What a ride this has been---and continues to be---for Coach Self, the team and all Jayhawk fans. I have never been to the Final Four and at my age---68---I decided this was the year. I brought my son and yesterday's experience was a memory that I will always treasure. No matter what happens on Monday night---and we will be rooting hard---this has been one of the best experiences of my life.
I would describe yesterday's game as somewhat workmanlike. KU hit Villanova with a haymaker at the beginning of the game, courtesy of Ochai being Ochai and Big Dave 'dominating inside. Juan's defense on Gillespie was also spectacular, and the Hawks made it hard on Villanova to score, especially early. Braun struggled most of the game offensively, but obviously he got it going late. So proud of Ochai as he showed everyone what he is capable of doing. This was the first game in over a month that someone played him pretty straight, at least in the first half, and he made them pay.
Jalen's work on the boards was spectacular, and it was pretty physical inside. Villanova kept us from getting transition baskets, but our half court offense was good for most of the game. It was a well-officiated game, with a miNiccum of ticky-tack fouls.
We sat on the border between the Duke section and the UNC section. Man, those people don't like each other. At all.
We will have our hands full with UNC---as should be expected in the Finals. Their big man is a beast on the boards (21 rebounds) and their two guards are quick, can get their own shot and they shoot the eyes out of it. Juan will play one of them, but it will be interesting to see how we match up with the other. If we can stay in front of them, our length should bother them. When Remy is in the game, he will need some help on one of them. Big Dave will be going against a shot blocker, and he will need to have another solid game. We've seen Manek before, but he is improved. His release is one of the quickest I've seen. I assume that's Jalen's match-up and that should be quite a battle. Ochai remains a big key, and although UNC has some athletes, I don't know how they match up with him.
As objective as I can be, I see the Hawks winning. UNC plays hard and their guards are great, but we have a more balanced team offensively and we are as good or better defensively. I assume both teams will want to run, so it should be exciting.
I have derived so much pleasure watching the Jayhawks over the years, and this is as good as it gets. Let's finish it off in style on Monday! Rock Chalk!
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