Blue chips:
Illinois
Beating Michigan State in the regular season match-up and going deeper in the Big Ten Tournament, the Illini edged out the Spartans for the top seed in their regional bracket. Returning nine of ten players from last year's squad, this year represents Illinois best chance to reach the Final Four since their 1989 appearance. The Illini have great team depth, featuring a nine-man rotation, which should be helpful in mainlining their strength in deeper rounds of the tournament.Arizona
After upsetting number-one Stanford last week, the Wildcats enter the Tournament having won 14 of their last 16 games. Lute Olson is now taking his team to its 17th consecutive NCAA appearance, and the experience will pay off. Featuring the most balanced Wildcat team since Olson took over the program, the Wildcats feature one of the most athletic teams in the Tournament. Their transition game and defensive skills should pose a large obstacle in the Illini's run at the Championship.Cinderella Teams:
Tennessee
The Volunteers could challenge the Illini early in the Tournament. While many feel that this team has overachieved for its talent level, Tennessee has resembled a top-five team at times this year. After jumping out to a 16-1 record and a number-four ranking, the Vols hit a large slump this season, loosing eight of their last 13 games, including five straight within the SEC. Yet playing solid basketball in their final week of the season, the Vols could make a deep run into the Tournament if they get back on track. With great speed, quickness, and jumping ability, the Vols could beat any team in a shooting match.Syracuse
Overcoming expectations all season, the Orangemen hope to continue surprising critics. While Seton Hall and Notre Dame were supposed to be Georgetown's greatest rivals this season, critics spent all season awaiting Syracuse's meltdown. Defying odds, the Orangemen continued to prevail. Lacking depth, the team's best quality is its athleticism and heart. Therefore, while they won't make a deep run into the Tournament, they could cause a major upset against fourth seed Kansas in the second round.Butler
After playing Florida tough in last year's NCAA Tournament, Butler's defensive intensity could help them become this year's Cinderella team. The Bulldogs carry an eight-game winning streak into the Tournament, with the defense held opponents to a 49.3 point total in the MCC tournament. With great defense, the Bulldogs closely resemble Gonzaga, last year's surprise Sweet 16 team.Players to Watch:
Loren Woods, Arizona
With his statistics dropping off from last year, the Wildcats need their senior center to return to last season's form for them to make a deep run in the Tournament. Blocking fewer passes and missing more tip-ins this year, the team needs Woods to become a greater offensive presence this year. Finishing the season with a 22-point game against Cal, Woods seems ready to return to his past form.Tony Harris, Tennessee
Throughout the season, the Vols' record has closely reflected the play of their senior point guard Tony Harris. Early in the season, Harris was playing the best he had in his career, and helped his team become virtually unbeatable. Entering a late season slump, Tennessee's record fell to 5-8 in the second half of the season. If Harris is able to return to his early season playing style, the Vols could present a challenge to any team.Frank Williams, Illinois
Earning Big Ten Player of the Year honors, Williams proved that he is one of the nation's top point guards. Along side Duke's Jason Williams, Williams has had one of his greatest seasons this year. A late-game presence, the Illini can always rely on Williams to take the tough shots at the end of the game.Summary:
The Midwestern bracket will feature the NCAA's first play-in team, as Northwestern State and Winthrop will both battle for the chance to take on Illinois in the first round. Neither team should be able to pose any problem to the Illini, though. Featuring great depth, the winner of the Midwest is harder to predict than any other region.
