2009 Big East Tournament Preview – What to Watch

Who’s Hot?

Louisville – The Cardinals won the Big East regular season conference title outright and have put themselves into the conversation for a #1 seed in the NCAA Tournament, despite what Doug Gottlieb may claim. Slick Rick’s squad have won seven strait games since their no-show at Notre Dame in mid February and appear to be gaining momentum at the right time.

Pittsburgh – The Panthers have won 10 of their last 11 games dating back to January 31, the only blemish being a loss at Providence. Their impressive stretch has included two big wins over Connecticut and win over Marquette. As I mentioned above, the Panthers always show up at MSG.

Villanova – Jay Wright’s boys are on a roll and tinks to Marquette collapsing down the stretch, the Wildcats grabbed the #4 seed in the Big East tournament meaning they will not have to play until Thursday. ‘Nova has won 11 of their last 13 games and will not be intimidated by anyone in Big East play. Do not be surprised if Jay Wright makes some noise this week.

Who’s Not?

Marquette – The Golden Eagles clearly stumbled to the finish line in conference play. The injury to Dominic James was a big blow, but then to have to play Pitt, Louisville, UConn, and Syracuse on top of it made it that much tougher for Buzz Williams and Co.

Georgetown – The Hoyas seemed to give their NCAA Tournament hopes a boost with a big road win at Villanova on February 28, but then promptly turned around and lost to St. John’s. The loss to the Johnnies put Georgetown in the position to have to run the table at MSG.

DePaul – I love Jerry Wainwright, but this season has been a disaster. They failed to win a single game during the Big East regular season and have to beat the “Nati to not go 0-fer 2009. Maybe next year…but probably not.

Players to Watch

Terrence Williams – F – UofL – The man does it all. T-Will capped off his spectacular senior season with 20 points, 7 assists, 6 rebounds, and 6 steals against West Virginia. He’s capable of a triple-double every game and in his final Big East tournament could put on a show.

Most Versatile Player in the country?

Sam Young – F – Pitt – The reigning Big East tournament MVP finished off his senior season with a 31 point and 10 rebounds performance against UConn. Pittsburgh is very tough in NYC, so look for him to put up big numbers.

Scottie Reynold – PG – Villanova – Reynolds can put up some big numbers for a point guard. He has put up 40 and 31 point performances in Big East play. Reynolds is the type of player who can put a team on his back and carry them to victory. Keep an eye on Scottie Reynolds, and Jay Wright as well since he is the best dressed coach in America.

Low Seed Most Likely To Make a Run

Notre Dame – I must start off by saying I don’t believe any team outside of the top 4 seeds have a chance. However, if a low seed is going to make a run, I’ll take the Fighting Irish. They have an NCAA Tournament berth at stake and if they come out on fire offensively can shoot themselves into the Big East finals.

My Pick

Louisville – In my first Big East breakdown a few weeks back I prophecized Pitt would win the Big East tournament. However, I’ve since been swayed by the Cardinals recent performances and will now pick Louisville. I believe the Cardinals match up well with Pitt, plus Louisville has the motivation of playing for #1 seed in the Big Dance and there is not one better motivator in college basketball than Slick Rick Pitino.