I think UCONN played the best defense I have seen all year against Florida in the first semi-final. They totally disrupted a very good Florida team.
Kentucky on the other hand has a never give up mentality in the last few weeks. They hit the boards with force. Their defense is also pretty good but they can bog down on offense from time to time.
You know I'm biased as a huge UK fan but I honestly can't begin to predict this game. UCONN has looked great but they got drilled by 30+ against Louisville just a few weeks ago. Which team are they? The powerhouse they showed against Florida or the also ran they played against Louisville.
UK has played good enough to win in the tournament but not spectacular. They have the lowest winning margin of any team to ever make it to the final game in history. Late game heroics by Aaron Harrison has won each of the last three games. Can he do it again?
If Kentucky's guards are able to penetrate against the speed of UCONN I think they will have the advantage because of their size. On the other hand if Shabazz Napier and his running mate in the back court shut the Harrison twins down it could be a long night for UK.
Here is my totally biased and wild guess at a prediction:
Both teams will get in foul trouble. The game will be in the 60's. UK will win the battle of the boards. Neither team will shoot a high percentage from the floor. Down the stretch UCONN will make a living at the free throw line. Dakari Johnson will get a huge rebound put back for two to tie the game in regulations. Kentucky's size will make it tough on UCONN in the extra period and UK will pound out a 68- 63 overtime victory for Kentucky's 9th National Championship.
