The NCAA Tournament is approaching, and matchups are set to be decisive. Styles will clash, defences will be tested, and individual players could swing the outcome of games.
Howard’s Defence vs UMBC’s Star Guard
Howard is set to face UMBC. Howard’s defence features switchable wing defenders such as Bryce Harris, Ose Okojie and Alex Cotton. These players could create a difficult matchup for UMBC’s star guard, DJ Armstrong. While UMBC might have the edge with the best player, Howard’s defence is considered their strongest asset. The pick is for Howard to advance.
Other First Four Matchups
Texas is set to play NC State. Texas uses drop coverage. This is considered a good strategy against Quadir Copeland and NC State’s shooters. Dailyn Swain, a Texas wing, should perform well against the Wolfpack. The teams played previously in November, with Texas narrowly winning despite shooting exceptionally well from three-point range. The pick is NC State.
Lehigh will face Prairie View. Lehigh has Nasir Whitlock. Prairie View does not. The pick is Lehigh.
SMU is set to play Miami (Ohio). Eian Elmer, a star wing for the RedHawks, needs a strong defensive performance against SMU’s Jaron Pierre for Miami (Ohio) to progress. SMU might be without BJ Edwards. However, they have Jaden Toombs, a freshman forward. He could be a difference-maker. SMU is expected to control the paint and secure a narrow victory. The pick is SMU.
Duke’s Size Advantage
Duke is one of the largest teams in the sport. Their size presents a challenge for mid-major opponents. Even without Caleb Foster and Patrick Ngongba, Duke’s rotation includes Cayden Boozer at 6-foot-4 and 205 pounds. Siena has talent, including Gavin Doty, Justice Shoats and Brendan Coyle. However, Duke is expected to win.
Ohio State vs TCU
Ohio State has a stronger backcourt with Bruce Thornton and Juni Mobley. They are considered more talented than Jayden Pierre and Brock Harding of TCU. If Ohio State’s guards perform well, TCU could struggle. However, TCU matches up well in other areas. David Punch and Xavier Edmonds form a strong frontcourt. TCU excels at rebounding and has a strong defence.
Ohio State has performed better recently. Since January 1, Ohio State is ranked 19th nationally, while TCU is 49th. However, TCU’s defence is strong and will force difficult shots.
St. John’s vs Northern Iowa
Rick Pitino employs an aggressive, full-pressure defence that aims to create turnovers.