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The first two rounds of the NCAA Men’s basketball tournament have concluded and true to most predictions, the top eight teams still stand strong, even though they have had their moments of vulnerability.
Here are the Sweet 16 teams and their respective match-ups.
Duke (1) vs. Virginia Tech(4)
The overall number one seed Duke survived a scare from the University of Central Florida. Virginia Tech may have beaten Duke, but that was during the absence of Zion Williamson who was out due to injury.
Duke can still rely on their top 10 ranked three-point shooting to keep up with the Virginia Tech. Their second match-up this season will be on March 29.
Gonzaga(1) vs. Florida State(4)
No.1 ranked Gonzaga erased all doubts on their top seeding by displaying the best offense in the NCAA. Brandon Clarke and Rui Hachimura will lead the charge against Florida State on March 28. The Seminoles proved that they are “star-killers” by eliminating Murray State.
UNC(1) vs. Auburn(5)
North Carolina had impressive wins in the first two rounds and have looked sharp. Their NBA prospects Coby White and Nassir Little are peaking at the right time, with Luke Maye as the senior stabilizer. Auburn is a tough team and may give the Tar Heels some problems on March 29.
House of Highlights
Virginia(1) vs. Oregon(12)
The Virginia Cavaliers were victims of the greatest upset in NCAA history (first time a no.1 seed lost to 16th seed in the first round) last season and they will not want a repeat this season. On March 28, Oregon will have the least pressure among the Sweet 16 as the lone Cinderella hopeful but should not be taken lightly.
Michigan(2) vs. Texas Tech(3)
The Michigan Wolverines are arguably the best defensive team in the NCAA. They will want to repeat last year’s run to the finals. They will face an equally dangerous Texas Tech squad led by NBA prospect Jarred Culver on March 28.
LSU(3) vs. Michigan State(2)
The Michigan State Spartans overcame nagging injuries to survive the opening rounds, thanks to Cassius Winston and tough defense. They take on a talented LSU Tiger squad that had tendencies to be outscored in the 2nd half. It will be a battle of top talent vs. top defense on March 29.
Kentucky(2) vs. Houston(3)
Longer armed with the top freshman class, the Kentucky Wildcats had close calls. They will miss the services of PJ Washington against Houston and will be cautious as they known Houston can spring a surprise.
Purdue(3) vs. Tennessee(2)
Tennessee slipped defensively and this was shown when they allowed Iowa to comeback. They face a Purdue team on March 28 that’s currently on a high from dethroning Villanova in convincing fashion.
