The Underdog: Connecticut
The UConn Huskies didn’t need an invitation to the party; they crashed it. Led by super senior guard, Shabazz Napier, Connecticut has gotten hot at just the right time. Their run is reminiscent of their title run in 2011, which, like this year’s team, was lead by a super senior guard in Kemba Walker.
Other than Napier, and unlike their Final Four opponent, the Huskies don’t have the look of a championship team on paper. However, if you watch the Huskies play, you can tell they believe that they can win the NCAA title this year and that belief is a powerful ally. There is no fear in UConn and, much like Head Coach Kevin Ollie, they are as steady as they come. During their tournament run, there has been calm and poise demonstrated by UConn, especially in the game’s closing moments. This should serve them well this weekend.
Keys to Victory: The Huskies will go as Shabazz Napier goes. Napier is the player who hit the game-winning shot against Florida in December. He has hit clutch shot after clutch shot since March started. He will have to have another dominant performance for UConn if they hope to advance to the championship game. Juniors Ryan Boatwright and DeAndre Daniels will also need to play well in order for UConn to advance. They have been solid on the defensive end and efficient on the offensive end during the tournament. Turnovers have been key for Huskies as well. In four tournament games, UConn has turned the ball over an average of nine times per game while forcing about 14 per game. It will be imperative for the Huskies to win the turnover battle and stay close in the rebounding category if they hope to beat Florida for the second time this season.
