South Region preview: Duke poised for long run
The Favorite:
Duke
Duke earned its first No.1 seed since 2011 despite failing to capture an ACC championship. But, Notre Dame toppling the Blue Devils in the semifinals shouldn't distract from the solid performance Duke put up all season. Duke's loss to Notre Dame was only its fourth of the season, and snapped an incredible 12 victory run.
Duke's ability to get things done on offense has the Blue Devils poised for a long tournament run. Led by ACC Player of the Year Jahlil Okafor, this talented squad averages 80.6 points each time they touch the hardwood. Duke will be able to clear the South Region if they can organize a strong defense to hold back their opponents.
The Contenders
Gonzaga
Despite being in the running for top seed for much of the season, Gonzaga flew under the radar and sailed to 32 wins with relatively little buzz. However, shooting a national-best 52.4 percent with Kentucky-transfer Kyle Wiltjer at the helm, teams will be surprised by the Bulldogs' bite.
Iowa State
Don't sleep on the Cyclones. The best part about Iowa State isn't their number of points or rebounds, but that they play their best when behind. Iowa State has battled back from double-digit deficits to win their past five games, proving they'll keep their opponents running until the clock runs down.
The Sleepers
SMU
It's been a long time since SMU played in the NCAA tournament, but the Mustangs played the season like they refused to be denied any longer. With 27 victories and an AAC title under their belt, head coach Larry Brown, as an old pro, will ensure his team doesn't look like this is their first dance.
Davidson
Just because Davidson no longer has Steph Curry doesn't mean they can't outwit their opponents. The Wildcats play fast and unselfishly, sharing the rock, and they have four players who can average double-digits.
Player to watch
Duke C Jahlil Okafor
Touted as the No. 1 pick in June's NBA draft, Okafor is an obvious choice for the South Region player to watch. The freshman big man has had a storied season that's lived up to the top-prospect buzz. Putting up 17.7 points and nine rebounds on 66.9-percent shooting to help his team win many games in a row. Okafor is just all-around good.
It's impossible to talk about Duke's success this season without mentioning Okafor. The Blue Devils rely heavily on the freshman's talents, so he can't afford an off day on the court.
Upset special
No. 12 Stephen F. Austin over No. 5 Utah
The Lumberjacks shoot well and are top-ranked in passing. Stephen F. Austin is on a dominant run, winning 28 of its last 29 games, and has the potential to steamroll a shaken Utah, who have lost three of its last five.