Matt Norlander of CBSSports.com has listed his five most enticing potential matchups in the NCAA Tournament in order. Kentucky is on the list, and it’s not the potential matchup with Louisville in the Sweet 16.
1. West Region — Arizona vs. Creighton in the Elite Eight: I mean, how could you not want this one? This would be an Elite Eight game that would pit the No. 1 team in defensive efficiency (Arizona) against the No. 1 team in offensive efficiency. Both clubs have at times looked elite this season, Arizona for much longer stretches. The Wildcats have the better athletes, a solid point guard and a coach destined to make multiple Final Four trips.
Creighton has the Player of the Year in Doug McDermott and a team full of guys who know how to shoot, spread the ball around and kill you with spacing. This is the Elite Eight game I want more than any other.
2. Midwest Region — Wichita State vs. Kentucky in the Round of 32: It would be a battle between the two most polarizing programs in the country. Yes, Wichita State has oddly earned that title this season. Kentucky has it forever, just ahead of Duke. You have a lot of people that would love to see Kentucky lose to Kansas State, but if you’re in that group, why not wait and see if WSU can out the Wildcats instead? Wouldn’t that be more enjoyable?
And if you’re a Kentucky fan, how badly do you want to take out the Shockers right now? There’s no question that game would be more hyped than any other in the Round of 32. Must-see, for certain. But first UK has to get past K-State (Wichita State will romp its No. 16 seed).
3. South Region — Florida vs. VCU in the Sweet 16: Here’s a matchup that would be really funny. Remember, Shaka Smart was once an assistant under Billy Donovan. (Side note: If Donovan opted to leave for the NBA in the next few years, would Shaka take the Florida job if asked? I say yes.) As for the game, hey, the Gators are strong, but could they handle Havoc? It would be a
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