By Stephen Luckey ’15

Midwest

 The Midwest region is a powerful one, no doubt. Kentucky being the only undefeated team in the tournament definitely puts them at a high level, and I personally see them going to the Elite Eight. The Wildcats will depend on Andrew and Aaron Harrison to lead them in scoring past the other teams in the region, but I predict the Kansas Jayhawks will beat them and earn their way in the Final Four. Kansas has some strong players who have the ability to beat anyone on the court, no matter the rank. Perry Ellis leads the team in scoring and will remain poised when meeting against Kentucky.

Pick: Kansas

Cinderella: Indiana

West

The West region is one that can definitely make some noise. The Wisconsin Badgers are the 1 seed and have key components to their style of play that will inevitably give them the advantage over other teams. Arizona and Baylor are really the only teams that are going to be a challenge to Wisconsin. The Badgers will depend on their star Forward Frank Kaminsky to lead them. Kaminsky is a high scorer and has remained consistent with rebounds throughout the year. With that, Wisconsin has the best chance to reach the Final Four.

Pick: Wisconsin

Cinderella: Oklahoma State

East

The East region is stacked with good teams that have excellent potential. With the Villanova Wildcats and Virginia Cavaliers, there are bound to be some big plays. As long as Virginia can stay healthy and limit injuries, my prediction is that they beat the whole region and make their place in the Final Four. They just have too many scorers that will pulverize the opposing defense. Justin Anderson’s performance is vital to the Cavalier’s tournament run. If he remains healthy and contributes like the impact player he is, Virginia should have no problem reading the Final Four.

Pick: Virginia

Cinderella: LSU

South

The South will be one to definitely pay close attention to, as the top ranked teams may actually fall to the lower ranked teams. Yes, Duke is number 1, but the UCLA Bruins take the spot in the Final Four. But then you have Gonzaga added to the mix, with excellent 3-point shooting. Gonzaga has a strength that will benefit them, and that’s their 3-point threat. They are the best in 3-point shooting and those extra points add up quite a bit. Watch for them to implement an early lead. Gonzaga’s forward Kyle Wiltjer is arguably the most dangerous shooter in the tournament, and he’s the one who the opponents will have to lockdown. Gonzaga is the best in the South, and will make the Final Four.

Pick: Gonzaga

Cinderella: UCLA

Conclusion

This tournament will be an exciting one in so many different ways. Various teams from around the country will show their talent. But when it all boils down to it, it’s easy to say that Virginia will be the one who takes it all.