John Calipari can say all he wants about not worrying about his team’s poor foul shooting, but it almost cost them today. The Tigers overcame shooting a dismal 15-32 from the foul line, that included some late misses to pull out a three point win over Mississippi State.
Coach Cal is saying it doesn’t matter publically, as he should, but you know it keeps him up at night.
After missing some late free throws Miss. State pulled to within three and had a couple of chances to tie, but could never get over the hump. Jamont Gordon and Ben Hansborough carried the Bulldogs, but in the end it was Derrick Rose and too much depth for them to overcome.
Louisville used a pressing defense that harrassed Blake Griffin to jump out to a 44-22 halftime lead over Oklahoma and never looked back. Coach Rick Pitino has the Cards clicking on all cylinders and now that they are healthy are a definite threat to win it all.
Meanwhile, North Carolina blasted Arkansas. The TarHeels are healthy and rolling at the right time. With McDonald’s All Americans at every position, it is easy to be Roy Williams. When you shoot 67% from the floor and 8-16 from the 3 point line, let me repeat, it is easy to be Roy Williams.
Looking ahead, there are some interesting mathups.
North Carolina vs. Wash State. Can the Cougars make the Tar Heels play in the half court?
Memphis vs. Michigan State Brawn vs. athleticism?
L-Ville vs. Tennessee The originator of the full court pressure game (Pitino) vs. futuristic pressure coach (Pearl)
Stanford vs. Texas Size vs. Speed
Kansas vs. Villanova Favorite vs. Upstart
UCLA vs. Western Kentucky Blue blood vs. Red Blood
Wisconsin vs. Davidson Halfcourt vs. Halfcourt Whoever gets to 60 first wins.
Xavier vs. West Virginia Youthful experienc (Xavier-Miller) vs. Experienced youth (WVU-Huggins)
Keep tuned for a closer look as the week goes on.
