Apr 8, 2019
Five quick thoughts on Virginia, Texas Tech and the big final
TSN Basketball Analyst Jack Armstrong returns with his five quick thoughts on Virginia impact player Ty Jerome, Texas Tech shooting guard Matt Mooney and much more on Monday night’s National Championship.
TSN Basketball Analyst Jack Armstrong returns with his five quick thoughts on Virginia impact player Ty Jerome, Texas Tech shooting guard Matt Mooney and much more on Monday night’s National Championship
1. TY JEROME (Virginia): By far the most versatile and impactful player consistently for his team in the NCAA tournament. Everything goes through the 6-foot-5 guard. He has a tremendous feel for the game and is a key guy to watch this evening.
2. MATT MOONEY (Texas Tech): He’s a big, strong guy who is relentless attacking the basket and hunting down shots. The shooting guard shoots it well from deep and has lots of confidence. I love his swagger and his experience as a fifth year graduate transfer surely helps.
3. DEANDRE HUNTER (Virginia): He played aggressively in the second half of the Cavaliers’ win over Auburn using his athleticism and strength to win individual battles. He needs to have his best game of the tournament tonight in Minneapolis.
4. JARRETT CULVER (Texas Tech): The Big 12 Player of the Year gives you an intriguing mix of explosiveness at the rim, ball handling skill, shot making and has good pursuit defensively. He’s the Red Raiders’ most talented guy and ultimately the plays will go through his hands to create positive matchups. The shooting guard is tough to guard one-on-one and his ability to break down UVA will be huge.
5. VIRGINIA OVER TEXAS TECH (66-63): I’ve been wrong plenty of times before – I might as well do it again! I’ve been joking since Saturday that the first team to 50 wins the tournament. I think we’ll see a hard fought, defensive battle with half-court execution being the critical factor. I like Virginia a little better in those instances by a slight edge. Enjoy the game!