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The key for Arizona will be the defense against Williams and Battier. These two guys can shoot the lights out from anywhere, and the Cats must not lose them. It will be interesting to see whether Jefferson, who has been an absolute stopper, matches up against Williams, Dunleavy, or possibly Battier. ‘Zona will also attack with some zone, which was very effective against Michigan State. Loren Woods must assert himself the way he has over the past few weeks, and this will take a lot of pressure off of the outside game, which is good, but not great. Michael Wright must also play consistently, which he has not done in the last few games. If Arenas, Wright, and Woods are at the top of their game, look out. Arizona has been good at staying out of foul trouble, so they should not have the problem that Maryland had against Duke.
For Duke, they need some help outside of Williams and Battier. Boozer was a major lift against the Terps, and the Blue Devils will need him to occupy Woods and Wright down low. Also, if Duhon can hit some outside shots, Duke will be tough. Casey Sanders and Nate James will need to be strong off of the bench to match Arizona’s depth. Most of all, the big two must stay out of foul trouble and hit their shots, although that’s what the great players do. If Duke is hot from behind the arc, Arizona will have its hands full.
This game should be a classic. These two teams are loaded, have the tradition, and the experience. Expect this one to possibly go down to the wire as Arizona and Duke look for the ultimate glory.
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