Quote Originally Posted by Woochifer

But, I don't see NC State getting out of the first round because Cal presents a huge matchup problem with their size and wingspan inside. Cal gave UCLA the biggest problems of any opponent this year. NC State's only chance might be from outside, because I don't think they'll be able to stop Leon Powe, who's the most dominant player in Pac-10 and led the conference in scoring and rebounding. Cal's main downfall is their inconsistency, which led to some ugly losses to teams they should have beaten handily. But, if they play their game, they can beat anyone.
None of the lower seeds in the Atlanta Regional really jumped out at me. (Until A&M spanked Syracuse.) I think Duke, Texas and LSU are the most likely teams to make it out. After that, 5-10 looked pretty even to me and 12-16 I didn't give much of a chance. (Until A&M spanked Syracuse!)

I don't know much about Cal. If they have a tough perimeter defense then they should handle NC State, but I've seen a couple games where NC State's perimeter shooters couldn't miss.

That Oakland Regional seems wide open as well. I think a border war between Memphis and Arkansas would be interesting. I think the fact that a storied program like UCLA being back is interesting. Just look who's advanced so far and who could be left in the top half after tomorrow. From what I've read nobody wants to play Kansas or UCLA right now. Memphis is ripe for a picking. Morrison's not going to let the Zags lose and Arkansas' recent chemistry is probably the best kept secret in that bracket. The Tide's not deep at all only playing 7, but if they stay out of foul trouble and their point guard Ronald Steele (who can take over a game, btw) can get a couple minutes rest in the first half, they can compete with anybody. Indiana's playing for their coach. I don't know how far emotion can carry them.

(I keep saying every year that I'm going to a first or second round site or to a regional. Atlanta or even the first round at Jacksonville wouldn't have been too far.)

So far, it looks like the selection committee did a good job.