NCAA Tournament Elite 8: Louisville vs. Florida Preview
Game: (4) Louisville vs. (7) Florida 3/24 4:30 PM ET
Game Analysis: Louisville continues to be one of the strongest defense teams in the nation. They frustrated the one-seeded Michigan State Spartans the entire game last round, causing them to shoot an embarrassing 28% from the field. Their offense continues to take smart shots and their depth will allow them to stay fresh towards the end of games. The Cardinals are being lead by Kyle Kuric (13.1 points) and Russ Smith (11.4 points), who will prove to be a very tough assignment for the Gators to keep in check. However, the team loves to make noise under the hoop, as they averaging a respectable 38.2 rebounds per game. On the other hand, Florida is the one team this tournament season that no one is talking about, even though they have man-handle their opponents by outscoring their competition 223-153. The Gators are playing flawless at the right time and are very reminiscent of the UConn Huskies team that ran the table last season after a hot start.
Matchup to Watch: C Gorgui Dieng, Louisville vs. C Patric Young, Florida – Dieng and Young are two of the only true centers left in the tournament, so it should make one amazing matchup. Dieng is averaging over 9 rebounds per game and the Cardinals are not afraid to let him fight for rebounds, despite how many fouls he racks up. Young on the other hand had 7 points and 9 rebounds in a foul-riddled performance, but still showcased his physical nature in the paint. The sophomore is a stout 247 pounds, so Dieng (235 pounds) will have a difficult time gaining position against him down low.
Matchup to Watch: G Chris Smith, Louisville vs. G Bradley Beal, Florida – Louisville will likely match the senior up against the Florida star freshman, Bradley Beal. Beal is averaging an incredible 16.3 points and 8.7 rebounds per game in the tournament and will test the veteran guard all game. Beal is an extremely aggressive player around the rim, despite only being 6-feet-3 inches tall. Ironically Smith is also a smaller guard, at 6-feet-2 inches, so the “little guys” will be running all over the court. Beal is an offensive game-changer, so expect Smith to get plenty of help to contain the Florida freshman.
Prediction: Florida 68 – Louisville 63
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