(9) Oklahoma State vs. (8) Oregon
When matchups between eight and nine seed teams take place they are always difficult games to pick. Both of these teams were mediocre throughout their seasons but found a way to get into the big dance. Oklahoma State failed to reach .500 in conference play, which rose more than a few eyebrows when they were selected to the tournament. Playing in a conference as competitive as the Big 12 could be one of the reasons that the Cowboys got into the tournament. Oregon on the other hand had a much better regular season. They made it to the Pac-12 final where they ran into the might powerhouse of Arizona. The defeat they suffered in that game should fuel the team that will be coached by Dana Altman. In this even matchup that “Quack Attack” will be too much for Oklahoma State.
Pick: Oregon
(16) Robert Morris vs. (1) Duke
Duke Blue Devils are synonymous with making deep runs into the tournament. There route to cutting down the nets will begin when they face off against Robert Morris. The Colonials from Robert Morris are riding high after winning their play-in game on Wednesday night. However, the team they played that night is nothing compared to what Coach K has in store for them. Star Freshmen Jahlil Okafor and Tyus Jones lead Duke, and they both will play an intricate role in how deep the Blue Devils can make it in to the tournament. Robert Morris’ head coach Andrew Toole is hoping that his Colonials become the first team with a 16-seed ranking to get a victory in the round of 64, although it probably is not going to happen.
Pick: Duke
(10) Davidson vs. (7) Iowa
Looking to upset Iowa will be the Atlantic 10 Conference Player of the Year, Tyler Kalinoski. The senior guard is the team’s leading scorer with just over 17 points/ per game. He is one of the main reasons why his team has been averaging close to 80-points/per game. Iowa will use their size and strength as they try to get over the stinging defeat that they suffered at the hands of Penn State in the conference tournament. The starting five for the Hawkeyes has three men over 6’9” and another 6’10” Center to come in off the bench. If the real Hawkeyes team shows up then they should be able to outmatch the Davidson Wildcats.
Pick: Iowa
(14) Albany vs. (3) Oklahoma
The Big 12 has had a very rough start to the NCAA Tournament so far. Oklahoma looks to be one team that can restore some faith in the conference. It has been since 2009, that the Sooners have been able to win a game when it matters the most. The Sooners will face off against the Albany Great Danes who have made the tournament each of the last three years. Oklahoma will look to keep the pressure on the Great Danes the entire game and control the tempo at a pace they feel comfortable with. Oklahoma could be one of those teams that could potentially shock the fans of March Madness and make it to at least the Elite Eight.
Pick: Oklahoma
