Overview: Perhaps no region is better at the top then the West, with little separation between top-seed Connecticut and second-seed Memphis. Both of the tournament’s two 30-win teams – the Tigers (31-3) and 11-seed Utah State (30-4) reside in the West Region. The West also features an interesting first round rematch from 2008 – the 8-9 game between BYU and Texas A&M. In 2008, the Aggies beat the Cougars 67-62 in the first round.
Spoiler: Purdue finished tied for second in Big Ten, which sent seven teams into the tournament. After losing three of four to end the regular season, Purdue captured the Big Ten Tournament title and may be peaking at the right time. The Boilermakers have three players averaging in double figures, including now healthy guard Robbie Hummel (12.7 ppg). That coupled with a defense that allows only 59.1 point per game could lead to a deep tournament run for the West’s fifth-seed.
Under the Radar: California has lost four of their last six headed into the tournament and their first round opponent, Maryland, overshadows the seven-seed. But California averages 75.0 points per game and has two great guards in Jerome Randle (18.4 ppg) and Patrick Christopher (14.6). Bears head coach Mike Montgomery has lots tournament experience and will have California ready to go.
Upset City: Has a 30-win team ever received less notoriety than Utah State? That will change if the Aggies can upend Dominic James-less Marquette in the first round. The Aggies won the WAC and are led by forward Gary Wilkinson (17.1 ppg, 6.9 rpg). If Wilkinson can get going inside enough Aggies fans make the four and a half hour drive to Boise, Utah State has a shot at dispatching Marquette.
Pick: Memphis has the depth to reach the Final Four for the second straight season, a nice blend of youth and experience. If the Tigers meet Connecticut in the regional final, that game could be one of the best of the tournament.
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