The Rivalry
Duke vs North Carolina is the best rivalry not only in college basketball but all of the sports. Furthermore, the ability of Roy Williams and Mike Krzyzewski to continue to have their teams deliver in this game consistently is a credit to their continued success at their programs. The margin of error in this game is so thin making the stakes higher and higher on each possession creating a superior amount of pressure.
The point guard battle displayed on Saturday night was terrific with the play of Cole Anthony and Tre Jones. Next, the sequence of plays that resulted in the overtime with Jones’ free throw miss then mid-range pull up was crazy. So too was the game-winner by Wendell Moore plays that will go down as some of the greatest plays in this rivalry. Now, the impact of this game for Duke sets them up at 20-3 with a huge opportunity on Monday against Florida State. They will be looking to build their case for a no. 1 seed. As for North Carolina, this has been a very difficult season leaving them at 10-13. If they don’t win the ACC Tournament title they will miss the NCAA tournament.
Fats Russell
Gonzaga
The offensive display by Gonzaga against St. Mary’s was very impressive and bode well for the Zags moving forward. This team has the best frontcourt in the country with Killian Tillie, Filip Petrusev and Drew Timme who all bring different aspects to this Gonzaga team. First off, Tille is the most skilled with his ability to play inside and out along with, his passing ability. Next, Petrusev is very athletic inside for Gonzaga and his overall activity makes him a matchup problem. As for Timme, he is very smooth all around and always gets very good positioning to finish around the basket. Next, Joel Ayayi gives them an athletic piece on the perimeter who can defend at a high level and get to the basket. Also, Corey Kispert is a very good scorer and specifically a shooter who stretches the defense for a Gonzaga. Lastly, the point guard duties by Ryan Woolridge and Admon Gilder add steadiness and consistency. Gonzaga is built for a possible National Championship run in March.
Seton Hall
James Bouknight
A star is developing in Storrs, Connecticut and his name is James Bouknight. Bouknight has the ability to take over games with his ability to attack the basket at will with his great size. Next, his mid-range game is very solid with his ball-handling to get separation for his shot consistently. Further, he is continuing to develop a 3-point shot that will come and when that does he’ll be a complete scorer. He understands the moment of the game and rises to the occasion as he did against Cincinnati scoring 23 points. Danny Hurley has his guy to build around.
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