Faroqhmanesh had a different idea, and why I love this shot, you can see both ideas on his face. He thinks about taking the shot, almost looks around, then hesitates. And in a split-second you can see him (correctly) assess the situation, realize his team's best chance was for him to stick the high-wire three, put them up four, and GRAB the upset win by the throat.
And that's exactly what Ali did, and that, as least for now to the Maniac, makes Ali the Greatest Of All Time!! Ok, a little much. But perhaps my favorite non-buzzer beater in tourney history.
With one mighty shot from Ali, down goes Frazier! Er...Kansas.
Let's see what might be on tap today as the Maniac continues to pick every game in the tourney against the spread. (23-17 entering today)
Gonzaga +7 v. Syracuse -- Onawaku is still out, which leaves the 'Cuse depending on a seven foot freshman, and some kind whistles. They play a famously thin rotation, losing one of your seven guys, and only premier big, is a problem. Just the kind of problem the Zags can exploit with Robert Sacre and Elias Harris. I feel like I have written this the past eight years in my tourney column, but I feel as comfortable with the ball in the hands of Matt Boldin as I do with any other player in the country. Not sure the Zags win straight-up (though I definitely have the Cuse on upset alert) but I like them with the seven for sure.
Georgia Tech +7 v Ohio State -- If the Buckeyes can stay focused, this tournament opened up really well for them to return to the Final Four for the third time in ten years and second in four. However, the Buckeyes haven't blown out a lot of teams, and Georgia Tech certainly has the talent to play with any team in the country when they play well. I like Ohio State, and don't think they'll need theatrics to accomplish it, but not sure I'm willing to lay seven.
Michigan State +1 v. Maryland -- Nothing a feel better about than betting on Tom Izzo in March. This game is a true and honest toss-up, so when in doubt, play the tourney odds. Plus, Kalin Lucas looked fantastic in round one and seems to have a knack for big moments.
Missouri v. West Virginia -6 -- This line feels way to small. West Virginia is more than equipped to counter the frenetic style that Mizzou will throw at them. It really feels like the 'Eers and Kentucky might be on a collision course for a classic. Gimme WVU, lay the points. This is probably my favorite game of the day.
Cornell +5 v. Wisconsin -- Wisconsin's claim to fame is knocking off unsuspecting foes in the tournament with their plodding, slow-down, methodical style. Um, that won't work against Cornell. In fact, it plays right into their wheelhouse. I like Cornell straight-up, but will take the five gladly.
Xavier (PICK) v. Pitt -- Hard to believe, but this is the first pick-em of the NCAA Tournament, and it is bestowed upon the Maniac's Muskies. I've yapped that Pitt is overrated most of the season (and most of last..and the year before...). Well, if I'm wrong, it seems like a lot of you will be able to throw it in my face. Give me X and Jordan Crawford getting a little revenge for last year's Sweet Sixteen ouster.
Texas A&M v. Purdue +2.5 -- Boiler Up! I'm staying on board until they meet the Dukies next week. JuJuan Johnson and E'Twaun made the Maniac look smart against Siena, here's betting they do it again against Aggies, surprisingly only the third Big 12 team remaining...
Cal v. Duke -6 -- Cal has played well of late, and Washington's blistering run makes one at least pause for a second in regard to quickly dismissing the Pac 10. However, Duke is a whole different animal than the erratic Louisville Cards. The Dukies won't no-show today, and I'm not sure Cal has the ammo to hang around. Give me the Devils easy.
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