So far, this year’s edition of the NCAA men’s basketball Final Four has not disappointed. You’d undoubtedly disagree if you’re a fan of Auburn or Duke, of course, but from a neutral perspective the high drama and big moments have kept us riveted.
Now all we want is a worthy encore as the last two teams standing from this incredibly accomplished quartet square off Monday night in San Antonio for all the marbles.
Either the Alamodome crowd will get to watch a home-state program that has been knocking on the door for decades claim its first title, or see the flagship school from the Sunshine State hang a third banner.
Let’s get to the game.
No. 1 Florida vs. No. 1 Houston
Time/TV: 8:50 p.m. ET, CBS
It’s a titanic clash between the champions of the Big 12 and SEC. Houston, in addition to seeking its first title, looks to make it three championships in five years for the numerically incorrect Large Dozen. Despite the SEC’s dominance in the polls this season, a title for the Gators would be the league’s first since 2012.
Given what we’ve witnessed throughout this tournament including Saturday’s semifinals, it’s fair to say no lead will be truly safe. Both teams have proven they can execute with the game on the line,, so while we can never count on it we would not be surprised if things weren’t decided until the final shot.
Houston’s identity, of course, is its lock-down defense. The first priority for the Cougars at that end will naturally be Gators standout Walter Clayton Jr. He’ll have help in the backcourt from Isaiah Martin and Will Richard, but Florida will probably need more from Alex Condon, who managed just a single point against Auburn but did make his presence felt on defense.
Yes, Florida can defend a bit as well, and will enjoy a considerable size advantage across the front. But the Cougars guard L.J. Cryer has shown takeover ability himself, and Emanuel Sharp is another major 3-point threat. If J’Wan Roberts and Joseph Tugler can continue to hold their own on the glass, which they frequently do even against taller opponents, the Cougars will be hard to put away, especially if Houston needs a miraculous rally.