2016 NCAA Tournament Preview: East Region
- Mar 16, 2016
- 3 min read
Gerry Broome/Associated Press
The 2016 NCAA Tournament is now underway with play-in game action. With that said, let's take a closer look at the field this year. We already broke down the Midwest Region. Next up is the East region, which features multiple teams that could make a deep run. North Carolina should be considered the favorite, but there are plenty of obstacles in their path. Here's what to watch for once things get going on Thursday.
Players to Watch:
F Brice Johnson, North Carolina - Despite his slender frame, Johnson is one of the premier post players in all of college basketball. He's a double-double machine and is active on both ends of the floor.
G Tyler Ulis, Kentucky - Ulis is arguably the best point guard in the land. He makes everybody better around him and plays much bigger than he looks.
G Kris Dunn, Providence - Dunn is quite arguably the best two-way guard in America. He has an uncanny knack for putting the ball in the basket and he doesn't lack in the confidence department.
G Yogi Ferrell, Indiana - Ferrell is a guy who often flies under the radar, but talent-wise, belongs at the top of everybody's list. He's a strong leader and a big-time player.
G Demetrius Jackson, Notre Dame - Even more overlooked than Ferrell, is Jackson. He's been in a bit of a slump lately, but if he can break out, the Irish may be able to make a run.
Best First Round Matchup: No. 6 Notre Dame vs. No. 11 Michigan/Tulsa
Michigan and Tulsa are set to do battle tonight for the final spot in the field of 64, with the winner advancing to face Notre Dame. The Wolverines should be considered the favorite to win that matchup and I expect them to do just that. That will set up a tilt with the Fighting Irish. Michigan made their way into the tournament by way of a strong showing in the Big Ten Tournament. They have a number of big wins under their belt and if they get hot from deep, anything is possible. The Irish, on the other hand, are coming off a disappointing loss to North Carolina in the ACC title game, so they will be motivated.
Potential Upset: No. 12 Chattanooga over No. 5 Indiana
The Hoosiers won the Big Ten regular season title, proving that they are a very talented bunch. However, after digging deep into their first round matchup, Chattanooga could possibly give them some fits. Chattanooga is adept at forcing turnovers, which is actually something Indiana doesn't do a whole lot, so something will have to give. The Mocs have a balanced offensive attack, with eight players averaging at least six points per game.
Regional Final: No.1 North Carolina over No. 3 West Virginia
I have the Tar Heels advancing to the Elite Eight after knocking off No. 4 Kentucky in the Sweet 16, while the Mountaineers take down No. 2 Xavier. North Carolina is just the best team in the East Region, so it would come as no surprise to see them in the regional final. West Virginia seems to be a hot pick, mainly because they are a strong defensive team. The Mountaineers press like no other, which will give all of their opponents some problems. As good as their defense is, they won't be able to slow down the Tar Heels, who will advance to the Final Four.
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