair as any in the country. I think they'll be too much for the Sooners, who are more about the interior game with Blake Griffin and Longar Longar. Look for Texas to get back to the Big XII Final once again.
Prediction: Texas 74-54
Texas A&M (24-9, 8-8) vs. #5 Kansas (29-3, 13-3): Texas A&M held on to beat Kansas State last night, locking them up an at-large bid. Now, they get a chance to improve seeding some by beating the Jayhawks and ruining their #1 seed hopes. This is my game of the day, I think it will end up going into OT. Josh Carter and DeAndre Jordan are going to step it up for the Aggies and help them keep it close. In the end, Kansas has too many weapons, and we will get that Kansas-Texas matchup we all want to see.
Prediction: Kansas 79-69 (OT)
SEC
I'm sticking with my prediction of Georgia upsetting Kentucky, so I'll just plug them into the semis.
Arkansas (21-10, 9-7) vs. #4 Tennessee (29-3, 14-2): Arkansas may be able to feel safe after yesterday's win over Vandy. With all the losses from bubble teams, their profile looks good enough to make the field. This will be right up there with Kansas-Texas A&M for game of the day. Darian Townes has had a great tournament and I think he will contribute with a double-double. JaJuan and Tyler Smith will be the keys for the Vols as they advance in a close one.
Prediction: Tennessee 80-77 (OT)
Georgia (15-16, 4-12) vs. Mississippi State (22-9, 12-4): Georgia will advance past Kentucky to face a talented Mississippi State team who won in OT last night. However, this is the second game in the day for Georgia, a team that is shorthanded as it is. It would take an a ton of heart for them to advance in this one. It will probably be a low scoring affair, and I think that plays better for Mississippi State. Jamont Gordon will shine, and Jarvis Varnardo will make some key plays in the defensive paint.
Prediction: Mississippi State 59-49
Friday, March 14, 2008
Friday's Picks Cont'd
Big 10
Michigan (10-21, 5-13) vs. #6 Wisconsin (26-4, 16-2): Michigan shouldn't give Wisconsin too much trouble, Trevon Hughes will have a solid game for the Badgers.
Prediction: Wisconsin 68-59
Ohio State (19-12, 10-8) vs. #19 Michigan State (24-7, 12-6): Ohio State will be pretty safe with a win in this one. They just beat the Spartans at home, and get them on a neutral court. Michigan State is a solid team, but Jamar Butler and the Buckeyes move on in a close one.
Prediction: Ohio State 68-66
Illinois (14-18, 5-13) vs. #16 Purdue (24-7, 15-3): Illinois will give the Boilermakers a good run in this quarterfinal matchup. I don't know that they have enough to sustain a lead the whole game. Robbie Hummell should light it up from outside.
Prediction: Purdue 73-72
Minnesota (19-12, 8-10) vs. #20 Indiana (25-6, 14-4): DJ White and Eric Gordon will lead the Hoosiers past Tubby's boys.
Prediction: Indiana 68-57
Big XII
Oklahoma State (17-14, 7-9) vs. #8 Texas (26-5, 13-3): Oklahoma State has really made a nice comeback down the stretch, but this league belongs to Texas and Kansas. The Cowboys should challenge Texas, but Abrams and Augustin will help the Longhorns.
Prediction: Texas 63-60
Colorado (12-19, 3-13) vs. Oklahoma (21-10, 9-7): Colorado upset Baylor to move on to the quarters, where they face an Oklahoma team who appears to be safe to make the field. Blake Griffin is a future lottery pick, and he'll shine in this one.
Prediction: Oklahoma 51-50
Nebraska (19-11, 7-9) vs. #5 Kansas (28-3, 13-3): Nebraska got absolutely blown out by the Jayhawks last time these teams met. The same should happen here, as the Huskers don't have much talent outside of Aleks Maric.
Prediction: Kansas 80-58
SEC
South Carolina (14-17, 5-11) vs. #4 Tennessee (28-3, 14-2): In what could be South Carolina coach Dave Odom's final game (he's going to retire after the season), the Gamecocks have a tough task. They probably can't contain JaJuan Smith and Chris Lofton from outside, and Wayne Chism will do work on the interior.
Prediction: Tennessee 79-53
#17 Vanderbilt (26-6, 10-6) vs. Arkansas (20-10, 9-7): I think Arkansas should get in if they can handle Vandy in this one. They have to be able to contain sharpshooter Shan Foster in order to pull off the win. Look for a big game from Darian Townes, and the Razorbacks will move on.
Prediction: Arkansas 74-66
Alabama (17-15, 5-11) vs. Mississippi State (21-9, 12-4): Alabama looked good in their upset over Florida, but Mississippi State is the second best team in the SEC. Jamont Gordon should get his points, and Jarvis Varnardo controls the defensive paint.
Prediction: Mississippi State 70-61
Georgia (14-16, 4-12) vs. Kentucky (18-11, 12-4): Kentucky won't be safe if they let the Bulldogs upset them in this matchup. I for one believe Georgia can win it, with some solid defense and good shooting from Sundiata Gaines and Terrance Woodbury. This will leave Kentucky right on the edge of the bubble.
Prediction: Georgia 67-51
Pac-10
USC (21-10, 11-7) vs. #2 UCLA (29-3, 16-2): I think this one will be the most exciting game of the day/night. OJ Mayo and Taj Gibson can do enough to take down the Bruins, but UCLA looked very strong in the win over Cal. Look for Kevin Love and Darren Collison to lead the charge, but this is one that could come down to the final possession.
Prediction: UCLA 79-77
#21 Washington State (24-7, 11-7) vs. #11 Stanford (25-6, 13-5): Another good matchup pits the 2nd and 3rd place finishers in the Pac-10. I think Taylor Rochestie and do everything guy Kyle Weaver will keep Wazzu in the game. Washington State will go after the Lopez twins and get them in foul trouble. I do believe that Lawrence Hill and Anthony Goods can step it up when this happens. We'll be seeing the top 2 teams in the Pac-10 in the final.
Prediction: Stanford 74-61
Atlantic-10
St. Joseph's (20-11, 9-7) vs. #12 Xavier (27-5, 14-2): With all these teams losing, Saint Joe's is the one team playing their way in. That could continue tonight against the top team in the conference. A win pretty much locks up an at-large bid for the Hawks. Look for Ahmad Nivins to play great again, and for exceptional coaching by Phil Martelli to push St. Joe's into the final.
Prediction: St. Joseph's 83-74
Charlotte (20-12, 9-7) vs. Temple (19-12, 11-5): Is it time to take a closer look at Temple? With UMass and Dayton losing, Temple has a chance to boost their stock by advancing to the finals. They finished second in the regular season and did beat Xavier. Leemire Goldwire is a star on Charlotte. He should help them stay in the game, and this should be one that comes down to the final seconds.
Prediction: Charlotte 58-56
Patriot League Championship
Colgate (18-13, 7-7) vs. American (20-11, 10-4): Colgate has found their way to the championship game, where the #1 seed awaits them. League stalwarts Bucknell and Holy Cross had rough seasons, so this game is something different. I'm feeling the upset, as Colgate gets it done with a team effort.
Prediction: Colgate 82-75
Michigan (10-21, 5-13) vs. #6 Wisconsin (26-4, 16-2): Michigan shouldn't give Wisconsin too much trouble, Trevon Hughes will have a solid game for the Badgers.
Prediction: Wisconsin 68-59
Ohio State (19-12, 10-8) vs. #19 Michigan State (24-7, 12-6): Ohio State will be pretty safe with a win in this one. They just beat the Spartans at home, and get them on a neutral court. Michigan State is a solid team, but Jamar Butler and the Buckeyes move on in a close one.
Prediction: Ohio State 68-66
Illinois (14-18, 5-13) vs. #16 Purdue (24-7, 15-3): Illinois will give the Boilermakers a good run in this quarterfinal matchup. I don't know that they have enough to sustain a lead the whole game. Robbie Hummell should light it up from outside.
Prediction: Purdue 73-72
Minnesota (19-12, 8-10) vs. #20 Indiana (25-6, 14-4): DJ White and Eric Gordon will lead the Hoosiers past Tubby's boys.
Prediction: Indiana 68-57
Big XII
Oklahoma State (17-14, 7-9) vs. #8 Texas (26-5, 13-3): Oklahoma State has really made a nice comeback down the stretch, but this league belongs to Texas and Kansas. The Cowboys should challenge Texas, but Abrams and Augustin will help the Longhorns.
Prediction: Texas 63-60
Colorado (12-19, 3-13) vs. Oklahoma (21-10, 9-7): Colorado upset Baylor to move on to the quarters, where they face an Oklahoma team who appears to be safe to make the field. Blake Griffin is a future lottery pick, and he'll shine in this one.
Prediction: Oklahoma 51-50
Nebraska (19-11, 7-9) vs. #5 Kansas (28-3, 13-3): Nebraska got absolutely blown out by the Jayhawks last time these teams met. The same should happen here, as the Huskers don't have much talent outside of Aleks Maric.
Prediction: Kansas 80-58
SEC
South Carolina (14-17, 5-11) vs. #4 Tennessee (28-3, 14-2): In what could be South Carolina coach Dave Odom's final game (he's going to retire after the season), the Gamecocks have a tough task. They probably can't contain JaJuan Smith and Chris Lofton from outside, and Wayne Chism will do work on the interior.
Prediction: Tennessee 79-53
#17 Vanderbilt (26-6, 10-6) vs. Arkansas (20-10, 9-7): I think Arkansas should get in if they can handle Vandy in this one. They have to be able to contain sharpshooter Shan Foster in order to pull off the win. Look for a big game from Darian Townes, and the Razorbacks will move on.
Prediction: Arkansas 74-66
Alabama (17-15, 5-11) vs. Mississippi State (21-9, 12-4): Alabama looked good in their upset over Florida, but Mississippi State is the second best team in the SEC. Jamont Gordon should get his points, and Jarvis Varnardo controls the defensive paint.
Prediction: Mississippi State 70-61
Georgia (14-16, 4-12) vs. Kentucky (18-11, 12-4): Kentucky won't be safe if they let the Bulldogs upset them in this matchup. I for one believe Georgia can win it, with some solid defense and good shooting from Sundiata Gaines and Terrance Woodbury. This will leave Kentucky right on the edge of the bubble.
Prediction: Georgia 67-51
Pac-10
USC (21-10, 11-7) vs. #2 UCLA (29-3, 16-2): I think this one will be the most exciting game of the day/night. OJ Mayo and Taj Gibson can do enough to take down the Bruins, but UCLA looked very strong in the win over Cal. Look for Kevin Love and Darren Collison to lead the charge, but this is one that could come down to the final possession.
Prediction: UCLA 79-77
#21 Washington State (24-7, 11-7) vs. #11 Stanford (25-6, 13-5): Another good matchup pits the 2nd and 3rd place finishers in the Pac-10. I think Taylor Rochestie and do everything guy Kyle Weaver will keep Wazzu in the game. Washington State will go after the Lopez twins and get them in foul trouble. I do believe that Lawrence Hill and Anthony Goods can step it up when this happens. We'll be seeing the top 2 teams in the Pac-10 in the final.
Prediction: Stanford 74-61
Atlantic-10
St. Joseph's (20-11, 9-7) vs. #12 Xavier (27-5, 14-2): With all these teams losing, Saint Joe's is the one team playing their way in. That could continue tonight against the top team in the conference. A win pretty much locks up an at-large bid for the Hawks. Look for Ahmad Nivins to play great again, and for exceptional coaching by Phil Martelli to push St. Joe's into the final.
Prediction: St. Joseph's 83-74
Charlotte (20-12, 9-7) vs. Temple (19-12, 11-5): Is it time to take a closer look at Temple? With UMass and Dayton losing, Temple has a chance to boost their stock by advancing to the finals. They finished second in the regular season and did beat Xavier. Leemire Goldwire is a star on Charlotte. He should help them stay in the game, and this should be one that comes down to the final seconds.
Prediction: Charlotte 58-56
Patriot League Championship
Colgate (18-13, 7-7) vs. American (20-11, 10-4): Colgate has found their way to the championship game, where the #1 seed awaits them. League stalwarts Bucknell and Holy Cross had rough seasons, so this game is something different. I'm feeling the upset, as Colgate gets it done with a team effort.
Prediction: Colgate 82-75
Thursday, March 13, 2008
A Look At Friday's Games
An exciting day Thursday, with some great games in the Big East Tournament and a double overtime thriller between Colorado and Baylor in the Big XII. Teams really stumbled some more onto the bubble, as Villanova, Baylor, Oregon, and Arizona State were a few of the teams that couldn't get it done. We won't have a threepeat, as Florida's lost to Alabama solidifies what looks to be a NIT postseason for the Gators. Friday should have some big games as well, hopefully helping us clear this bubble situation up at all.
ACC
Florida State (19-13, 7-9) vs. #1 North Carolina (29-2, 14-2): The Seminoles got past Wake Forest in the first round, and now gets a chance to pick up a huge win and put themselves in better NCAA position. UNC will be on a mission to earn the overall #1 seed. Look for Hansbrough and Ellington to come up with good games.
Prediction: North Carolina 86-61
Miami (22-9, 8-8) vs. Virginia Tech (18-12, 9-7): Miami can probably feel pretty safe after winning their first round game, but can get comfortable by advancing to the semis here. Virginia Tech needs at least this win, and perhaps the upset over the Tar Heels, to get in. A loss here and they won't even garner consideration for an at-large. The Hokies' two vets, AD Vassallo and Deron Washington, will show that sense of urgency in such a huge game.
Prediction: Virginia Tech 78-67
Georgia Tech (15-16, 7-9) vs. #7 Dook (26-4, 13-3): Dook shouldn't have too much trouble advancing against a Yellow Jackets team that doesn't have the personnel to match up with the Dookies. Ga. Tech did a fine job in handling Virginia, but DeMarcus Nelson and Co. will lead Dook into the semifinals.
Prediction: Dook 84-59
Boston College (14-16, 4-12) vs. Clemson (22-8, 10-6): A game with not too much meaning, just seeding purpose for Clemson. They're glad that they aren't in the same position as these other ACC bubblers. Could Boston College pull off another upset? I think they'll need a big game from Tyrese Rice. He's got the experience and skills to help Boston College pull it off.
Prediction: Boston College 76-70
Big East
West Virginia (24-9, 11-7) vs. #9 Georgetown (26-4, 15-3): West Virginia has moved into lock status after beating UConn behind the strong play of Joe Alexander. Georgetown avoided an upset with some hot shooting versus 'Nova. Jonathan Wallace and Austin Freeman should stay hot from the outside as the favorite moves on to the championship game.
Prediction: Georgetown 74-68
Pittsburgh (24-9, 10-8) vs. #24 Marquette (24-8, 11-7): Two teams that pulled off upsets square off and look to move on to the Big East Finals. The Golden Eagles got a big effort from Jerel McNeal in the victory over Notre Dame Thursday night. A team effort will be what pushes them on to the finals.
Prediction: Marquette 81-70
The rest of the conferences should be updated in the morning, and then around noon.
ACC
Florida State (19-13, 7-9) vs. #1 North Carolina (29-2, 14-2): The Seminoles got past Wake Forest in the first round, and now gets a chance to pick up a huge win and put themselves in better NCAA position. UNC will be on a mission to earn the overall #1 seed. Look for Hansbrough and Ellington to come up with good games.
Prediction: North Carolina 86-61
Miami (22-9, 8-8) vs. Virginia Tech (18-12, 9-7): Miami can probably feel pretty safe after winning their first round game, but can get comfortable by advancing to the semis here. Virginia Tech needs at least this win, and perhaps the upset over the Tar Heels, to get in. A loss here and they won't even garner consideration for an at-large. The Hokies' two vets, AD Vassallo and Deron Washington, will show that sense of urgency in such a huge game.
Prediction: Virginia Tech 78-67
Georgia Tech (15-16, 7-9) vs. #7 Dook (26-4, 13-3): Dook shouldn't have too much trouble advancing against a Yellow Jackets team that doesn't have the personnel to match up with the Dookies. Ga. Tech did a fine job in handling Virginia, but DeMarcus Nelson and Co. will lead Dook into the semifinals.
Prediction: Dook 84-59
Boston College (14-16, 4-12) vs. Clemson (22-8, 10-6): A game with not too much meaning, just seeding purpose for Clemson. They're glad that they aren't in the same position as these other ACC bubblers. Could Boston College pull off another upset? I think they'll need a big game from Tyrese Rice. He's got the experience and skills to help Boston College pull it off.
Prediction: Boston College 76-70
Big East
West Virginia (24-9, 11-7) vs. #9 Georgetown (26-4, 15-3): West Virginia has moved into lock status after beating UConn behind the strong play of Joe Alexander. Georgetown avoided an upset with some hot shooting versus 'Nova. Jonathan Wallace and Austin Freeman should stay hot from the outside as the favorite moves on to the championship game.
Prediction: Georgetown 74-68
Pittsburgh (24-9, 10-8) vs. #24 Marquette (24-8, 11-7): Two teams that pulled off upsets square off and look to move on to the Big East Finals. The Golden Eagles got a big effort from Jerel McNeal in the victory over Notre Dame Thursday night. A team effort will be what pushes them on to the finals.
Prediction: Marquette 81-70
The rest of the conferences should be updated in the morning, and then around noon.
Big 10, Pac-10, SEC
We will finish off the rest of Thursday's predictions with a look at 3 more major conferences, the Big 10, Pac-10, and SEC. There aren't really any important games in Big 10 play today, but the other 2 conferences can shake up the bubble with their games.
Big 10
Pac-10
Arizona State (19-11, 9-9) vs. USC (20-10, 11-7): An important game, especially for Herb Sendek's Sun Devils, who are probably squeezed out if they lose. A win might put them on the right side of the bubble. Look for Ty Abbott and James Harden to show that sense of urgency and pull out a huge win.
Prediction: Arizona State 68-52
California (16-14, 6-12) vs. #2 UCLA (28-3, 16-2): I'm expecting a close game here as Ryan Anderson is a stud, and UCLA has not had great success in the past couple Pac-10 tourneys. I think Kevin Love will come up huge for them down low, and look for a team effort from Darren Collison, Josh Shipp, and Russell Westbrook on the outside.
Prediction: UCLA 80-79
Oregon (18-12, 9-9) vs. #21 Washington State (23-7, 11-7): Knowing what Arizona State did earlier in the day could be of benefit to Oregon, because if Arizona State loses the Ducks may still get a bid with a loss here. To feel confident heading into Selection Sunday, Oregon will want a win here. Wazzu has just too much though, as I think Taylor Rochestie and Derrick Low are set for big games. I've penciled in Washington State as one of my dark horse Final Four suggestions.
Prediction: Washington State 83-65
Arizona (19-13, 8-10) vs. #11 Stanford (24-6, 13-5): Arizona blew away bottom feeder Oregon State last night, and looks safe to be dancing. They sure would love to take out a top team in the conference like Stanford though, who lost a few games down the stretch after being in contention for the Pac-10 title. Nic Wise is healthy, and he should team with Jerryd Bayless to help the 'Cats make some noise in this tourney.
Prediction: Arizona 75-66
SEC
South Carolina (13-17, 5-11) vs. LSU (13-17, 6-10): LSU hasn't been too bad down the stretch, and has some great talent in Anthony Randolph and Marcus Thornton. Don't be surprised if they pull an upset in a later round.
Prediction: LSU 65-51
Auburn (14-15, 4-12) vs. #17 Vanderbilt (25-6, 10-6): Vandy has struggled since taking out Tennessee, but Auburn is just horrible. Expect Shan Foster and Alex Gordon to dial it up from long range in a blowout.
Prediction: Vanderbilt 99-68
Alabama (16-15, 5-11) vs. Florida (21-10, 8-8): Florida needs to advance to the SEC Championship game if they want to make the field to defend their title. I like the shooters on Alabama, Mykal Riley and Alonzo Gee. I think 'Bama pulls off the huge upset.
Prediction: Alabama 86-77
Georgia (13-16, 4-12) vs. Mississippi (21-9, 7-9): Ole Miss is an intriguing team when you look at their schedule and stats. They were so good non-conference, has a Clemson-esque fall during the SEC season, and bounced back to finish with a 7-9 league mark. They may need 2 wins in this tourney to get on the right side of the bubble. Dwayne Curtis will help the Rebels blow past a bad Georgia team.
Prediction: Mississippi 84-68
Big 10
Michigan (9-21, 5-13) vs. Iowa (13-18, 6-12): Michigan should pull this one out, they are a well coached team despite not having the great talent.
Prediction: Michigan 76-61
Illinois (13-18, 5-13) vs. Penn State (15-15, 7-11): This should be a pretty good game. Illinois has had a disappointing season, and hope to at least pick up a win in this tourney. Trent Meacham is a very underrated shooter.
Prediction: Illinois 68-65
Northwestern (8-21, 1-17) vs. Minnesota (18-12, 8-10): Northwestern looks to pull an upset against Tubby Smith's Golden Golphers, who put together a decent season but didn't beat anyone. Spencer Tollackson and Dan Coleman will lead Minnesota to the next round.
Prediction: Minnesota 74-64
Pac-10
Arizona State (19-11, 9-9) vs. USC (20-10, 11-7): An important game, especially for Herb Sendek's Sun Devils, who are probably squeezed out if they lose. A win might put them on the right side of the bubble. Look for Ty Abbott and James Harden to show that sense of urgency and pull out a huge win.
Prediction: Arizona State 68-52
California (16-14, 6-12) vs. #2 UCLA (28-3, 16-2): I'm expecting a close game here as Ryan Anderson is a stud, and UCLA has not had great success in the past couple Pac-10 tourneys. I think Kevin Love will come up huge for them down low, and look for a team effort from Darren Collison, Josh Shipp, and Russell Westbrook on the outside.
Prediction: UCLA 80-79
Oregon (18-12, 9-9) vs. #21 Washington State (23-7, 11-7): Knowing what Arizona State did earlier in the day could be of benefit to Oregon, because if Arizona State loses the Ducks may still get a bid with a loss here. To feel confident heading into Selection Sunday, Oregon will want a win here. Wazzu has just too much though, as I think Taylor Rochestie and Derrick Low are set for big games. I've penciled in Washington State as one of my dark horse Final Four suggestions.
Prediction: Washington State 83-65
Arizona (19-13, 8-10) vs. #11 Stanford (24-6, 13-5): Arizona blew away bottom feeder Oregon State last night, and looks safe to be dancing. They sure would love to take out a top team in the conference like Stanford though, who lost a few games down the stretch after being in contention for the Pac-10 title. Nic Wise is healthy, and he should team with Jerryd Bayless to help the 'Cats make some noise in this tourney.
Prediction: Arizona 75-66
SEC
South Carolina (13-17, 5-11) vs. LSU (13-17, 6-10): LSU hasn't been too bad down the stretch, and has some great talent in Anthony Randolph and Marcus Thornton. Don't be surprised if they pull an upset in a later round.
Prediction: LSU 65-51
Auburn (14-15, 4-12) vs. #17 Vanderbilt (25-6, 10-6): Vandy has struggled since taking out Tennessee, but Auburn is just horrible. Expect Shan Foster and Alex Gordon to dial it up from long range in a blowout.
Prediction: Vanderbilt 99-68
Alabama (16-15, 5-11) vs. Florida (21-10, 8-8): Florida needs to advance to the SEC Championship game if they want to make the field to defend their title. I like the shooters on Alabama, Mykal Riley and Alonzo Gee. I think 'Bama pulls off the huge upset.
Prediction: Alabama 86-77
Georgia (13-16, 4-12) vs. Mississippi (21-9, 7-9): Ole Miss is an intriguing team when you look at their schedule and stats. They were so good non-conference, has a Clemson-esque fall during the SEC season, and bounced back to finish with a 7-9 league mark. They may need 2 wins in this tourney to get on the right side of the bubble. Dwayne Curtis will help the Rebels blow past a bad Georgia team.
Prediction: Mississippi 84-68
Thursday's Championship Week Predictions
My win/loss wasn't spectacular yesterday, but how about that St. Joe's/Fordham game? I hit the 80-62 final score right on the nose. Let's see if I can do that more often today.
Big East
Villanova (20-11, 9-9) vs. #9 Georgetown (25-4, 15-3): Villanova kept their NCAA hopes alive Wednesday with a big win over 'Cuse. A win here would probably be enough for the Wildcats, but it won't be easy against the regular season Big East champ. Expect a close game, but the Hoyas have too many weapons and too much defense.
Prediction: Georgetown 67-63
West Virginia (23-9, 11-7) vs. #15 Connecticut (24-7, 13-5): It looks good for West Virginia after yesterday's win over Providence. The team won 11 Big East games and didn't get upset in the first round of the Big East Tournament. However, they could feel completely safe with a win over Connecticut. The Mountaineers will be rooting for Georgetown as well, to avoid 'Nova jumping them. I don't think West Virginia will be able to have success on the inside, as Hasheem Thabeet is a force to be reckoned with. It will be more about Alex Ruoff and Darris Nichols knocking down shots from the perimeter. On the other side, Jeff Adrien should have a big game.
Prediction: Connecticut 73-64
Pittsburgh (23-9, 10-8) vs. #13 Louisville (24-7, 14-4): This one should be a real physical battle as Pittsburgh looks to pull off a big upset over the #2 seed in the tourney. Sam Young is playing his best basketball of the season, and I don't know if the Cardinals have a guy who can contain him. If they do, Keith Benjamin should benefit. Louisville will rely on Terrance Williams to deliver. This should be a neck-and-neck game to the finish, but I like the Panthers in the upset.
Prediction: Pittsburgh 62-60
#24 Marquette (23-8, 11-7) vs. #14 Notre Dame (24-6, 14-4): Marquette pulled away from Seton Hall to avoid a first round upset in last evening's nightcap. Now they have the opportunity to better their seed for the NCAA Tournament. Look for a big game from Dominic James for the Golden Eagles. On Notre Dame's side, they will try to look to Big East POY Luke Harangody. I think Marquette keeps him under 20 points, although I believe McAlarney will put up a bunch. In the end, Marquette has so many weapons and if they're making their shots, they could take the tourney.
Prediction: Marquette 81-71
ACC
Florida State (18-13, 7-9) vs. Wake Forest (17-12, 7-9): At one point a few weeks ago Wake was on the bubble after upsetting Dook, but they haven't been able to string together any more quality wins. Both teams would love the chance to face North Carolina in the next round. I think Jeff Teague is going to be the difference for the Demon Deacons.
Prediction: Wake Forest 63-58
North Carolina State (15-15, 4-12) vs. Miami (21-9, 8-8): A must-win for Miami. A loss and they are on the border of missing the NCAA's, a win and they should be in. N.C. State looks to recapture the magic they had in last season's ACC Tournament. Jack McClinton has been a great transfer for Miami, and he'll help them avoid the upset.
Prediction: Miami 68-66
Virginia (15-14, 5-11) vs. Georgia Tech (14-16, 7-9): The winner of this matchup will get a shot at upsetting Dook in the quarterfinals. This could be the final game of a great career for Sean Singletary. Virginia was a 4 seed in last year's NCAA Tournament, but losing all their key players (other then Singletary) has dropped the Cavs to the bottom of the ACC this season.
Prediction: Georgia Tech 81-77
Boston College (13-16, 4-12) vs. Maryland (18-13, 8-8): The finale is one of three wins the Terps need in this tournament in order to earn an at-large bid. They should be able to handle Boston College in this one, and they will move on to face Clemson with a win. Expect big games from Greivis Vasquez and Landon Milbourne.
Prediction: Maryland 77-75
Atlantic-10
Dayton (21-9, 8-8) vs. #12 Xavier (26-5, 14-2): The most intriguing game of any games in all the tourneys today in my opinion. Dayton is in the same boat as Villanova, beat the best team in your conference and you can feel safe. A loss, and it will be all about what other teams do. Xavier is looking to keep or improve their seeding by winning the tourney.
Prediction: Xavier 69-59
Saint Joseph's (19-11, 9-7) vs. Richmond (18-13, 9-7): St. Joe's easily handled Fordham yesterday and looks to beat Richmond today to keep their NCAA hopes alive. The Hawks handled Richmond by 18 in their only meeting earlier this season. Expect Ahmad Nivins to have the big game for St. Joe's.
Prediction: St. Joseph's 75-55
LaSalle (15-16, 8-8) vs. Temple (18-12, 11-5): Temple may need the auto-bid to get in the field of 65, despite finishing second in the conference and upsetting Xavier. Dionte Christmas should help Temple move into the semis.
Predictions: Temple 79-75
Charlotte (19-12, 9-7) vs. Massachusetts (21-9, 10-6): Charlotte helped end Rhode Island's collapse from being a NCAA Tournament candidate by taking them out in the first round. They look to do the same to the Minutemen, who should be in if they win this game. Add UMass's Gary Forbes to the best player you've never heard of list, he'll show how good he is in this game.
Prediction: Massachusetts 76-64
Big XII
Oklahoma State (16-14, 7-9) vs. Texas Tech (16-14, 7-9): Two teams with identical records face off in the opener of the tourney. Look for the Cowboys balanced attack to keep them in the game against Pat Knight's Red Raiders. I think Byron Eaton will step it up for OK State, and they'll move on.
Prediction: Oklahoma State 60-57
Colorado (11-19, 3-13) vs. Baylor (21-9, 9-7): Baylor needs this win to feel better about their NCAA chances. A loss here to the cellar dweller of the Big XII would be killer. Curtis Jerrills won't let it happen, and Baylor should move on to face Oklahoma.
Prediction: Baylor 64-50
Missouri (16-15, 6-10) vs. Nebraska (18-11, 7-9): Neither team has had a great season and this game could be a sloppy one. Nebraska has a talented center in Aleks Maric, and he'll be the best player on the floor. Mizzou's gone through a tough season that included dismissing their leading scorer from the team.
Prediction: Nebraska 64-63
Iowa State (14-17, 4-12) vs. Texas A&M (22-9, 8-8): The Aggies are right on the bubble and have to win this one, and possibly one more. A&M just doesn't have a top scorer to lead them like Acie Law did last season. I think they win this, but the next round could be trouble.
Prediction: Texas A&M 57-55
Big 10, SEC, and Pac-10 will all be posted around 10:30 am EST.
Big East
Villanova (20-11, 9-9) vs. #9 Georgetown (25-4, 15-3): Villanova kept their NCAA hopes alive Wednesday with a big win over 'Cuse. A win here would probably be enough for the Wildcats, but it won't be easy against the regular season Big East champ. Expect a close game, but the Hoyas have too many weapons and too much defense.
Prediction: Georgetown 67-63
West Virginia (23-9, 11-7) vs. #15 Connecticut (24-7, 13-5): It looks good for West Virginia after yesterday's win over Providence. The team won 11 Big East games and didn't get upset in the first round of the Big East Tournament. However, they could feel completely safe with a win over Connecticut. The Mountaineers will be rooting for Georgetown as well, to avoid 'Nova jumping them. I don't think West Virginia will be able to have success on the inside, as Hasheem Thabeet is a force to be reckoned with. It will be more about Alex Ruoff and Darris Nichols knocking down shots from the perimeter. On the other side, Jeff Adrien should have a big game.
Prediction: Connecticut 73-64
Pittsburgh (23-9, 10-8) vs. #13 Louisville (24-7, 14-4): This one should be a real physical battle as Pittsburgh looks to pull off a big upset over the #2 seed in the tourney. Sam Young is playing his best basketball of the season, and I don't know if the Cardinals have a guy who can contain him. If they do, Keith Benjamin should benefit. Louisville will rely on Terrance Williams to deliver. This should be a neck-and-neck game to the finish, but I like the Panthers in the upset.
Prediction: Pittsburgh 62-60
#24 Marquette (23-8, 11-7) vs. #14 Notre Dame (24-6, 14-4): Marquette pulled away from Seton Hall to avoid a first round upset in last evening's nightcap. Now they have the opportunity to better their seed for the NCAA Tournament. Look for a big game from Dominic James for the Golden Eagles. On Notre Dame's side, they will try to look to Big East POY Luke Harangody. I think Marquette keeps him under 20 points, although I believe McAlarney will put up a bunch. In the end, Marquette has so many weapons and if they're making their shots, they could take the tourney.
Prediction: Marquette 81-71
ACC
Florida State (18-13, 7-9) vs. Wake Forest (17-12, 7-9): At one point a few weeks ago Wake was on the bubble after upsetting Dook, but they haven't been able to string together any more quality wins. Both teams would love the chance to face North Carolina in the next round. I think Jeff Teague is going to be the difference for the Demon Deacons.
Prediction: Wake Forest 63-58
North Carolina State (15-15, 4-12) vs. Miami (21-9, 8-8): A must-win for Miami. A loss and they are on the border of missing the NCAA's, a win and they should be in. N.C. State looks to recapture the magic they had in last season's ACC Tournament. Jack McClinton has been a great transfer for Miami, and he'll help them avoid the upset.
Prediction: Miami 68-66
Virginia (15-14, 5-11) vs. Georgia Tech (14-16, 7-9): The winner of this matchup will get a shot at upsetting Dook in the quarterfinals. This could be the final game of a great career for Sean Singletary. Virginia was a 4 seed in last year's NCAA Tournament, but losing all their key players (other then Singletary) has dropped the Cavs to the bottom of the ACC this season.
Prediction: Georgia Tech 81-77
Boston College (13-16, 4-12) vs. Maryland (18-13, 8-8): The finale is one of three wins the Terps need in this tournament in order to earn an at-large bid. They should be able to handle Boston College in this one, and they will move on to face Clemson with a win. Expect big games from Greivis Vasquez and Landon Milbourne.
Prediction: Maryland 77-75
Atlantic-10
Dayton (21-9, 8-8) vs. #12 Xavier (26-5, 14-2): The most intriguing game of any games in all the tourneys today in my opinion. Dayton is in the same boat as Villanova, beat the best team in your conference and you can feel safe. A loss, and it will be all about what other teams do. Xavier is looking to keep or improve their seeding by winning the tourney.
Prediction: Xavier 69-59
Saint Joseph's (19-11, 9-7) vs. Richmond (18-13, 9-7): St. Joe's easily handled Fordham yesterday and looks to beat Richmond today to keep their NCAA hopes alive. The Hawks handled Richmond by 18 in their only meeting earlier this season. Expect Ahmad Nivins to have the big game for St. Joe's.
Prediction: St. Joseph's 75-55
LaSalle (15-16, 8-8) vs. Temple (18-12, 11-5): Temple may need the auto-bid to get in the field of 65, despite finishing second in the conference and upsetting Xavier. Dionte Christmas should help Temple move into the semis.
Predictions: Temple 79-75
Charlotte (19-12, 9-7) vs. Massachusetts (21-9, 10-6): Charlotte helped end Rhode Island's collapse from being a NCAA Tournament candidate by taking them out in the first round. They look to do the same to the Minutemen, who should be in if they win this game. Add UMass's Gary Forbes to the best player you've never heard of list, he'll show how good he is in this game.
Prediction: Massachusetts 76-64
Big XII
Oklahoma State (16-14, 7-9) vs. Texas Tech (16-14, 7-9): Two teams with identical records face off in the opener of the tourney. Look for the Cowboys balanced attack to keep them in the game against Pat Knight's Red Raiders. I think Byron Eaton will step it up for OK State, and they'll move on.
Prediction: Oklahoma State 60-57
Colorado (11-19, 3-13) vs. Baylor (21-9, 9-7): Baylor needs this win to feel better about their NCAA chances. A loss here to the cellar dweller of the Big XII would be killer. Curtis Jerrills won't let it happen, and Baylor should move on to face Oklahoma.
Prediction: Baylor 64-50
Missouri (16-15, 6-10) vs. Nebraska (18-11, 7-9): Neither team has had a great season and this game could be a sloppy one. Nebraska has a talented center in Aleks Maric, and he'll be the best player on the floor. Mizzou's gone through a tough season that included dismissing their leading scorer from the team.
Prediction: Nebraska 64-63
Iowa State (14-17, 4-12) vs. Texas A&M (22-9, 8-8): The Aggies are right on the bubble and have to win this one, and possibly one more. A&M just doesn't have a top scorer to lead them like Acie Law did last season. I think they win this, but the next round could be trouble.
Prediction: Texas A&M 57-55
Big 10, SEC, and Pac-10 will all be posted around 10:30 am EST.
Syracuse's Bubble Has Been Popped
The Syracuse Orange put together one heck of a disappointing effort against Villanova in the Big East Tournament first round yesterday afternoon. Up 28-19 with 1:17 left in the first half, the collapse began as 'Nova scored 8 points in that last span to close the 9 point gap to 1. The second half was all Villanova, as they went up by as much as 20 en route to a 82-63 win. The Orange are out, the Wildcats are right in the thick of things. They're in just one of many good games today, as the major conferences begin their conference tournaments.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)