ForumsLast but not least, here’s a look at the West regional. UCONN has used the Pacific time zone as its jumping off point for both of Jim Calhoun’s national title squads. The Trap sees it this way:
Best First Round Game: Marquette-Utah State. The Golden Eagles tumbled after the season ending injury to Dominic James. They still have a team capable of parlaying their draw into a trip to the Sweet 16. Stew Morrill is the most underrated coach in America. The Aggies are efficient, but not overwhelmingly athletic. State will have something of a homecourt advantage in Boise.
Sleeper: Purdue. The Boliermakers are finally close to healthy. If Robbie Hummel’s back holds up, Matt Painter’s squad can play with anyone in this region.
First Round Winnners: UCONN, Memphis, Missouri, Washington, Purdue, Marquette, Maryland, Texas A&M.
Sweet 16: UCONN, Memphis, Marquette, Purdue.
Elite Eight: UCONN and Memphis.
Final Four: UCONN.
