We get it; the NCAA tournament final was an ugly game. We’re not about to disagree either. It’s nice that they played hard and with intensity, but in a national final is it too much to ask that a team makes, oh, 25 percent of its shots as well?
But this is what happens when you don’t get the best teams in a final. And the reason that happens is this: the inability to keep top players in school.
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Underdogs and low seeds advancing are nice, but what’s even better is seeing the elite teams play at a high level.
One of these teams should do that next season. If …
North Carolina » The Tar Heels could be scary if Harrison Barnes returns (that groan you just heard is the Wizards front office). But it’s not just him. If John Henson and Tyler Zeller both come back, the Tar Heels are the unanimous preseason pick.
Kentucky » Brandon Knight is undecided, but if he returns he’ll be paired with Doron Lamb and the nation’s best recruiting class — including 6-foot-10 Anthony Davis, possibly the top pick in 2012. Even without Knight, the Wildcats will be loaded. And then everyone will leave after one year. Again.
Ohio State » National player of the year finalist Jared Sullinger has said he will return, which his father also has said on multiple occasions. If junior guard William Buford comes back, as expected, then the Buckeyes return four of their top seven players and add another strong recruiting class. Watch out for Deshaun Thomas next season.
Duke » Kyle Singler and Nolan Smith are (highly accomplished) seniors who will be missed. And even if Kyrie Irving leaves, which by all accounts he will, the Vitales should contend thanks to the nation’s No.?1 recruit, guard Austin Rivers, Seth Curry and the Plumlee boys.
Texas » OK, the assumption is that eventually Jordan Hamilton and Tristan Thompson will change their minds and turn pro. But if they don’t, the Longhorns will be a force. Of course, coach Rick Barnes returns and that means more tourney disappointment.
