Oklahoma State
Oklahoma State continues to put together a strong tournament resume after their win at West Virginia. The win at West Virginia was without Cade Cunningham and Issac Likekele, which shows the overall growth of the roster. Mike Boyton has done a tremendous job with one of the youngest teams in the country. The eight quads 1 win are among the best in the nation and Oklahoma State should be no worse than a no. 4 seed. Kalib Boone and Avery Anderson have shown growth being able to contribute in major ways. Rondel Walker and Matthew-Alexander Moncrieffe’s development give Oklahoma State a multitude of options. Oklahoma State will look to keep the momentum going this week in the Big 12 Tournament.
Major Injuries
This past week, the major injury of Collin Gillespie and the injury of Justin Moore is critical for Villanova. The health of Moore will be imperative for their chances in the Big East and NCAA Tournament. Additionally, a couple of injuries in the Big Ten could be vital with Joe Wieskamp and Eli Brooks both injuring their ankles. Wieskamp is a focal point of the Iowa offense and is their best perimeter defender. As for Brooks, he is a very good defender and Michigan has two losses that have come without Brooks. The overall health for teams entering the NCAA Tournament will be crucial for deep runs.
Illinois
Illinois is showing everyone what they are capable of being with a road win at Michigan without Ayo Dosunmu and winning at Ohio State. Furthermore, the ability of Dosunmu, who is the best closer in college basketball, will go a long way in the NCAA Tournament. Illinois also has a matchup problem in Kofi Cockburn inside and his ability to control a game. Andre Curbelo sets the pace for this team with his ability to get others involved and operate this offense. Trent Frazier is a veteran who will be able to take over at times making big shots when needed. Having Adam Miller on the wing will be key with his shooting ability and size. As long as the Illinois defense continues to show up they have all the makings for a deep tournament run.
Loyola-Chicago
Loyola-Chicago will be looking to recapture the tournament magic of 2018. This team will be very different with starting with their defense being one of the best in the country. Furthermore, if Loyola-Chicago gets good offense and perimeter shooting they have the capabilities for a second-weekend type run. Cameron Krutwig’s passing ability is really key for the Loyal-Chicago offense success. Also, Braden Norris and Kieth Clemons will be vital, as guard play leads the way in the NCAA Tournament. Porter Moser has Loyola-Chicago set up to make another run in this NCAA Tournament.
Baylor
Baylor is starting to return to their original form with strong statement wins at West Virginia and Texas Tech. Their firepower offensively cannot be understated with the backcourt duo of Jared Butler and Davion Mitchell, along with, having MaCio Teague on the wing with his ability to get to the rim and make perimeter jumpers consistently. Having Adam Flagler and Matthew Mayer off the bench just adds to their potential. The defensive end is just as elite and will be the key if they win the National Championship. Therefore, the versatility of Mark Vital is massive for Baylor having him be able to matchup on anyone. Baylor has the ability on both ends to be a National Championship team.
Images Courtesy of, The Athletic
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