I began writing this an hour before the game started, so I’m going to make this quick. An incredible season ends tonight between the top two teams. This is the most anticipated National Championship since 2005, when North Carolina took down Illinois. Here’s my pick and what could be the gamechanger:
Baylor has the advantage in the backcourt. They have Jared Butler, who was snubbed of Big 12 Player of the Year; MaCio Teague, who can be a deadeye shooter at any point and Davion Mitchell, the nation’s defensive player of the year who can get buckets on the other hand.
Gonzaga has the advantage in the frontcourt. Drew Timme walks into the paint and scores at least 20 per game, and West Coast Conference Player of the Year Corey Kispert is the most effective shooter on the team. I didn’t know a lot about him at the beginning of the season, but when he dropped 25 points against Kansas, I fell in love with what he brings to the Zags’ offense.
Baylor has the better depth. The guy to watch out for is Matthew Mayer, who comes off the bench and would start on most collegiate rosters. He has a beautiful stroke shooting outside, and that can help them.
The matchup I’m excited for is Baylor’s Davion Mitchell vs. Gonzaga’s Jalen Suggs. They are two of the best guards in the nation, and Mitchell’s defense could beat Sugg’s offense. That is what I think is the gamechanger.
My pick has to be Gonzaga. This game could be either a terrific offensive game or a defensive game. Both teams have some of the top offensives and defensives in the country. With the dominance we’ve seen all year, I think Mark Few and Gonzaga are well overdue for a National Championship, and the drought of an undefeated champion ends tonight.
Calhoun's Corner 