The Matchup: Wisconsin (29-7) vs. Arizona (33-4)
When: Saturday, March 29 at 7:49pm CT
Where: Anaheim, CA (Honda Center)
TV: TBS
Radio: Badger Radio Network
Last Meeting: 65-61 Wisconsin W (2009)
All-Time Series: 3-2 Arizona leads
The Opposition:
Much like the Bears on Thursday, Wisconsin faces a team that plays with athleticism and length. However, unlike the Bears, Arizona plays some very solid defense to go with its high-powered offense. Arizona averages 73.1 points per game, while giving up just 58.4 points per game as well.
That last stat puts the Wildcats fifth nationally in scoring defense. UW hasn’t faced a better defensive team all season long, and that is the challenge it must overcome.
‘Zona is led by 6’3″ guard Nick Johnson, who averages 16.3 points per game and was named the Pac-12 Player of the Year. However, he is one of just two players on the expected starting lineup to average in double figures. Joining him is forward Aaron Gordon, who averages 12.5 points per game.
Wisconsin’s biggest challenge could be from Arizona’s ability to go deep on the bench up front, as forward Rondae Hollis-Jefferson average over 20 minutes per game from the bench. It means both Frank Kaminsky and Nigel Hayes need to stay out of foul trouble, otherwise the Badgers are going to have issues on the boards and in the paint.
Key Matchup: Guarding the Gates
Wisconsin’s Traevon Jackson has come up huge in the NCAA tournament, but the matchup with Arizona’s T.J. McConnell is going to be a very different animal. McConnell may not be averaging double figures, but he is the engine that drives this team. He’s averaging 5.3 assists per game and Jackson needs to be on point in guarding against the pick-and-roll, which Arizona has been mastering all season long. Jackson must also limit turnovers, which he’s done a good job of in each of UW’s blowout wins. Whichever point guard is wining, look for his team to be winning as well.
Prediction: Wisconsin 67, Arizona 62
Wisconsin has been on a heck of a run as of late, and it’s scary. Either it continues on for the rest of the tournament or it ends today. If it’s the latter, Wisconsin is in serious trouble against Arizona. However, when this team is hot it usually last for more than a few games. The Badgers are looking unstoppable and I don’t see how Arizona can beat Wisconsin as long as they play like they have over the last three halves of basketball. Wisconsin stays hot and advances to Arlington, Tex. for the Final Four, but it won’t be as easy as it was on Thursday.
Add The Sports Daily to your Google News Feed!
