Opposing coaches reveal how top seeds can be beaten and by whom
KANSAS (No. 1 seed, South Region)
Big 12 assistant coach on Kansas: "They want to score inside the arc. That's what they want to do. Perry Ellis is so important to them because when things don't go their way, they want to throw it to Perry. If they don't have that option, it makes them a little more perimeter-oriented. I don't think they want to win that way. I think they'd rather win with Perry scoring first or their guards driving it. Now if they hit a couple threes early, [Bill Self] will sit over there and they'll win. But when they aren't making it, he really stresses getting to the rim or throwing it down to the block. ... Wayne Selden surprises you with his lack of confidence when he misses one. I know that sounds crazy, but he'll make one and it changes the way he approaches the rest of them. Everyone is affected by that to some extent, but he's one of the most extreme. At the end of the year, it seems like he always goes through that where he's struggling with his confidence. Where I think he's improved is he has found ways to help them win even when he's not making threes. He'll get an offensive rebound or get to the rim. ... A point guard who's good on ball screens gives them problems. You've got a chance if you have a really good point guard, you can match their physicality inside and then you've got some guys who can make some threes. I know that's a lot to ask for from somebody, but that's what you need. ... Landon Lucas is always in the right place from a rebounding perspective. He really cleans up the glass and gives them extra opportunities. He doesn't make many mistakes defensively. He's also not a guy who requires shots, so those other four guys can be more aggressive.
Who does Kansas want to see in the South Region? Colorado. Without a point guard who can create off the dribble for himself and his teammates, scoring on Kansas is very difficult. The eighth-seeded Buffs have a strong back-to-the-basket center in Josh Scott and a couple shooters, but they would have a hard time initiating offense off the dribble or dealing with Kansas' toughness in the paint.
Who does Kansas want to avoid in the South Region? Maryland. The Terps didn't finish the season strong, but they do possess some of the qualities mentioned above. They have one the best ball-screen point guards in the country in Melo Trimble, a couple of capable shooters and plenty of size inside. Are they tough enough to handle Kansas' physicality though? Maybe we'll find out in the Sweet 16.
http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/ncaab-...164911758.html