This past Saturday was an excellent turning point for March Madness. The Final Four was a series of epic proportions. Houston Cougars’ second chance rebounds and defensive physicality proved to be too much for the foul-troubled Duke Blue Devils, resulting in a win for the Coogs. Meanwhile, The Florida Gators defeated their SEC rival Auburn Tigers, thanks to the offensive onslaught of Walter Clayton Jr.. However, the battle ain’t over yet, as today is the Final Two. A game that will determine who will win it all after the craziness that March Madness spurred.
Difference maker Walter Clayton Jr. is the one that the opposing team will try to double. Clayton is an engine as a scorer and playmaker – he is the Gators conductor, will take them as long as he takes them. The Florida Gators have continued their already elite offensive rebounding team provided by the big men, Kevin Pazimo and Micah Handlogten, who have been excellent at passing and facilitating. Alijah Martin and Will Richards are definitely needed for extra scoring and clutch rebounds. If everything goes to plan, the Gators might get their first championship since the Billy Donovan consecutive titles in both 2006 and 2007.
The Houston Cougars are the most defensive-minded between the two. On and off the ball, this team is physical and is looking to contain Walter Clayton Jr. by any means necessary. Big men such as Joseph Tugler, J’Wan Roberts, and Ja’Vier Francis are going to continue to be athletic, lengthy defenders who will rebound. Speaking of J’Wan, his big play defending Flagg will give him the confidence he needs to attack the offensive glass. However, that’s not the only side of the ball where they’re aggressive. Guards L.J. Cryer, Emanuel “Crash” Sharp, and Milos Uzan are all lethal at the 3. The former two are relentless and dynamic scorers; they will light up the court with 3’s all night. Led by Kelvin Sampson, this could be the chance for the oldest coach to win a D1 Men’s NCAA title and, by proxy, their first ever.
Stay tuned for the Championship defining game tonight at 8:50 PM ET on CBS. Whether you’re a Houston Cougars fan or a Florida Gators lover, this will be a matchup you don’t want to miss.
