No. 2 Maryland vs. No. 9 North Carolina
This is the matchup we’ve all been waiting for, especially now that Marcus Paige will return for the Tar Heels. North Carolina’s frontline should be able to keep up with Robert Carter and Diamond Stone, but the real battle will be on the wing and whether UNC can keep Jake Laymen in check and allow Josh Jackson to be a difference maker for them.
Prediction: North Carolina 79, Maryland 76
No. 24 Cincinnati vs. Butler
Few teams in college basketball are more violently physical than Cincinnati, as they constantly punish opponents underneath and on the glass. Troy Caupain has taken the next step, but Kellen Dunham will be a handful for him and others on the Bearcats. If Butler wins, it will do so by negating the effects that Octavius Ellis can have for Cinci down low.
Prediction: Cincinnati 72, Butler 66
No. 3 Michigan State vs. Louisville
The Cardinal have flown completely under the radar this season, while the Spartans just continue rolling. Something has to give, right? If transfers Damion Lee and Trey Lewis can take advantage on the wing, that could free up Quentin Snider up at the PG spot to make an impact. However, as the question will always be, can anyone stop Denzel Valentine from making one winning play after another?
Prediction: Michigan State 79, Louisville 71
No. 6 Duke vs. No. 13 Indiana
This looked a bit better, on paper, a few weeks ago. At this point, it’s clear that Indiana doesn’t have the fortitude to get defensive stops and lock down when needed. But for Duke, there are still questions about their ability to be consistent down low. Still, Duke might hang 100 points here, especially with this game being at home.
Prediction: Duke 89, Indiana 76
