Moving along to the West region. Kansas headlines as the No.1 seed and in a similar spot as they found themselves last tournament. Arkansas and Illinois look to make an interesting 8/9 game and Hurley will meet Pitino who is no stranger to March with his time at Louisville. Here are the picks for the West Region.
No.1 Kansas vs No.16 Howard
Pick: Kansas
The defending champs will start their run at defending their title with a cruise over Howard. Their 20-point loss to Texas may worry people later on in picking them but the Jayhawks won't be tested in round one.
No.8 Arkansas vs No.9 Illinois
Pick: Arkansas
Illinois just wasn't consistent enough this season. They dealt with the ups and downs and had some off the court stories. But watching them this season, I have no reason to trust the Illini this March. Also factor in how the Big Ten has fared in March as of late. The Razorbacks made a run last year and I think have the chance to surprise people this tournament.
No.5 Saint Mary's vs No.12 VCU
Pick: St. Mary's
Over the past five tournaments the 5/12 game has been almost .500 record wise. But this St. Mary's team has shown this year is better than last year's team who drew the same seed. VCU has the history behind it but is not at the same level to believe them this time. St. Mary's get through round one.
No.4 UConn vs No.13 Iona
Pick: UConn
This is where I see everyone going for the upset pick. Pitino is back in March and riding Iona into the tournament, but this UConn team is one of few who have a shot to go deep. I think it would take UConn's worst game to not come out on top. I think Pitino has done enough to get back into a high major or close to it following this season. While it would be a story, I have the Huskies moving on.
No.6 TCU vs No.11 ASU/Nevada
Pick: TCU
While there always seems to be a first four team that sneaks its way into the round of 32, I don't think ASU or Nevada can provide enough against a team that did the impossible this season and win big in Allen Fieldhouse over Kansas this season. Give me the Horned Frogs.
No.7 Northwestern vs No.10 Boise State
Pick: Northwestern
Northwestern has been battled tested in the Big Ten and even came out with wins on the road at the Breslin Center and Assembly Hall this season. Boise State just lost to Utah State, but I just don't trust the Moutain West and Boo Buie I think will carry the Wildcats.
No.2 UCLA vs No.15 UNC Ashville
Pick: UCLA
What Cronin has done for the Bruins is no understatement. UCLA may have just lost a key player; this team still has what it takes to make a deep run. Keep an eye out as this game will be close.