Utah State
Sam Merrill delivered an epic Mountain West Tournament run that gave Utah State the automatic bid. The win over San Diego State gives Craig Smith back to back conference tournament titles. They will be a team nobody wants to draw to start the NCAA tournament with the dynamic duo of Sam Merrill and Neemias Queta. Also, the complimentary pieces of Justin Bean and Diogo Brito who will be vital to their tournament success. Another key will be the health of Abel Porter if they get him at close to 100 percent they will have a multitude of options on the perimeter. Utah State is a team to watch as they enter the NCAA tournament with a game-changing player with Sam Merrill.
Liberty
Texas
Shaka Smart had this Texas team heading in the right direction until they didn’t show up against Oklahoma State with a blow out loss. They must beat Texas Tech in the quarterfinals game of the Big 12 Tournament which very well could be considered an elimination game. Also, if Texas does not get to the NCAA Tournament this could be the end for Shaka Smart’s tenure at Texas. They will need an exceptional performance from Matt Coleman leading the way for Texas. They need consistent play from the frontcourt in Kai Jones and Royce Hamm. A huge week is ahead for Texas if they want to continue their season in the NCAA Tournament.
Dayton
Aaron Henry and Rocket Watts
Watts and Henry are emerging as major contributors to Michigan State and are changing the trajectory of this team. Further, the defensive ability of Aaron Henry has been as consistent as any guard in the Big Ten. Along with his rebounding ability and now making plays offensively on a consistent basis. He is playing complete basketball on both ends of the floor. As for Rocket Watts, he is turning into a big-time shooter for Michigan State next to Cassius Winston. His ability to score the basketball is taking pressure off of Winston and is causing defenses major trouble. Also, Rocket Watts is capable of handling the basketball which will be key down the stretch of the season. The improved play of Aaron Henry and Rocket Watts has Michigan State among the National Championship favorites yet again.
Images Courtesy of, Deseret News, Liberty University, Mid-Major Madness
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