Watch Flair's interview starting at 3:33, great stuff...YA'LL PAY HOMAGE TO THE MAN!!!!WOOOOOOOO!!!!
Monday, March 31, 2008
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Elite Eight Predictions (Part Two)
SOUTH REGION:
(1) MEMPHIS VS (2) TEXAS
JOEY DORSEY VS CONNOR ATCHLEY
ROBERT DOZIER VS DAMION JAMES
CHRIS DOUGLAS-ROBERTS VS JUSTIN MASON
ANTONIO ANDERSON VS AJ ABRAMS
DERRICK ROSE VS DJ AUGUSTIN
UM keys to victory- They need to pressure and disrupt Abrams and Augustin. Texas uses ball screens to give the handlers open space but the Tigers need to fight through the picks and screens to stay in front of the Longhorn backcourt. Offensively they need to keep doing what they are doing. Rose needs to have a big game against Augustin because when he is on, he gets his teammates involved and this Memphis team plays at another level. Robert Dozier vs Damion James is the key matchup because if Dozier can score and get him in foul trouble, then Texas could have problems.
UT keys to victory- Great guard play once again. DJ Augustin is the heart and soul of this team. He needs to be on his game because if he is not, Texas could be in for a long night. AJ Abrams will have a taller defender on him and will need to use his speed and elusiveness to create space for his shot. Justin Mason is the glue of this team and will have to limit the points for Chris Douglas-Roberts. In the frontcourt, James and Connor Atchley must rebound and defend against the more athletic Memphis players. Atchley's ability to spread the floor with the three will be important.
PREDICTION: TEXAS 84 VS MEMPHIS 82
MIDWEST REGION:
(1) KANSAS VS (10) DAVIDSON
DARNELL JACKSON VS THOMAS SANDER
DARRELL ARTHUR VS ANDREW LOVEDALE
BRANDON RUSH VS MAX PAULHUS GOSSELIN
RUSSELL ROBINSON VS STEPHEN CURRY
MARIO CHALMERS VS JASON RICHARDS
KU keys to victory- Play like you have been here before. The Jayhawks have no reason to lose this game. They have size, talent, experience, and the burning desire to go to the Final Four. Arthur, Jackson, and Sasha Kaun have a big time size advantage over Davidson and will need to use it. Defensively, Robinson needs to do everything he can to stop Stephen Curry. If Kansas is focused and ready to play, they will be heading to San Antonio
DC keys to victory- Don't think you are Cinderella because this game is winnable. They need to follow the same blueprint as they have this entire tournament. Curry needs to get his and Jason Richards needs to be solid handling and distributing the basketball. Lovedale and Sander will have their hands full but if they can play tough D, Davidson can stay in this game. In the end, Kansas may have just too much for the Wildcats.
PREDICTION: KANSAS 84 VS DAVIDSON 72
(1) MEMPHIS VS (2) TEXAS
JOEY DORSEY VS CONNOR ATCHLEY
ROBERT DOZIER VS DAMION JAMES
CHRIS DOUGLAS-ROBERTS VS JUSTIN MASON
ANTONIO ANDERSON VS AJ ABRAMS
DERRICK ROSE VS DJ AUGUSTIN
UM keys to victory- They need to pressure and disrupt Abrams and Augustin. Texas uses ball screens to give the handlers open space but the Tigers need to fight through the picks and screens to stay in front of the Longhorn backcourt. Offensively they need to keep doing what they are doing. Rose needs to have a big game against Augustin because when he is on, he gets his teammates involved and this Memphis team plays at another level. Robert Dozier vs Damion James is the key matchup because if Dozier can score and get him in foul trouble, then Texas could have problems.
UT keys to victory- Great guard play once again. DJ Augustin is the heart and soul of this team. He needs to be on his game because if he is not, Texas could be in for a long night. AJ Abrams will have a taller defender on him and will need to use his speed and elusiveness to create space for his shot. Justin Mason is the glue of this team and will have to limit the points for Chris Douglas-Roberts. In the frontcourt, James and Connor Atchley must rebound and defend against the more athletic Memphis players. Atchley's ability to spread the floor with the three will be important.
PREDICTION: TEXAS 84 VS MEMPHIS 82
MIDWEST REGION:
(1) KANSAS VS (10) DAVIDSON
DARNELL JACKSON VS THOMAS SANDER
DARRELL ARTHUR VS ANDREW LOVEDALE
BRANDON RUSH VS MAX PAULHUS GOSSELIN
RUSSELL ROBINSON VS STEPHEN CURRY
MARIO CHALMERS VS JASON RICHARDS
KU keys to victory- Play like you have been here before. The Jayhawks have no reason to lose this game. They have size, talent, experience, and the burning desire to go to the Final Four. Arthur, Jackson, and Sasha Kaun have a big time size advantage over Davidson and will need to use it. Defensively, Robinson needs to do everything he can to stop Stephen Curry. If Kansas is focused and ready to play, they will be heading to San Antonio
DC keys to victory- Don't think you are Cinderella because this game is winnable. They need to follow the same blueprint as they have this entire tournament. Curry needs to get his and Jason Richards needs to be solid handling and distributing the basketball. Lovedale and Sander will have their hands full but if they can play tough D, Davidson can stay in this game. In the end, Kansas may have just too much for the Wildcats.
PREDICTION: KANSAS 84 VS DAVIDSON 72
Saturday, March 29, 2008
Elite Eight Predictions
EAST REGION:
(1) NORTH CAROLINA VS (3) LOUISVILLE
TYLER HANSBROUGH VS DAVID PADGETT
DEON THOMPSON VS JUAN PALACIOS
MARCUS GINYARD VS TERRENCE WILLIAMS
WAYNE ELLINGTON VS JERRY SMITH
TY LAWSON VS ANDRE McGEE
UNC keys to victory- Keep doing what your doing. They need to push the ball and make sure Ty Lawson is not in foul trouble. Ginyard needs to have a superb defensive effort against Terrence Williams because his penetration sets up Jerry Smith and the rest of Louisville from the perimeter. Hansbrough needs to stay in the post and battle with David Padgett because he needs to have a big game. Danny Green needs another stellar performance from three and also playing tough D. The experience and explosiveness could put them over the top.
UL keys to victory- David Padgett must draw Hansbrough away from the hoop. Louisville will look to spread UNC on defense to allow for dribble penetration and one-on-one matchups in the post. Louisville has a great chance to win and they can't panic of they get down early because they can win this game. Rick Pitino has big game coaching experience and needs to make sure his team is settled down because they are emotional and feed off that intensity. Win the individual battles and win the war.
PREDICTION: NORTH CAROLINA 86 VS LOUISVILLE 84
WEST REGION:
(1) UCLA VS (3) XAVIER
KEVIN LOVE VS JOSH DUNCAN
LUC RICHARD MBAH A MOUTE VS DERRICK BROWN
JOSH SHIPP VS C.J. ANDERSON
RUSSELL WESTBROOK VS STANLEY BURRELL
DARREN COLLISON VS DREW LAVENDER
UCLA keys to victory- Play tough, play smart and don't fall behind. UCLA has gotten away with starting slow this tournament but they may not be as lucky if they fall early to Xavier. A strong start is essential and getting Kevin Love established against the undersized Musketeer front line will be important. Josh Shipp has been cold but is starting to warm up after his 14 point showing against Western Kentucky. The backcourt of Collison and Russell Westbrook need to cut back on turnovers and Collison needs to be especially careful guarding dyanmo Drew Lavender. If UCLA play the way they are capable of and don't fall behind, Ben Howland could be looking at a Final Four three-peat.
XU keys to victory- Well, since I forgot to finish this and UCLA has a seven point lead. I say they play tough D and not force the ball on offense.
PREDICTION(KIND OF): UCLA 70 VS XAVIER 63
(1) NORTH CAROLINA VS (3) LOUISVILLE
TYLER HANSBROUGH VS DAVID PADGETT
DEON THOMPSON VS JUAN PALACIOS
MARCUS GINYARD VS TERRENCE WILLIAMS
WAYNE ELLINGTON VS JERRY SMITH
TY LAWSON VS ANDRE McGEE
UNC keys to victory- Keep doing what your doing. They need to push the ball and make sure Ty Lawson is not in foul trouble. Ginyard needs to have a superb defensive effort against Terrence Williams because his penetration sets up Jerry Smith and the rest of Louisville from the perimeter. Hansbrough needs to stay in the post and battle with David Padgett because he needs to have a big game. Danny Green needs another stellar performance from three and also playing tough D. The experience and explosiveness could put them over the top.
UL keys to victory- David Padgett must draw Hansbrough away from the hoop. Louisville will look to spread UNC on defense to allow for dribble penetration and one-on-one matchups in the post. Louisville has a great chance to win and they can't panic of they get down early because they can win this game. Rick Pitino has big game coaching experience and needs to make sure his team is settled down because they are emotional and feed off that intensity. Win the individual battles and win the war.
PREDICTION: NORTH CAROLINA 86 VS LOUISVILLE 84
WEST REGION:
(1) UCLA VS (3) XAVIER
KEVIN LOVE VS JOSH DUNCAN
LUC RICHARD MBAH A MOUTE VS DERRICK BROWN
JOSH SHIPP VS C.J. ANDERSON
RUSSELL WESTBROOK VS STANLEY BURRELL
DARREN COLLISON VS DREW LAVENDER
UCLA keys to victory- Play tough, play smart and don't fall behind. UCLA has gotten away with starting slow this tournament but they may not be as lucky if they fall early to Xavier. A strong start is essential and getting Kevin Love established against the undersized Musketeer front line will be important. Josh Shipp has been cold but is starting to warm up after his 14 point showing against Western Kentucky. The backcourt of Collison and Russell Westbrook need to cut back on turnovers and Collison needs to be especially careful guarding dyanmo Drew Lavender. If UCLA play the way they are capable of and don't fall behind, Ben Howland could be looking at a Final Four three-peat.
XU keys to victory- Well, since I forgot to finish this and UCLA has a seven point lead. I say they play tough D and not force the ball on offense.
PREDICTION(KIND OF): UCLA 70 VS XAVIER 63
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Sweet Sixteen Predictions
EAST REGION:
(1) NORTH CAROLINA VS (4) WASHINGTON STATE
UNC keys to victory-They need to play their way. They like an up tempo game where the outlet goes to sophomore PG Ty Lawson and he gets it to Marcus Ginyard, Danny Green, and Wayne Ellington on the perimeter or he gets it ahead to his big men in Tyler Hansbrough, Deon Thompson, and Alex Stepheson. If they got bogged down into a halfcourt game then Washington State has a fighting chance. If UNC uses their superb athletes and speed, they should not have a problem.
WSU keys to victory- They have to force their way on UNC because if they don't it will be a long night. They need to play excellent defense on the ball, meaning Derrick Low or Tyler Rochestie on Ty Lawson. They need to force him into turnovers and not let him push the ball. Aron Baynes needs to push around and out-muscle Tyler Hansbrough in the post. If the help D works out on Hansbrough, that would go a long way to winning this game.
Key Matchup- Ty Lawson vs Derrick Low. Whoever wins this battle will be an important factor in the pace and outcome of this game. If Lawson runs, good night Cougars but if Low frustrates him and scores as well, Washington State could pull the upset.
PREDICTION: NORTH CAROLINA 85 VS WASHINGTON STATE 70
(2) TENNESSEE VS (3) LOUISVILLE
UT keys to victory- Don't get demolished in the paint. Big men Duke Crews and Wayne Chism need to defend well in the post against the dearth of big men Louisville has in David Padgett, Earl Clark, Juan Palacios, and Derrick Caracter. If they can limit Louisville's point production in the post, then they can focus on their offense. Chris Lofton needs to find open shots and Bruce Pearl needs a big time game from his PG, whether it be JP Prince or Ramar Smith. If either one turnovers the ball more than getting assists, it will be a long night.
UL keys to victory- Play their style. They need to get open shots, break the UT press, and force turnovers defensively. This game is shaping up to be a track meet but on paper Louisville is the better overall team. They have size, speed, and experience at every position. They need to find David Padgett in the half-court game and make sure he finds the cutters and shooters. Edgar Sosa needs to stop thinking about his poor and inconsistent play this season because without quality minutes from him, this team may not win.
Key matchup- Earl Clark vs Tennessee forwards. He is the most versatile player on this team and if he has a big game, Louisville will win. He needs to get in the paint and cause problems for Chism and Crews.
PREDICTION: LOUISVILLE 84 VS TENNESSEE 78
WEST REGION:
(1) UCLA VS (12) WESTERN KENTUCKY
UCLA keys to victory- Play the way they can. Get Josh Shipp confidence and Kevin Love touches in the post. They should not a problem with this team unless they are not focused. Ben Howland will not let this team get surprised by WKU because their ultimate goal is the national title. Play UCLA ball and the game should be in cruise early in the second half.
WKY keys to victory- Don't be afraid. If they don't lie down because they are going up against UCLA then they could be in this game for a while. They need to find the open shots and not force anything because UCLA can play fast and slow. Get Courtney Lee his touches and let his teammates play off it. Knock down half of their threes and they have a fighting chance.
Key matchup- Kevin Love vs WKU post players. The Pac-10 Player of the Year needs to have his way early and often. Once he establishes his dominance in the paint and his teammates work off that, goodnight.
PREDICTION: UCLA 75 VS WESTERN KENTUCKY 61
(3) XAVIER VS (7) WEST VIRGINIA
XU keys to victory- Pressure the ball. They need to get after Joe Alexander, Alex Ruoff, and Joe Mazzulla. Ruoff is a great shooter but if they stick to him then he could have a long knight. They are the superior defensive squad and need to remember that. Get off to an early lead and it can be protected. An early deficit may be harder to play with. They need to find the shooters and if the defense clicks, the offense will follow.
WVU keys to victory- Get open shots for Alex Ruoff. The team feeds off his big shots as well as the tough play of Joe Alexander. The two lead this team emotionally and statistically so they can't be stifled by Xavier's pressure or they won't win. On defense, they need to contain the penetration of Drew Lavender and the steady hand of Stanley Burrell. Xavier is a balanced offensive team so a complete defensive effort for 40 mintues is needed.
Key matchup- Alex Ruoff vs Stanley Burrell- The winner of this matchup will determine the winner of the game. If Ruoff is not spreading the D, then Alexander will not have the same seams and one-on-one matchups. Burrell needs to be the leader that he is and shut down Ruoff.
PREDICTION: XAVIER 79 VS WEST VIRGINIA 72
(1) NORTH CAROLINA VS (4) WASHINGTON STATE
UNC keys to victory-They need to play their way. They like an up tempo game where the outlet goes to sophomore PG Ty Lawson and he gets it to Marcus Ginyard, Danny Green, and Wayne Ellington on the perimeter or he gets it ahead to his big men in Tyler Hansbrough, Deon Thompson, and Alex Stepheson. If they got bogged down into a halfcourt game then Washington State has a fighting chance. If UNC uses their superb athletes and speed, they should not have a problem.
WSU keys to victory- They have to force their way on UNC because if they don't it will be a long night. They need to play excellent defense on the ball, meaning Derrick Low or Tyler Rochestie on Ty Lawson. They need to force him into turnovers and not let him push the ball. Aron Baynes needs to push around and out-muscle Tyler Hansbrough in the post. If the help D works out on Hansbrough, that would go a long way to winning this game.
Key Matchup- Ty Lawson vs Derrick Low. Whoever wins this battle will be an important factor in the pace and outcome of this game. If Lawson runs, good night Cougars but if Low frustrates him and scores as well, Washington State could pull the upset.
PREDICTION: NORTH CAROLINA 85 VS WASHINGTON STATE 70
(2) TENNESSEE VS (3) LOUISVILLE
UT keys to victory- Don't get demolished in the paint. Big men Duke Crews and Wayne Chism need to defend well in the post against the dearth of big men Louisville has in David Padgett, Earl Clark, Juan Palacios, and Derrick Caracter. If they can limit Louisville's point production in the post, then they can focus on their offense. Chris Lofton needs to find open shots and Bruce Pearl needs a big time game from his PG, whether it be JP Prince or Ramar Smith. If either one turnovers the ball more than getting assists, it will be a long night.
UL keys to victory- Play their style. They need to get open shots, break the UT press, and force turnovers defensively. This game is shaping up to be a track meet but on paper Louisville is the better overall team. They have size, speed, and experience at every position. They need to find David Padgett in the half-court game and make sure he finds the cutters and shooters. Edgar Sosa needs to stop thinking about his poor and inconsistent play this season because without quality minutes from him, this team may not win.
Key matchup- Earl Clark vs Tennessee forwards. He is the most versatile player on this team and if he has a big game, Louisville will win. He needs to get in the paint and cause problems for Chism and Crews.
PREDICTION: LOUISVILLE 84 VS TENNESSEE 78
WEST REGION:
(1) UCLA VS (12) WESTERN KENTUCKY
UCLA keys to victory- Play the way they can. Get Josh Shipp confidence and Kevin Love touches in the post. They should not a problem with this team unless they are not focused. Ben Howland will not let this team get surprised by WKU because their ultimate goal is the national title. Play UCLA ball and the game should be in cruise early in the second half.
WKY keys to victory- Don't be afraid. If they don't lie down because they are going up against UCLA then they could be in this game for a while. They need to find the open shots and not force anything because UCLA can play fast and slow. Get Courtney Lee his touches and let his teammates play off it. Knock down half of their threes and they have a fighting chance.
Key matchup- Kevin Love vs WKU post players. The Pac-10 Player of the Year needs to have his way early and often. Once he establishes his dominance in the paint and his teammates work off that, goodnight.
PREDICTION: UCLA 75 VS WESTERN KENTUCKY 61
(3) XAVIER VS (7) WEST VIRGINIA
XU keys to victory- Pressure the ball. They need to get after Joe Alexander, Alex Ruoff, and Joe Mazzulla. Ruoff is a great shooter but if they stick to him then he could have a long knight. They are the superior defensive squad and need to remember that. Get off to an early lead and it can be protected. An early deficit may be harder to play with. They need to find the shooters and if the defense clicks, the offense will follow.
WVU keys to victory- Get open shots for Alex Ruoff. The team feeds off his big shots as well as the tough play of Joe Alexander. The two lead this team emotionally and statistically so they can't be stifled by Xavier's pressure or they won't win. On defense, they need to contain the penetration of Drew Lavender and the steady hand of Stanley Burrell. Xavier is a balanced offensive team so a complete defensive effort for 40 mintues is needed.
Key matchup- Alex Ruoff vs Stanley Burrell- The winner of this matchup will determine the winner of the game. If Ruoff is not spreading the D, then Alexander will not have the same seams and one-on-one matchups. Burrell needs to be the leader that he is and shut down Ruoff.
PREDICTION: XAVIER 79 VS WEST VIRGINIA 72
Monday, March 24, 2008
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Sweet Sixteen Set
EAST REGIONAL:
(1) NORTH CAROLINA VS (4) WASHINGTON STATE
(2) TENNESSEE VS (3) LOUISVILLE
MIDWEST REGIONAL:
(1) KANSAS VS (12) VILLANOVA
(3) WISCONSIN VS (10) DAVIDSON
SOUTH REGIONAL:
(1) MEMPHIS VS (5) MICHIGAN STATE
(2) TEXAS VS (3) STANFORD
WEST REGIONAL:
(1) UCLA VS (12) WESTERN KENTUCKY
(3) XAVIER VS (7) WEST VIRGINIA
(1) NORTH CAROLINA VS (4) WASHINGTON STATE
(2) TENNESSEE VS (3) LOUISVILLE
MIDWEST REGIONAL:
(1) KANSAS VS (12) VILLANOVA
(3) WISCONSIN VS (10) DAVIDSON
SOUTH REGIONAL:
(1) MEMPHIS VS (5) MICHIGAN STATE
(2) TEXAS VS (3) STANFORD
WEST REGIONAL:
(1) UCLA VS (12) WESTERN KENTUCKY
(3) XAVIER VS (7) WEST VIRGINIA
Friday, March 21, 2008
Day One and A Look Ahead to Round Two
Best Game: Belmont vs Duke
Nobody expected the game to be as close and as exciting as it was and a lot of fans know Duke got away. Belmont played Duke wire to wire and the big question for Duke heading into their tilt with West Virginia tomorrow is can they find their defense? If they play the way Coach K wants and needs them too, then tomorrow should be a great game because if they play lackluster D once again, they could be in deep trouble.
Biggest Disappointment: Kent St. vs UNLV
Kent St. scored exactly ten points in the first half, TEN! They were blitzed from the get-go by a surprisingly good UNLV team. They came to play and despite some late buckets from the Golden Flashes, the game was a blowout. Kansas should not be looking past this team because they could get a run for their money.
Biggest Surprise: Kansas St. vs USC
Frank Martin out-coached Tim Floyd in what was a surprising double digit win for Beasley and co. He put Dominique Sutton on OJ Mayo and "Juice" looked all squeezed out by the time the game was over. Mayo got his 20 but his points were late and were non-factors. Beasley got his (23pts and 11reb) but it was Billy Walker's 22pts and KSU's team surge in the first half that led to the victory. A date with Wisconsin is up next, and that is a game that KSU could win.
GAMES TO WATCH SATURDAY:
(4) Pittsburgh vs (5) Michigan State 2 P.M.
You have to love this game because you have the fast paced offense of the Spartans against the slow down game of the Panthers. Pittsburgh is the hot team and the big question will be if MSU's role players like Raymar Morgan, Kalin Lucas, Chris Allen, etc can make up the slack if senior Drew Neitzel falters again. Pittsburgh is on fire and should march towards a show down in Houston with Memphis.
(4) Pittsburgh 74 vs (5) Michigan State 70
(3) Stanford vs (6) Marquette 3 P.M.
Size and quickness always make for a great matchup. Marquette's guards dueling with the seven-foot Lopez twins of Stanford. Both have experience and both can get after the ball. Stanford has the size but Marquette coach Tom Crean has been to a Final Four and has experience. Stanford may have to go small but if they force Marquette to go big, watch out.
(3) Stanford 70 vs (6) Marquette 62
(4) Washington State vs (5) Notre Dame 1 P.M.
Offense against defense yet again. Washington State, one of the best and most efficient defenses in the nation going up against the shooting of Kyle McAlarney and the down low scoring of Luke Harangody. If ND can hit their shots, WSU will have to play farther out and that would open up Harangody down low. ND can't play their opponents game because a slow down game is what the Cougars want. It will be difficult for WSU to play their way but fans in Denver should be getting a great game.
(4) Washington State 71 vs (5) Notre Dame 76
(3) Xavier vs (6) Purdue 4:40 P.M.
Not many people expected Purdue to be so good so fast because of their youth. Matt Painter's group is now entering uncharted territory and Xavier is up next. Purdue boasts a balanced scoring attack with several key freshman in E'Twan Moore, Robbie Hummel, JuJuan Johnson, and Scott Martin. Xavier will look to shut down the Boilermaker attack with their suffocating defense led by Stanley Burrell. His defensive play along with the leadership of Drew Lavender should push the Musketeers into the Sweet Sixteen.
(3) Xavier 64 vs (6) Purdue 57
THE NEXT FOUR:
(3) Wisconsin 67 vs (11) Kansas State 60
(1) Kansas 84 vs (8) UNLV 70
(1) UCLA 75 vs (9) Texas A&M 68
(2) Duke 82 vs (7) West Virginia 76
Nobody expected the game to be as close and as exciting as it was and a lot of fans know Duke got away. Belmont played Duke wire to wire and the big question for Duke heading into their tilt with West Virginia tomorrow is can they find their defense? If they play the way Coach K wants and needs them too, then tomorrow should be a great game because if they play lackluster D once again, they could be in deep trouble.
Biggest Disappointment: Kent St. vs UNLV
Kent St. scored exactly ten points in the first half, TEN! They were blitzed from the get-go by a surprisingly good UNLV team. They came to play and despite some late buckets from the Golden Flashes, the game was a blowout. Kansas should not be looking past this team because they could get a run for their money.
Biggest Surprise: Kansas St. vs USC
Frank Martin out-coached Tim Floyd in what was a surprising double digit win for Beasley and co. He put Dominique Sutton on OJ Mayo and "Juice" looked all squeezed out by the time the game was over. Mayo got his 20 but his points were late and were non-factors. Beasley got his (23pts and 11reb) but it was Billy Walker's 22pts and KSU's team surge in the first half that led to the victory. A date with Wisconsin is up next, and that is a game that KSU could win.
GAMES TO WATCH SATURDAY:
(4) Pittsburgh vs (5) Michigan State 2 P.M.
You have to love this game because you have the fast paced offense of the Spartans against the slow down game of the Panthers. Pittsburgh is the hot team and the big question will be if MSU's role players like Raymar Morgan, Kalin Lucas, Chris Allen, etc can make up the slack if senior Drew Neitzel falters again. Pittsburgh is on fire and should march towards a show down in Houston with Memphis.
(4) Pittsburgh 74 vs (5) Michigan State 70
(3) Stanford vs (6) Marquette 3 P.M.
Size and quickness always make for a great matchup. Marquette's guards dueling with the seven-foot Lopez twins of Stanford. Both have experience and both can get after the ball. Stanford has the size but Marquette coach Tom Crean has been to a Final Four and has experience. Stanford may have to go small but if they force Marquette to go big, watch out.
(3) Stanford 70 vs (6) Marquette 62
(4) Washington State vs (5) Notre Dame 1 P.M.
Offense against defense yet again. Washington State, one of the best and most efficient defenses in the nation going up against the shooting of Kyle McAlarney and the down low scoring of Luke Harangody. If ND can hit their shots, WSU will have to play farther out and that would open up Harangody down low. ND can't play their opponents game because a slow down game is what the Cougars want. It will be difficult for WSU to play their way but fans in Denver should be getting a great game.
(4) Washington State 71 vs (5) Notre Dame 76
(3) Xavier vs (6) Purdue 4:40 P.M.
Not many people expected Purdue to be so good so fast because of their youth. Matt Painter's group is now entering uncharted territory and Xavier is up next. Purdue boasts a balanced scoring attack with several key freshman in E'Twan Moore, Robbie Hummel, JuJuan Johnson, and Scott Martin. Xavier will look to shut down the Boilermaker attack with their suffocating defense led by Stanley Burrell. His defensive play along with the leadership of Drew Lavender should push the Musketeers into the Sweet Sixteen.
(3) Xavier 64 vs (6) Purdue 57
THE NEXT FOUR:
(3) Wisconsin 67 vs (11) Kansas State 60
(1) Kansas 84 vs (8) UNLV 70
(1) UCLA 75 vs (9) Texas A&M 68
(2) Duke 82 vs (7) West Virginia 76
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Thursday Schedule and Games to Watch
WEST REGIONAL:
(1) UCLA VS MISS VALLEY ST (16)
(2) DUKE VS BELMONT (15)
(3) XAVIER VS GEORGIA (14)
(6) PURDUE VS BAYLOR (11)*
(7) WEST VIRGINIA VS ARIZONA (10)*
(8) BYU VS TEXAS A&M (9)*
MIDWEST REGIONAL:
(1) KANSAS VS PORTLAND ST. (16)
(3) WISCONSIN VS CAL ST FULLERTON (14)
(6) USC VS KANSAS ST. (11)*
(8) UNLV VS KENT ST. (9)*
SOUTH REGIONAL:
(3) STANFORD VS CORNELL (14)
(4) PITTSBURGH VS ORAL ROBERTS (13)
(5) MICH ST VS TEMPLE (12)*
(6) MARQUETTE VS KENTUCKY (11)*
EAST REGIONAL:
(4) WASHINGTON ST VS WINTHROP (13)
(5) NOTRE DAME VS GEORGE MASON (12)*
* MUST SEE GAMES
(1) UCLA VS MISS VALLEY ST (16)
(2) DUKE VS BELMONT (15)
(3) XAVIER VS GEORGIA (14)
(6) PURDUE VS BAYLOR (11)*
(7) WEST VIRGINIA VS ARIZONA (10)*
(8) BYU VS TEXAS A&M (9)*
MIDWEST REGIONAL:
(1) KANSAS VS PORTLAND ST. (16)
(3) WISCONSIN VS CAL ST FULLERTON (14)
(6) USC VS KANSAS ST. (11)*
(8) UNLV VS KENT ST. (9)*
SOUTH REGIONAL:
(3) STANFORD VS CORNELL (14)
(4) PITTSBURGH VS ORAL ROBERTS (13)
(5) MICH ST VS TEMPLE (12)*
(6) MARQUETTE VS KENTUCKY (11)*
EAST REGIONAL:
(4) WASHINGTON ST VS WINTHROP (13)
(5) NOTRE DAME VS GEORGE MASON (12)*
* MUST SEE GAMES
Final Four Prediction
Final Four: North Carolina vs Kansas, Texas vs UCLA.
National Championship: Kansas vs UCLA
National Champion: Kansas
Most Outstanding Player: Mario Chalmers G Kansas
National Championship: Kansas vs UCLA
National Champion: Kansas
Most Outstanding Player: Mario Chalmers G Kansas
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Bracket Breakdown: West Region
Top Four Seeds: UCLA, Duke, Xavier, Connecticut
Favorite: UCLA
Sleeper: Connecticut
Bracket Buster: Baylor
Best First Round Game: West Virginia vs Arizona
Upset Watch: Drake vs Western Kentucky
Best Player You Don't Know: Courtney Lee G Western Kentucky
The Bruins have the easiest road to San Antonio of the four number one seeds and it should be no surprise that barring a major upset, UCLA will most likely reach its third consecutive Final Four. Ben Howland is to the national championship game what John Calipari is to the Final Four; they just can't make that next step. The Bruins are loaded with everything. They have a heady lead man in Darren Collison, a versatile wing scorer in Russell Westbrook, and a beast inside with Pac-10 Player of the Year Kevin Love. Duke is the two seed in this region and have been great for most of the year but have been down recently. The only inside game from the Blue Devils is bench player Brian Zoubek. Duke's lack of an inside game has caught up with them but the experience of Coach K on the sideline could a major factor in the success they have this tournament. Xavier won the A-10 by three games but are relatively unknown to most fans. Stanley Burrell and Drew Lavender form a potent back-court that is equally on offense and defense. the up-and-down UCONN Huskies are the four seed and if they play up to their potential, a Sweet Sixteen matchup with UCLA should be in order. Watch out for Baylor as a possible Cinderella because of their ability to score and play up tempo. In the end, the Bruins have too much of everything.
Sweet Sixteen: UCLA, Connecticut, Baylor, Duke
Elite Eight: UCLA vs Duke
West Region Champion: UCLA
Most Outstanding Player: Darren Collison G UCLA
Favorite: UCLA
Sleeper: Connecticut
Bracket Buster: Baylor
Best First Round Game: West Virginia vs Arizona
Upset Watch: Drake vs Western Kentucky
Best Player You Don't Know: Courtney Lee G Western Kentucky
The Bruins have the easiest road to San Antonio of the four number one seeds and it should be no surprise that barring a major upset, UCLA will most likely reach its third consecutive Final Four. Ben Howland is to the national championship game what John Calipari is to the Final Four; they just can't make that next step. The Bruins are loaded with everything. They have a heady lead man in Darren Collison, a versatile wing scorer in Russell Westbrook, and a beast inside with Pac-10 Player of the Year Kevin Love. Duke is the two seed in this region and have been great for most of the year but have been down recently. The only inside game from the Blue Devils is bench player Brian Zoubek. Duke's lack of an inside game has caught up with them but the experience of Coach K on the sideline could a major factor in the success they have this tournament. Xavier won the A-10 by three games but are relatively unknown to most fans. Stanley Burrell and Drew Lavender form a potent back-court that is equally on offense and defense. the up-and-down UCONN Huskies are the four seed and if they play up to their potential, a Sweet Sixteen matchup with UCLA should be in order. Watch out for Baylor as a possible Cinderella because of their ability to score and play up tempo. In the end, the Bruins have too much of everything.
Sweet Sixteen: UCLA, Connecticut, Baylor, Duke
Elite Eight: UCLA vs Duke
West Region Champion: UCLA
Most Outstanding Player: Darren Collison G UCLA
Bracket Breakdown: South Region
Top Four Seeds: Memphis, Texas, Stanford, Pittsburgh
Favorite: Memphis
Sleeper: Pittsburgh
Bracket Buster: St. Mary's (CA)
Best First Round Game: Marquette vs Kentucky
Upset Watch: Michigan State vs Temple
Best Player You Don't Know: Patrick Mills G St. Mary's (CA)
After reaching the Elite Eight the past two years, Memphis coach John Calipari knows his Final Four berth is long overdue. After having being disappointed yet again last year vs Texas A&M, this could be the year they break through. Their main competition will be Big East tournament champion Pittsburgh Panthers, Big 12 co-regular season champs Texas, and Pac-10 runner-up Stanford. Texas has arguably the best back-court in the nation with DJ Augustin and AJ Abrams. These two have to be on point if Texas has any chance at winning the region. Stanford is a little more unknown because they play out West but don't under-estimate the Cardinals because they lean on twin seven-foot sophomore Brook and Robin Lopez. With heady point guard Mitch Johnson running the show, Stanford could be a serious threat in the South region. At lastly is Pitt. Don't be fooled by their record because they are playing great team defense and as the old adage goes, defense wins championships. Other teams to watch out for are Michigan State and Marquette. Both have up tempo games who could win any game if they are hot from the field.
Sweet Sixteen: Memphis, Pittsburgh, Stanford, Texas
Elite Eight: Pittsburgh vs Texas
South Region Champion: Texas
Most Outstanding Player: DJ Augustin G Texas
Favorite: Memphis
Sleeper: Pittsburgh
Bracket Buster: St. Mary's (CA)
Best First Round Game: Marquette vs Kentucky
Upset Watch: Michigan State vs Temple
Best Player You Don't Know: Patrick Mills G St. Mary's (CA)
After reaching the Elite Eight the past two years, Memphis coach John Calipari knows his Final Four berth is long overdue. After having being disappointed yet again last year vs Texas A&M, this could be the year they break through. Their main competition will be Big East tournament champion Pittsburgh Panthers, Big 12 co-regular season champs Texas, and Pac-10 runner-up Stanford. Texas has arguably the best back-court in the nation with DJ Augustin and AJ Abrams. These two have to be on point if Texas has any chance at winning the region. Stanford is a little more unknown because they play out West but don't under-estimate the Cardinals because they lean on twin seven-foot sophomore Brook and Robin Lopez. With heady point guard Mitch Johnson running the show, Stanford could be a serious threat in the South region. At lastly is Pitt. Don't be fooled by their record because they are playing great team defense and as the old adage goes, defense wins championships. Other teams to watch out for are Michigan State and Marquette. Both have up tempo games who could win any game if they are hot from the field.
Sweet Sixteen: Memphis, Pittsburgh, Stanford, Texas
Elite Eight: Pittsburgh vs Texas
South Region Champion: Texas
Most Outstanding Player: DJ Augustin G Texas
Bracket Breakdown: Midwest Region
Top Four Seeds: Kansas, Georgetown, Wisconsin, Vanderbilt
Favorite: Kansas
Sleeper: USC
Bracket Buster: Davidson
Best First Round Game: Davidson vs Gonzaga
Upset Watch: Vanderbilt vs Siena, Villanova vs Clemson
Best Player You Don't Know: Stephen Curry G Davidson
Wisconsin is just as unhappy as Tennessee is with their seeding. After winning the Big Ten tournament title and boasting a 29-4 record, Bo Ryan's club was placed into a region with possible match-ups with Georgetown, Kansas, and a dangerous second round game vs USC. Georgetown is also afraid of a possible second round game with either Davidson or Gonzaga because both teams have talent and are not scared of the big boys. Look for this region to maybe have a few upsets but mark down the Elite Eight for Kansas and Georgetown. The Hoyas are a well coached team and play tough defense. Kansas has been searching for tournament success for quite some time and Bill Self believes they may have found it.
Sweet Sixteen: Kansas, Clemson, USC, Georgetown
Elite Eight: Kansas vs Georgetown
Midwest Region Champion: Kansas
Most Outstanding Player: Brandon Rush F Kansas
Favorite: Kansas
Sleeper: USC
Bracket Buster: Davidson
Best First Round Game: Davidson vs Gonzaga
Upset Watch: Vanderbilt vs Siena, Villanova vs Clemson
Best Player You Don't Know: Stephen Curry G Davidson
Wisconsin is just as unhappy as Tennessee is with their seeding. After winning the Big Ten tournament title and boasting a 29-4 record, Bo Ryan's club was placed into a region with possible match-ups with Georgetown, Kansas, and a dangerous second round game vs USC. Georgetown is also afraid of a possible second round game with either Davidson or Gonzaga because both teams have talent and are not scared of the big boys. Look for this region to maybe have a few upsets but mark down the Elite Eight for Kansas and Georgetown. The Hoyas are a well coached team and play tough defense. Kansas has been searching for tournament success for quite some time and Bill Self believes they may have found it.
Sweet Sixteen: Kansas, Clemson, USC, Georgetown
Elite Eight: Kansas vs Georgetown
Midwest Region Champion: Kansas
Most Outstanding Player: Brandon Rush F Kansas
Monday, March 17, 2008
Bracket Breakdown: East Region
Top Four Seeds: North Carolina, Tennessee, Louisville, Washington State,
Favorite: North Carolina
Sleeper: Notre Dame
Bracket Buster: Butler
Best First Round Game: Indiana vs Arkansas
Upset Watch: Washington State vs Winthrop
Best Players You Don't Know: Reggie Larry F Boise State,Demetric Bennett G South Ala.
North Carolina received the overall number one seed but the committee did not do any favors by making the East the hardest region in the tournament. Tennessee was in the hunt for a number one seed but their semi-final loss to Arkansas put them in the two seed line and they were rewarded by having a potential second round game with bracket busters Butler or South Alabama. This is the toughest region and most of the time in regions like this you usually get the chalk. Look for the top teams to hold seed and advance. Louisville and Notre Dame are playing the best ball of the season and should not be overlooked. Oklahoma has the potential to spring an upset of Louisville but if Rick Pitino's crew listens, they could be going a long way.
Sweet Sixteen: North Carolina, Notre Dame, Louisville, Tennessee
Elite Eight: North Carolina vs Louisville
East Region Champion: North Carolina
Most Outstanding Player: Tyler Hansbrough C North Carolina
Favorite: North Carolina
Sleeper: Notre Dame
Bracket Buster: Butler
Best First Round Game: Indiana vs Arkansas
Upset Watch: Washington State vs Winthrop
Best Players You Don't Know: Reggie Larry F Boise State,Demetric Bennett G South Ala.
North Carolina received the overall number one seed but the committee did not do any favors by making the East the hardest region in the tournament. Tennessee was in the hunt for a number one seed but their semi-final loss to Arkansas put them in the two seed line and they were rewarded by having a potential second round game with bracket busters Butler or South Alabama. This is the toughest region and most of the time in regions like this you usually get the chalk. Look for the top teams to hold seed and advance. Louisville and Notre Dame are playing the best ball of the season and should not be overlooked. Oklahoma has the potential to spring an upset of Louisville but if Rick Pitino's crew listens, they could be going a long way.
Sweet Sixteen: North Carolina, Notre Dame, Louisville, Tennessee
Elite Eight: North Carolina vs Louisville
East Region Champion: North Carolina
Most Outstanding Player: Tyler Hansbrough C North Carolina
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Sunday, March 9, 2008
PAC TEN AWARDS
PLAYER OF THE YEAR: KEVIN LOVE F/C UCLA
FRESHMAN OF THE YEAR: JERRYD BAYLESS G ARIZONA
MOST IMPROVED: RUSSELL WESTBROOK G UCLA
COACH OF THE YEAR: TRENT JOHNSON STANFORD
PAC TEN FIRST TEAM:
BROOK LOPEZ C STANFORD
KEVIN LOVE F/C UCLA
RYAN ANDERSON F CALIFORNIA
JERRYD BAYLESS G ARIZONA
DARREN COLLISON G UCLA
PAC TEN FRESHMAN TEAM:
KEVIN LOVE F/C UCLA
DAVON JEFFERSON F SOUTHER CALIFORNIA
JAMES HARDEN G ARIZONA STATE
OJ MAYO G SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
JERRYD BAYLESS G ARIZONA
FRESHMAN OF THE YEAR: JERRYD BAYLESS G ARIZONA
MOST IMPROVED: RUSSELL WESTBROOK G UCLA
COACH OF THE YEAR: TRENT JOHNSON STANFORD
PAC TEN FIRST TEAM:
BROOK LOPEZ C STANFORD
KEVIN LOVE F/C UCLA
RYAN ANDERSON F CALIFORNIA
JERRYD BAYLESS G ARIZONA
DARREN COLLISON G UCLA
PAC TEN FRESHMAN TEAM:
KEVIN LOVE F/C UCLA
DAVON JEFFERSON F SOUTHER CALIFORNIA
JAMES HARDEN G ARIZONA STATE
OJ MAYO G SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
JERRYD BAYLESS G ARIZONA
SEC AWARDS
PLAYER OF THE YEAR: JAMONT GORDON G MISSISSIPPI STATE
FRESHMAN OF THE YEAR: NICK CALATHES G FLORIDA
MOST IMPROVED PLAYER: MARREESE SPEIGHTS C FLORIDA
COACH OF THE YEAR: RICK STANSBURY MISSISSIPPI STATE
SEC FIRST TEAM:
RICHARD HENDRIX F ALABAMA
SHAN FOSTER F VANDERBILT
TYLER SMITH F TENNESSEE
JAMONT GORDON G MISSISSIPPI STATE
DEVAN DOWNEY G SOUTH CAROLINA
SEC FRESHMAN TEAM:
AJ OGILVY C VANDERBILT
PATRICK PATTERSON F KENTUCKY
ANTHONY RANDOLPH F LSU
NICK CALATHES G FLORIDA
CHRIS WARREN G OLE MISS
FRESHMAN OF THE YEAR: NICK CALATHES G FLORIDA
MOST IMPROVED PLAYER: MARREESE SPEIGHTS C FLORIDA
COACH OF THE YEAR: RICK STANSBURY MISSISSIPPI STATE
SEC FIRST TEAM:
RICHARD HENDRIX F ALABAMA
SHAN FOSTER F VANDERBILT
TYLER SMITH F TENNESSEE
JAMONT GORDON G MISSISSIPPI STATE
DEVAN DOWNEY G SOUTH CAROLINA
SEC FRESHMAN TEAM:
AJ OGILVY C VANDERBILT
PATRICK PATTERSON F KENTUCKY
ANTHONY RANDOLPH F LSU
NICK CALATHES G FLORIDA
CHRIS WARREN G OLE MISS
BIG EAST AWARDS
PLAYER OF THE YEAR: LUKE HARANGODY F NOTRE DAME
FRESHMAN OF THE YEAR: DONTE GREENE F AND JONNY FLYNN G SYRACUSE
MOST IMPROVED PLAYER: SAM YOUNG F PITTSBURGH
COACH OF THE YEAR: MIKE BREY NOTRE DAME
BIG EAST FIRST TEAM:
LUKE HARANGODY F NOTRE DAME
KENTRELL GRANSBERRY F SOUTH FLORIDA
SAM YOUNG F PITTSBURGH
DEONTA VAUGHN G CINCINNATI
A.J. PRICE G CONNECTICUT
BIG EAST FRESHMAN TEAM:
DeJUAN BLAIR F PITTSBURGH
DONTE' GREEN F SYRACUSE
DAR TUCKER F DePAUL
DOMINIQUE JONES G SOUTH FLORIDA
JONNY FLYNN G SYRACUSE
FRESHMAN OF THE YEAR: DONTE GREENE F AND JONNY FLYNN G SYRACUSE
MOST IMPROVED PLAYER: SAM YOUNG F PITTSBURGH
COACH OF THE YEAR: MIKE BREY NOTRE DAME
BIG EAST FIRST TEAM:
LUKE HARANGODY F NOTRE DAME
KENTRELL GRANSBERRY F SOUTH FLORIDA
SAM YOUNG F PITTSBURGH
DEONTA VAUGHN G CINCINNATI
A.J. PRICE G CONNECTICUT
BIG EAST FRESHMAN TEAM:
DeJUAN BLAIR F PITTSBURGH
DONTE' GREEN F SYRACUSE
DAR TUCKER F DePAUL
DOMINIQUE JONES G SOUTH FLORIDA
JONNY FLYNN G SYRACUSE
BIG 12 AWARDS
PLAYER OF THE YEAR: MICHAEL BEASLEY F KANSAS STATE
FRESHMAN OF THE YEAR: MICHAEL BEASLEY F KANSAS STATE
MOST IMPROVED PLAYER: DAMION JAMES F TEXAS
COACH OF THE YEAR: SCOTT DREW BAYLOR
BIG 12 FIRST TEAM:
ALEKS MARIC C NEBRASKA
MICHAEL BEASLEY F KANSAS STATE
BLAKE GRIFFIN F OKLAHOMA
RICHARD ROBY G COLORADO
D.J. AUGUSTIN G TEXAS
BIG 12 FRESHMEN TEAM:
MICHAEL BEASLEY F KANSAS STATE
BLAKE GRIFFIN F OKLAHOMA
JAMES ANDERSON G/F OKLAHOMA STATE
LACEDARIUS DUNN G BAYLOR
COOKIE MILLER G NEBRASKA
FRESHMAN OF THE YEAR: MICHAEL BEASLEY F KANSAS STATE
MOST IMPROVED PLAYER: DAMION JAMES F TEXAS
COACH OF THE YEAR: SCOTT DREW BAYLOR
BIG 12 FIRST TEAM:
ALEKS MARIC C NEBRASKA
MICHAEL BEASLEY F KANSAS STATE
BLAKE GRIFFIN F OKLAHOMA
RICHARD ROBY G COLORADO
D.J. AUGUSTIN G TEXAS
BIG 12 FRESHMEN TEAM:
MICHAEL BEASLEY F KANSAS STATE
BLAKE GRIFFIN F OKLAHOMA
JAMES ANDERSON G/F OKLAHOMA STATE
LACEDARIUS DUNN G BAYLOR
COOKIE MILLER G NEBRASKA
BIG TEN AWARDS
PLAYER OF THE YEAR: D.J. WHITE F INDIANA
FRESHMAN OF THE YEAR: ERIC GORDON G INDIANA
MOST IMPROVED PLAYER: TREVON HUGHES G WISCONSIN
COACH OF THE YEAR: MATT PAINTER PURDUE
BIG TEN FIRST TEAM:
D.J. WHITE F INDIANA
RAYMAR MORGAN F MICHIGAN STATE
ERIC GORDON G INDIANA
MANNY HARRIS G MICHIGAN
JAMAR BUTLER G OHIO STATE
BIG TEN FRESHMAN TEAM:
KOSTA KOUFOS C OHIO STATE
ROBBIE HUMMEL F PURDUE
ERIC GORDON G INDIANA
MANNY HARRIS G MICHIGAN
E'TWAUN MOORE G PURDUE
FRESHMAN OF THE YEAR: ERIC GORDON G INDIANA
MOST IMPROVED PLAYER: TREVON HUGHES G WISCONSIN
COACH OF THE YEAR: MATT PAINTER PURDUE
BIG TEN FIRST TEAM:
D.J. WHITE F INDIANA
RAYMAR MORGAN F MICHIGAN STATE
ERIC GORDON G INDIANA
MANNY HARRIS G MICHIGAN
JAMAR BUTLER G OHIO STATE
BIG TEN FRESHMAN TEAM:
KOSTA KOUFOS C OHIO STATE
ROBBIE HUMMEL F PURDUE
ERIC GORDON G INDIANA
MANNY HARRIS G MICHIGAN
E'TWAUN MOORE G PURDUE
ACC Awards
PLAYER OF THE YEAR: TYLER HANSBROUGH F NORTH CAROLINA
FRESHMAN OF THE YEAR: KYLE SINGLER F DUKE
MOST IMPROVED PLAYER: GREIVIS VAZQUEZ G MARYLAND
COACH OF THE YEAR: FRANK HAITH MIAMI
ACC FIRST TEAM:
TYLER HANSBROUGH F UNC
JAMES GIST F MARYLAND
GREIVIS VAZQUEZ G MARYLAND
TYRESE RICE G BOSTON COLLEGE
SEAN SINGLETARY G VIRGINIA
ACC FRESHMAN TEAM:
J.J. HICKSON F NORTH CAROLINA STATE
JEFF ALLEN F VIRGINIA TECH
KYLE SINGLER F DUKE
RAKIM SANDERS G/F BOSTON COLLEGE
JEFF TEAGUE G WAKE FOREST
FRESHMAN OF THE YEAR: KYLE SINGLER F DUKE
MOST IMPROVED PLAYER: GREIVIS VAZQUEZ G MARYLAND
COACH OF THE YEAR: FRANK HAITH MIAMI
ACC FIRST TEAM:
TYLER HANSBROUGH F UNC
JAMES GIST F MARYLAND
GREIVIS VAZQUEZ G MARYLAND
TYRESE RICE G BOSTON COLLEGE
SEAN SINGLETARY G VIRGINIA
ACC FRESHMAN TEAM:
J.J. HICKSON F NORTH CAROLINA STATE
JEFF ALLEN F VIRGINIA TECH
KYLE SINGLER F DUKE
RAKIM SANDERS G/F BOSTON COLLEGE
JEFF TEAGUE G WAKE FOREST
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