Finally, it is March and the NCAA basketball tournament is underway. 68 teams are off to the races. Each of them seeking a coveted spot in the Final Four. Picking the Final Four teams is no easy task. If you have ever filled out a bracket religiously as I have in the past, you know how frustrated you become by the tournament's end. One of your teams loses and your entire bracket is busted. Despite my setbacks in years past, I still fill out a bracket each March. What follows are my Final Four predictions for this year's tournament. My bracket may be busted by then, but it is still worth a shot.
1. Duke
Duke has consistently been an AP top 3 team all season. Coach K rarely disappoints when it comes to this tournament. Zion Williamson has been the star for the Blue Devils since the season began. Duke defeated Florida State to win the ACC tournament and secure a number one seed in the tournament. A return to the Final Four seems to be in the cards for Duke this year.
2. North Carolina
I went back and forth between North Carolina and Kentucky in the Midwest bracket. Ultimately, I sided with the Tar Heels this season. Roy Williams has North Carolina in a number one seed this year and it was well earned. Williams was named coach of the year by USA Today. North Carolina is one of 3 ACC teams ranked in the top 3 heading into the tournament. This could shape up to be a big run for UNC this March.
3. University of Michigan
Michigan has been immensely competitive in the Big Ten during this season. They came up short of a Big Ten title after a loss to Michigan State in the championship. But The Wolverines are stacked with talent and perseverance. Michigan will likely face stronger opponents like Gonzaga or Florida State. That does not mean it is impossible to return to the Final Four. Michigan lost the National Championship to Villanova last year. Avenging that loss would be outstanding for Michigan fans everywhere.
4. University of Virginia
I am putting a lot of stock in the ACC this year, but Virginia has a lot to prove. The number 2 team in the nation lost in the first round last year to UMBC. The Cavaliers were the first number 1 seed in history to lose in the first round. Once again Virginia is a number one seed in the south and they will not repeat the first-round exit. Virginia has not been to the Final Four since 1984. They are long overdue for a championship run. This could be the year Virginia busts some brackets.
The NCAA basketball tournament is one of the most enjoyable events in sport. Every sports fan is glued either to their television set or their bracket. The anticipated Final Four round is wildly spirited and animated. My Final Four, Duke, Michigan, North Carolina, and Virginia will hopefully do me some good in my bracket pools this year. All four teams have been strong all season and now is the time to deliver. If you fill out a bracket this year, I wish you good luck because believe me, you are going to need it.
