March Madness will soon be upon us. The NCAA Men's basketball calendar's pinnacle always brings a certain level of prestige and intrigue for how everyone's predicted bracket will go. Although there has never been a verified perfect bracket, it doesn't stop people around the country from trying to predict what might transpire.
This year may be slightly different from previous generations. The usual powerhouses in college hoops aren't to be seen, and some of the best players not yet in the NBA are somewhere other than in NCAA basketball. Nevertheless, there should be plenty of thrilling games to be played.
Hottest Teams
The tournament is still a reasonable amount of time away where changes can happen, but as of yet, the likes of Duke and Kentucky won't be making a splash this year – although they should make the tournament, that is. That's not to say you won't see any blue-collar schools making waves at March Madness.
Once the tournament rolls around it's anyone's game especially with the availability of sports betting spreading across the US, including Massachusetts. American citizens can not only predict their bracket but bet on games, too. However, it's crucial to keep up to date with betting laws in your state using helpful sites. Keeping tabs on the current options for Massachusetts sports betting providers is a good start. For example, retail sports betting is already possible at three of the state's casinos, with sure to be a strong feature.
Knowing who to back is the tricky part. Alabama is traditionally known as a football school, but they have started to make a name for themselves in basketball. Having never captured an NCAA basketball title, they have made their fair share of sweet sixteens, the most recent coming in 2021.
They are as ranked the number two team in the country by most tables, only behind Purdue. Nate Oats has the team playing up-tempo and unselfish basketball, which could translate to championship success.
Another team that is playing hot right now is Purdue. The number one team in the nation is led by their enormous center Zach Edey. He's 7'4 and is their leading scorer and rebounder. His sheer size is difficult to deal with at the college level, with many not able to match up to his brute strength.
With easy scoring and rebounding, he could lead them all the way. It's a shame that many don't project him to go high in the next draft.
Kansas State is one of the hottest teams in the NCAA right now, but it's difficult to tell if their flame will still be burning bright come to the tournament. Athletic forward Keyontae Johnson and crafty point guard Markquis Nowell lead them. If those two can keep up their telepathic play, they could be a dark horse to win it all.
Players to Watch
Reigning national champion go-to scorer Jalen Wilson is quickly becoming one of the coldest finishers in college ball. He has scored at least 16 points in each of their nine games decided by six points or fewer. Not only that, but he leads their squad in scoring and rebounding.
His six-foot-eight frame lets him get to the basket easily, and he's a threat from deep. Having stayed all four years in college, you can see his experience really come to fruition this year. If Kansas is to repeat, he'll play a huge role.
Brandon Miller is a massive combo forward at 6'9, who is stroking it from three. His range sees him shoot over 40%, which is incredible for any player, but even better for a man his size. He is quick, so he gets to the basket and has a nice in-between game.
Basically, he's dangerous from anywhere on the court and is the number one reason Alabama has shot to prominence this year.
Contenders
It's difficult to pick a clear-cut favorite. Purdue looks to be the most set team, and with gargantuan center Zach Edey not likely to slow down, they might go all the way. With that said, Alabama or Kansas could easily come away with the title.
Kansas do have the most experience and are the reigning champs. With Wilson playing so well and coming up big in the clutch, it's difficult not to see them cutting down the nets come the final game of the season.
What is known is that the tournament will throw up its fair share of surprises but followed by some amazing displays of basketball.
