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The Quarterback Question- What Should the Giants Do? Part 3

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Photo Cred: AP Photo/Adam Hunger

If the Giants pass on Shedeur Sanders, they will likely take the “Best Player Available” approach. That decision comes down to two blue-chip prospects: Abdul Carter and Travis Hunter. While Carter is an explosive edge rusher and linebacker with game-changing potential, New York’s biggest strength already lies in its defensive front. With dominant forces like Dexter Lawrence, Kayvon Thibodeaux, and Brian Burns, plus the addition of Chauncey Gholston, the Giants are well-stocked at the position.

r/Patriots - Odds are high that Travis Hunter or Abdul Carter will be a Patriot

Photo Cred: Reddit

Additionally, this draft class is particularly deep at defensive line and linebacker, meaning the Giants can still find impact players later—potentially with Deone Walker in the third round, per my mock draft. Hunter, on the other hand, is a rare, generational talent who not only boasts elite skills but also fills multiple positional needs. With Adoree’ Jackson’s departure, Hunter could step in as a starting cornerback opposite Paulson Adebo, giving the Giants a formidable duo in the secondary.

His versatility as a two-way player also makes him an asset on offense, where he could take snaps at receiver alongside Malik Nabers, providing the Giants with a dynamic playmaker who impacts both sides of the ball. If the Giants solve their immediate quarterback concerns by signing a veteran in free agency, they will have the flexibility to take the most talented player available at No. 3 while still addressing the quarterback position later in the draft. That’s where Jaxson Dart comes into play.

Dart is an intriguing prospect with elite ball placement, toughness, and mobility. While he may not carry the same hype as the top quarterbacks in this class, he has the raw tools and ceiling to develop into a franchise quarterback. His experience in a pro-style offense at Ole Miss, combined with his natural playmaking ability, makes him a worthy investment. Additionally, his connection to Giants history—having played at the same college as franchise legend Eli Manning—adds an extra layer of intrigue for New York fans.

Jaxson Dart's best NFL fits: Jets, Rams, Colts make sense in draft

Photo Cred: USA Today

Given the demand for quarterbacks, the Giants may need to trade back into the late first round to secure Dart, as teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers could be in the mix for a quarterback at that point. However, if it means landing a generational talent like Hunter while still securing their potential quarterback of the future, it’s a move worth considering. By executing this strategy, the Giants could walk away with both a dynamic playmaker and a promising young signal-caller, setting them up for long-term success.

Yankees Unleash Game-Changing “Torpedo Bats” in 2025 Season

Photo Cred: Twins Daily

As the 2025 MLB season gets underway, the New York Yankees have introduced one of the most talked-about changes—not just to their lineup, but to their bats. Dubbed the “Torpedo Bats,” these custom-designed bats are built to maximize power and performance, adding a new dimension to the Yankees’ offense and giving their sluggers an extra edge. The Torpedo Bats are the result of cutting-edge engineering and material science, with a focus on optimizing the sweet spot, enhancing bat speed, and increasing overall power at the plate.

What are new MLB torpedo bats? Are they banned? Victus, Marucci sells them

Photo Cred: USA Today

Made from a hybrid of carbon fiber and a special metal alloy, they are both lightweight and durable, capable of withstanding the high-speed collisions of today’s fast-paced game. While the Yankees have long been known for their power-hitting, featuring stars like Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton, they’ve struggled with consistency in clutch moments. The introduction of the Torpedo Bats aims to change that, particularly benefiting hitters like Austin Wells, Cody Bellinger, Anthony Volpe, and Jazz Chisholm Jr.

To develop these bats, the Yankees consulted an MIT physicist who discovered that Wells, Bellinger, Volpe, and Chisholm frequently make contact lower on the bat, near the nameplate, rather than on the barrel. The Torpedo Bat’s design features a lower barrel, effectively shifting the sweet spot to align with their natural swing tendencies, improving their chances of delivering in key moments. The early results have been striking.

Aaron Leanhardt discusses invention of Torpedo bats

Photo Cred: MLB

The Yankees swept the Milwaukee Brewers in a dominant series, highlighted by a 20-9 victory in Game 2, where they smashed nine home runs. Former Yankee pitcher Nestor Cortes, now with the Brewers, gave up five home runs—four of them hit by players using the new bat. Despite the success of the Torpedo Bats, not all Yankees players are making the switch.

When asked why he hasn’t tried the new bat, Aaron Judge told Bryan Hoch, “What I’ve done the past couple of seasons speaks for itself.”

Looking ahead, the impact of these bats could extend beyond the Yankees. Other teams are taking notice, with the Atlanta Braves already placing an order and Minnesota Twins catcher Ryan Jeffers debuting his own Torpedo Bat against the St. Louis Cardinals. If these bats continue to deliver, they could revolutionize power hitting across the league, giving teams a new weapon in high-pressure situations.

The Quarterback Question- What Should the Giants Do? Part 2

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Photo Cred: USA Today

This is one of the most realistic and logical paths for the Giants if Shedeur Sanders remains on the board after the Titans and Browns make their selections. The team is in desperate need of a franchise quarterback to reset the direction of the organization, and Sanders is one of the top talents in this year’s draft. While Cameron Ward is widely regarded as the best QB prospect, Sanders stands firmly as the second-best option in what is considered a top-heavy class. After Ward, he may be the only quarterback truly worthy of a selection this high.

Photo Cred: USA Today

The Giants have heavily scouted Cameron Ward, attending all of his games last season, while Ward himself fueled speculation by wearing Giants-themed cleats at the Alamo Bowl. However, Sanders brings a unique combination of talent and star power. As the son of Deion Sanders, aka “Coach Prime,” he comes with an aura of confidence, swagger, and leadership that could inject much-needed energy into a struggling franchise.

Beyond the name recognition, Sanders has the skill set to back it up. Playing in a pro-style offense at Colorado, he showcased exceptional toughness, accuracy, and pocket presence while displaying one of the best deep balls in the class. His ability to remain poised under pressure and deliver precise throws makes him an enticing option for a team looking to stabilize the quarterback position for years to come.

If Sanders is still available when the Giants are on the clock at No. 3, it will be difficult for general manager Joe Schoen and the front office to pass on him, particularly given the team’s recent struggles at the position. After investing heavily in Daniel Jones only to see him fail to meet expectations, the organization is in full reset mode under center. Signing Jameis Winston provides a short-term bridge, and the Giants have also been linked to veterans like Aaron Rodgers and Russell Wilson.

Photo Cred: Giants.com

Bringing in Sanders would allow him time to develop behind a proven starter, reducing the immediate pressure for him to perform while ensuring the team has its long-term answer at quarterback. In a league where elite quarterbacks dictate success, this could be the Giants’ best shot at securing a future star. Sanders has the tools, the mindset, and the pedigree to thrive in New York, and if he’s available, the Giants might not think twice about making him the face of their franchise.

Approved 2025 Playing Rules, Bylaws, and Resolutions

Photo Cred: USA Today

NFL clubs adopted the following rules change proposals, bylaws and resolutions today at the NFL Annual Meeting in Palm Beach, Florida.

2025 Approved Playing Rules Summary

1-A.  By Competition Committee; amends Rule 6, to make permanent the new form of free kick play implemented in 2024 designed to 1) resemble a typical scrimmage play by aligning players on both teams closer together and restricting movement to reduce space and speed and 2) promote more returns, subject to the following changes: (a) modifies the alignment requirements for receiving team players in the setup zone; (b) changes the dead ball spot after a touchback to the 35-yard line if the ball lands in the end zone and is downed in the end zone by the receiving team or goes out of bounds behind the receiving team’s goal line.

2-A.  By Competition Committee; aligns the postseason and regular season overtime rules by granting both teams an opportunity to possess the ball regardless of the outcome of the first possession, subject to a 10-minute overtime period in the regular season.

3.      By Competition Committee; amends Rule 15, to expand Instant Replay’s ability to advise the on-field officials on specific, objective aspects of a play and/or to address game administration issues when clear and obvious video evidence is present.

2025 Approved Bylaws Summary

1.         By Competition Committee; amends Article XVII, Section 17.16 of the Constitution and Bylaws, to permit clubs to designate two players for return at the roster reduction to 53 players.

2.         By Competition Committee; amends Article XVII, Section 17.16 of the Constitution and Bylaws, to permit clubs participating in the postseason to receive two additional DFRs increasing the maximum from 8 to 10.

3.         By Competition Committee; amends Article XVIII, Section 18.5 of the Constitution and Bylaws, to insert Point Differential as the third tiebreaker for awarding contracts.

2025 Approved Resolutions Summary

G-1A.  By Pittsburgh; for one-year only, permits clubs to have one video or phone call with no more than five prospective Unrestricted Free Agent during the Two-Day Negotiation Period. Permits clubs to make travel arrangements with such players upon agreeing to terms.

G-2.    By Baltimore, Cleveland, Houston, Las Vegas, Minnesota, Philadelphia, and Washington; to permit clubs to prepare kicking footballs (“K-Balls”) before game day, similar to the process permitted for game footballs.

G-3.    By Washington; to permit clubs that may qualify for the postseason to obtain scouting credentials for two consecutive games (Weeks 17 and 18) played by a potential postseason opponent. Also requires clubs hosting Wild Card games to provide scouting credentials to all teams within the same conference who are participating in the postseason.

For more from NFL Communications, visit  media.nfl.com

Has NIL Ended Cinderella Runs in the NCAA Tournament?

Photo Cred: USA Today

The first two rounds of the NCAA tournament took place this past weekend, narrowing the field down to sixteen teams. While the first weekend featured some exciting games and even a buzzer-beater, college basketball fans were left somewhat disappointed. Compared to previous years, this tournament has lacked major upsets and Cinderella runs by lower-seeded teams advancing to the second week.

In the first round, only five double-digit seeds pulled off victories—a decline from last year’s eight. Two of those wins came from No. 10 seeds defeating No. 7 seeds, which is not considered a significant upset. Additionally, No. 12 Colorado State beat No. 5 Memphis, but betting markets had favored Colorado State, diminishing the underdog narrative. One of the best parts of March Madness is rooting for smaller schools and embracing their underdog stories.

Photo Cred: USA Today

These teams, often without NBA prospects or national recognition, leave lasting memories with their heart and determination on the biggest stage. Sometimes, an entire team captures the spotlight, while in other cases, a single player steals the show. Recent history has provided several memorable Cinderella stories. Last year, DJ Burns and NC State made a thrilling run to the Final Four. In 2022, Doug Edert and Saint Peter’s shocked the world by reaching the Elite Eight.

Sister Jean and Loyola Chicago captivated audiences in 2018 with their Final Four journey, and Florida Gulf Coast, famously known as “Dunk City,” made a magical Sweet 16 run in 2013. The list of legendary Cinderella teams is endless. This year, however, upsets in the first round failed to translate into deeper runs. Of the five double-digit seeds that won in the first round, only one—No. 10 Arkansas—advanced to the second weekend. However, Arkansas, coached by Hall of Famer John Calipari and ranked No. 16 in the preseason, hardly qualifies as a Cinderella team.

Photo Cred: USA Today

While underdog stories are a beloved part of the tournament, they often end in lopsided losses. The absence of Cinderella teams this year may lead to more competitive matchups in the later rounds. While nothing is guaranteed—any team can dominate another on a given night—the Sweet 16 and beyond promise stronger clashes on paper. A major factor affecting the tournament’s landscape is the combination of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals and the transfer portal.

In previous years, players from mid-major programs often transferred to higher-profile schools, but now entire teams are built through transfers. Of the sixteen remaining teams, only one has a starting lineup composed entirely of players who have been with the program for their entire collegiate careers. Every other team features at least one transfer, with some having completely revamped rosters.

While any school can recruit transfers, not all can afford them. This year’s remaining teams illustrate this reality, as they come from the wealthiest athletic conferences. Of the Sweet 16 teams, seven hail from the SEC, four from the Big Ten, four from the Big 12, and one from the ACC. These power conferences, backed by lucrative TV contracts and substantial financial resources, have a clear advantage in assembling top-tier rosters through the transfer market.

Though this is just one tournament, fans can see the direction in which college basketball is headed. Amateurism in collegiate sports, especially football and basketball, is fading, with the game increasingly resembling professional leagues. While this shift may reduce the frequency of Cinderella stories, it could lead to higher-quality matchups in the later rounds of the tournament.

 

Texas Fires Basketball Coach Rodney Terry, Hires Sean Miller

Photo Cred: USA Today

The University of Texas has parted ways with men’s basketball coach Rodney Terry after two-plus seasons at the helm. Terry compiled a 62-37 record with the Longhorns. Despite his solid win percentage, he was unable to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament—a key expectation for a program like Texas. This season, the Longhorns fell to Xavier in the First Four, marking another early exit. Texas has long aspired to establish itself as a dominant force in college basketball, but postseason struggles have kept the program from reaching the elite tier.

Final Four is Arizona coach Sean Miller's healthy 'obsession'

Photo Cred: USA Today

The Longhorns have not advanced past the Elite Eight since 2003. Now in the SEC the competition is even tougher.  In a stunning development, Texas has tapped Sean Miller as its new head coach, luring him away from Xavier. Miller, a well-respected veteran of the coaching ranks, has built a reputation as a tactician and program-builder, known for producing high-level teams that compete on the national stage.

Before his coaching career, Miller was a standout point guard at the University of Pittsburgh. During his collegiate playing days, he appeared in 128 games, scoring 1,282 points (10.0 points per game) while adding 744 assists (5.8 per game), 261 rebounds (2.0 per game), and 102 steals. His ability to understand the game from a player has translated into a coaching career.

“Coach Miller is a guy who consistently builds winning programs, develops great players, and is an absolutely brilliant basketball tactician,” said Kevin Eltife, Chairman of the UT System Board of Regents. “He’s without a doubt the perfect choice to lead our men’s basketball program. When you watched his teams at Arizona and Xavier, they were extremely well-coached, won at the highest level, made deep runs in the NCAA Tournament, and played a fun and exciting brand of basketball. I couldn’t be more thrilled to watch him bring all of that to our program here on the Forty Acres.”

Xavier's Sean Miller hired at Texas to replace Rodney Terry

Photo Cred: Big East

During his tenure at Arizona he transformed the Wildcats into a perennial powerhouse, winning multiple Pac-12 titles and making deep NCAA Tournament runs. Prior to Arizona, he led Xavier to four straight NCAA Tournament appearances, solidifying his reputation as one of the top minds in college basketball. Miller brings an extensive track record of success to Texas, having led his teams to double digit NCAA Tournament appearances.

In those, his squads advanced beyond the first round, showcasing his ability to prepare teams for March Madness. He has reached the Elite Eight five times, demonstrating a consistent ability to push teams deep into the tournament, though the one knock against him remains his inability to break through to the Final Four. Over 20 seasons as a collegiate head coach, Miller has compiled an impressive 487-196 (.713) record, with eight regular-season conference titles and four conference tournament championships.

His teams have been known for their defensive intensity, strong guard play, and efficient offensive execution, all of which align with Texas’s aspirations to compete at the highest level. With the Longhorns aiming to reestablish themselves as a perennial powerhouse, Miller is expected to bring stability, elite recruiting, and a championship-contending mindset to the program. Texas boasts some of the best facilities in college basketball  with a passionate fan base.

Miller’s hiring signals a renewed commitment to elevating the program and competing with the best teams in the country. Looking ahead, Miller’s first priorities will be solidifying the roster, evaluating current players, and making key additions through recruiting and the transfer portal. Now, all eyes turn to Miller as he takes the reins in Austin, with Texas fans hoping he can finally deliver the deep tournament runs and sustained success that have eluded the program for years.

Giants Big Decision: What to Do with the 3rd Pick? Part 1

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Photo Cred: USA Today

The biggest question facing the New York Giants this offseason is what to do with their third overall draft pick. Despite holding a premium selection, a late-season win against the Indianapolis Colts knocked them out of contention for the coveted first pick. Now, General Manager Joe Schoen must navigate a less-than-ideal draft position in hopes of securing a franchise-altering player.

This year’s draft class features two top-tier quarterbacks: Cam Ward, the projected first-overall pick expected to land with the Tennessee Titans, and Shedeur Sanders, a dynamic athlete with the tools to succeed in the NFL. However, Sanders lacks the surefire, top-of-the-draft grade teams typically seek for an early selection. Below them, intriguing second-round prospects like Jaxson Dart and Jalen Milroe offer potential alternatives if the Giants opt for the best player available at No. 3. That could mean selecting either two-way star and Heisman winner Travis Hunter or elite edge rusher Abdul Carter.

Cam Ward pro day results: Miami QB makes a statement before NFL draft

Photo Cred: USA Today

Other options include trading back to stockpile picks or attempting an aggressive move up to No. 1 to select Ward. However, Giants insider Jordan Raanan has reported that such a move is unlikely, as the Titans appear committed to keeping the top pick. Nevertheless, let’s explore all possible scenarios for the Giants, including potential trade packages and a prediction of what they’ll ultimately do when they’re on the clock in Green Bay this April.


Option #1: Make the Titans an Offer They Can’t Refuse – Trade Up for Cam Ward

This would be a dream scenario for Giants fans—but an unlikely one. For the Titans to part ways with a generational quarterback prospect, it would take a massive haul, especially considering Tennessee’s lack of quarterback signings in free agency. Still, if the Giants view Ward as their franchise cornerstone, it’s worth at least making an aggressive offer.

So what would that look like?

New York owns multiple high-value picks, including No. 3, No. 34, and No. 65—all at the top of their respective rounds. A possible package could include these picks, a player, and even a 2025 second-round selection to sweeten the deal. It’s a hefty price, but if Ward is the guy Schoen and head coach Brian Daboll believe can turn the franchise around, it may be necessary. Another scenario involves a quarterback swap.

If the Giants acquire Russell Wilson, they could send Jameis Winston to Tennessee along with their second- and third-round picks this year and a future second- or third-rounder. This would allow the Titans to maintain some stability at quarterback while still picking up additional draft capital. Additionally, if Tennessee is more interested in Shedeur Sanders or another blue-chip prospect like Hunter or Carter, moving back to No. 3 wouldn’t necessarily prevent them from getting their guy. However, given the reports that the Titans are fully committed to Ward, this trade-up scenario remains highly unlikely.

LSU Advances in March Madness to the Sweet 16

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Photo Cred: USA Today

The LSU Tigers delivered a commanding performance in the second round of Women’s March Madness, cruising past Florida State, 101-71, to secure a spot in the Sweet 16 for the third consecutive season. From start to finish, LSU displayed an all-around dominant effort, with multiple players contributing significantly on both ends of the court. Mikaylah Williams led the charge with 28 points, while Annesah Morrow showcased her versatility with 26 points, 11 rebounds, and 7 assists.

Sa’Myah Smith added a double-double with 20 points, 12 rebounds, and 6 assists, and Flau’Jae Johnson contributed 13 points to round out the Tigers’ offensive explosion. While Florida State’s Ta’Niya Latson, the nation’s leading scorer, put up an impressive 23 points in the first half, LSU’s defense made key adjustments, limiting her to just 7 points in the second half. The Tigers’ defensive effort played a crucial role in securing the decisive victory.

Photo Cred: Raven Nichols

Up next, LSU will face NC State in the Spokane 1 Regional this weekend. The Tigers previously defeated the Wolfpack 82-65 in November at the Baha Mar Pink Flamingo Championship, adding intrigue to the upcoming matchup. LSU’s offensive firepower has been on full display in the first two rounds of the NCAA Tournament, with the Tigers surpassing 100 points in both games. Head coach Kim Mulkey emphasized the importance of teamwork and cohesion as the tournament progresses.

“Winning and having everybody score the ball and contribute is just a lot more fun, and it takes you a long way,” Mulkey said in a postgame interview. “I say this in the playoffs: Everybody has got to be on the same page. And I feel like in two games, we’ve proven we’re on the same page.”

LSU's Mikaylah Williams, Flau'jae Johnson ignite Tigers vs. FSU

Photo Cred: USA Today

Notable Tournament Highlights

  • Florida State’s Early Success: Before facing LSU, Florida State secured a dominant 94-59 victory over George Mason in the first round, marking the Seminoles’ first NCAA Tournament win since 2019. Latson led all scorers with 28 points, shooting 50% from the field, along with five rebounds and two assists.

  • George Mason’s Historic Run: Despite falling to Florida State, George Mason made history by earning its first NCAA Tournament appearance. Led by standout sophomore Zahirah Walton, the Patriots captured their first Atlantic 10 Championship and set a program record with 27 wins this season.

  • LSU’s First-Round Dominance: The Tigers opened their tournament run with a resounding 103-48 victory over San Diego State. The Aztecs, known for their strong bench play, managed just 18 bench points against LSU’s stifling defense.

  • SDSU’s Tournament Journey: San Diego State’s return to the NCAA Tournament came 13 years after their last appearance—ironically, a first-round loss to LSU. Aztecs head coach Stacie Terry-Hutson, who was an assistant at LSU before taking the SDSU job, led her team to the Big Dance by securing the Mountain West title in a thrilling triple-overtime victory over Wyoming.

With momentum on their side, LSU looks to continue its dominant run as they prepare for NC State in the Sweet 16. If the Tigers maintain their high-powered offense and defensive intensity, they could be on track for another deep tournament push.

Falcons send Golden Grizzlies Packing & Advance to Finals

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Photo Cred: ACHA

The Air Force Academy Falcons are headed to the ACHA Finals after a thrilling 3-2 victory over the Oakland Golden Grizzlies, securing their spot in the championship series for the first time in program history. The Golden Grizzlies struck early, taking the lead when a loose puck trickled past Air Force goalie Kely Kane. Forward Jules Sainte-Marie was quick to capitalize, tapping it into the open net to put Oakland up 1-0.

The Falcons responded late in the first period, with Jason Kleinhans finding the back of the net to tie the game at 1-1 heading into the second. Air Force came out firing in the second period, and Cooper Boulanger played a pivotal role in their offensive surge. Boulanger scored two goals, one of which came on the power play, to give the Falcons a commanding 3-1 lead. His performance on the ice was a testament to his skill and composure, providing a much-needed spark for Air Force.

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Photo Cred: Noah Stalker

Despite facing a two-goal deficit in the third, Oakland wasn’t ready to go down without a fight. The Golden Grizzlies mounted a late push, and it was Jake McCatty’s faceoff win that led to a crucial tip-in goal by Tommy Davis, cutting the lead to 3-2. The momentum was shifting, and Oakland appeared to have a chance to tie things up. However, Air Force held strong defensively in the closing minutes, preventing any further threats and securing the win.

This victory marks a historic achievement for the Falcons, sending them to the ACHA Finals for the first time in their program’s history, where they will face off against the Hope Flying Dutchmen in what promises to be an exciting championship matchup. For Oakland, while this loss is a tough one to swallow, it marks the bittersweet end of an outstanding season. The Golden Grizzlies should take pride in their accomplishments and look ahead to building on this success for the future. With a solid foundation and strong leadership, Oakland has every reason to believe they’ll be a force to reckon with in the seasons to come.

Best Teams to Not Win a NCAA Championship Since the 2000’s

Photo Cred: tempe trophy

The Madness of March has a way of captivating the sports world. However, since the turn of the century, there have been many title favorites, future Hall of Famer’s, and legendary coaches who fell short of winning it all. Let’s take a look at a few of the most talented teams that didn’t secure the NCAA Championship since the 2000’s.

Kentucky 2014-2015

Kentucky Wildcats' 2014-15 highlights

Photo Cred: USA Today


This Kentucky Wildcats team may be the most talented team in college basketball history. The names on the 2014-15 roster speak for themselves. The team was filled with NBA talent with Karl-Anthony Towns, Willie Cauley-Stein, Devin Booker, Andrew Harrison, Aaron Harrison, Trey Lyles, and Tyler Ulis. With so much talent no player averaged more than 26 minutes per game. The team went undefeated in the regular season and Confrence tournament play. But the dream season ended with a 38-1 record and lost to Wisconson in the Elite 8. UK finished with the No. 6 offense and No. 1 defense in the country.

Gonzaga 2016-2017

How Zach Collins makes the most of his minutes for NCAA tournament top seed  Gonzaga

Photo Cred: USA Today


In Mark Few’s 18th season as head coach, the 37-2 Gonzaga Bulldogs came within a whisker of winning the championship. This team finally broke into the Final Four and ended the season as the No. 1 team.They would ultimately lose to North Carolina in the national championship game. The team included future NBA big man Zach Collins who averaged 10 points, 5.9 rebounds and 1.7 blocks. Guard Nigel Williams-Goss was First Team All Confrence and was a consensus All-American Second Team. Gonzaga boasted the nation’s best defense and a Top 15 offense.

UCLA 2007-08

Russell Westbrook, Kevin Love recall UCLA thermostat battles

Photo Cred: USA Today


The 2007-08 UCLA Bruins, led by head coach Ben Howland, made three consecutive Final Fours. It featured two future NBA stars in Kevin Love and Russel Westbrook. And Westbrook was still evolving into the explosive player he became. Love averaged 17 points and 11 rebounds. The Bruins finished with a 35-4 record with Luc Richard Mbah a Moute providing stifling defense and Darren Collison orchestrating the offense. Westbrook spent much of the season playing off the ball. This was a loaded team that came up just short, but their talent was undeniable.