The Anticipation of a Historic Final Four
Predictable yet compelling, the upcoming men’s NCAA Tournament Final Four brings a mix of emotions: excitement, nostalgia, and perhaps a hint of disappointment for some. For the first time since 2008, all four teams in the Final Four are No. 1 seeds, marking only the second occurrence since the tournament began its seeding process in 1979. However, among these elite teams, one stands out distinctly.
As we prepare for a thrilling weekend of basketball, it’s clear we have surpassed the stage of lamenting lost underdog narratives. This year, we can applaud the selection committee for their accurate seeding and embrace the opportunity to witness the best four teams clash in what promises to be the most significant games of the season. Many are placing their bets on the Duke Blue Devils to emerge victorious and cut down the nets at the Alamodome on Monday night.
This year’s Final Four includes:
- West No. 1 seed Florida
- Midwest No. 1 seed Houston
- South No. 1 seed Auburn
- East champion Duke
Among these teams, Duke is widely regarded as the clear favorite. This sentiment is largely due to the exceptional talent of freshman sensation Cooper Flagg, who is poised to contend for Most Outstanding Player honors, especially if he can lead his team to two more victories. Flagg’s performance has been instrumental in Duke’s success, and he is not alone in his contributions.
Flagg, projected to be the NBA’s next No. 1 overall pick, is a remarkable player known for his defensive prowess and offensive creativity. He has a unique ability to foresee plays before they unfold on both ends of the court. The Blue Devils (35-3) faced a tough challenge in the Sweet 16 against Arizona, where Flagg’s stellar performance—30 points, seven assists, six rebounds, and three blocks—was pivotal in securing a thrilling 100-93 victory. Coach Jon Scheyer described it as “one of the best tournament performances I’ve ever coached or been a part of,” reminiscent of Marquette’s Dwyane Wade in 2003.
In the Elite Eight, Flagg had an off night by his own high standards, scoring 16 points and shooting 6-for-16 from the field. Yet, Duke triumphed over No. 2 seed Alabama decisively, winning 85-65. This game provided a glimpse of the incredible depth and talent surrounding Flagg—other future pros who can dominate in various ways. It also showcased Coach Scheyer’s strategic brilliance in neutralizing Alabama’s fast-paced offense while generating clean looks for his players.
Duke’s journey to a potential sixth national title, which would be the first not under the legendary Mike Krzyzewski, places them in an elite group. A victory would tie them with rivals North Carolina and Connecticut for third all-time, trailing only UCLA (11) and Kentucky (eight).
Among Duke’s talented roster is freshman center Khaman Maluach, a projected first-round pick who contributed significantly with 14 points, nine rebounds, and two blocks against Alabama. Maluach’s ability to dominate the paint complements Flagg’s skill set perfectly. Additionally, freshman guard Kon Knueppel and junior guard Tyrese Procter have emerged as reliable scorers, adding to the offensive threat that has made Duke so formidable this season.
However, a formidable challenge awaits in the form of Houston, whose recent 69-50 victory over No. 2 seed Tennessee showcased their defensive strength. The Cougars are known for their suffocating defense, setting the stage for an intriguing semifinal matchup against Duke—an encounter between the most efficient offense and the most efficient defense in college basketball.
Houston (34-4), under the guidance of Coach Kelvin Sampson, is seeking its first national championship during its seventh Final Four appearance. Meanwhile, Florida, aiming for its third title, looks to solidify its place among the elite. Their journey has included narrow escapes, such as a thrilling comeback against No. 3 seed Texas Tech, where Walter Clayton Jr. delivered crucial three-pointers to secure an 84-79 victory.
As the SEC continues to assert its dominance in college basketball, the upcoming clash between Florida and Auburn guarantees the SEC’s first appearance in the championship game since Kentucky in 2014. Bruce Pearl’s Tigers, who last made a Final Four appearance in 2019, overcame Tom Izzo’s No. 2 seed Michigan State in a tightly contested South Regional final, thanks in large part to Johni Broome’s stellar performance.
In the realm of college basketball, expectations are high, and surprises abound. If Duke fails to secure the title, it would undoubtedly be the biggest shock of this Final Four weekend. But as we look ahead, Auburn’s potential to win it all also looms large, making them a strong contender as well.
(Photo of Cooper Flagg: Vincent Carchietta / Imagn Images)
