#7 UConn vs. #1 Florida 5:07 PM CT CBS
My pick: Florida
I had UConn upsetting Villanova in the East Region, but did not see them advancing past the Sweet 16. Senior guard Shabazz Napier is on fire at the moment and looks like 2011 Kemba Walker right now. However, Florida is the top seed for a reason and head coach Billy Donovan will be able to implement a game plan that will make Napier work for his points and others like forward DeAndre Daniels and Ryan Boatright will have to step up for the Huskies. In the end, I think SEC player of year Scottie Wilbekin and the Gators' depth inside with Patric Young and Casey Prather is too much for UConn, as my national championship pick advances to Monday.
#8 Kentucky vs. #2 Wisconsin 7:47 PM CT CBS
My pick: Kentucky
Great match up in second game with the upstart Wildcats, finally playing as well as their preseason #1 ranking predicted facing Bo Ryan's veteran Badgers. I correctly predicted Kentucky to upset Wichita State in the round of 32 due to their talent and athleticism, but was surprised by the poise shown by the young Wildcats in taking out more experienced teams in Louisville and Michigan at the regional semifinals and finals. Meanwhile, Bo Ryan's swing offense and veteran team finally got him to his first career Final Four. Center Frank Kaminksy manhandled Arizona in the Elite 8, and the Badgers have great shooting from Ben Brust and Traevon Jackson to score with any team. However, I think Kaminksy will struggle a little against the length and athleticism of Dakari Johnson and Willie Caullie-Stein (if he can play), and the future NBA-stars in Aaron and Andrew Harrison, as well as Julius Randle carry the Wildcats to Monday night.
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