The 2024 NCAA Men’s Final Four is set, and it’s shaping up to be an exciting weekend of college basketball. The two Final Four matchups are NC State vs. Purdue followed by Alabama vs. Connecticut. While both games feature double-digit favorites, anything can happen in the Final Four.
Connecticut: The Team to Beat
Connecticut has been the most dominant team in the tournament, and they are the heavy favorites to win it all. They boast a suffocating defense, holding eight of the eleven top 25 rated offensive teams they played this season under their total points average.
UConn Huskies players celebrating
Their offense is no slouch either, led by stars like Adama Sanogo and Jordan Hawkins. While they haven’t been shooting the three-ball particularly well, their ability to dominate inside and on defense has been more than enough to overcome that weakness.
Potential Upsets and Championship Matchup Predictions
While Connecticut is the clear favorite, upsets are always possible in the NCAA Tournament. NC State, in particular, has been on a magical run, winning nine straight games and exceeding expectations. They have been playing their best basketball at the right time and could give Purdue a run for their money.
NC State Wolfpack players celebrating a victory
If NC State were to upset Purdue, they would face a monumental task against Connecticut, likely as 15.5-point underdogs. However, their recent hot streak makes them a team no one should completely count out.
On the other side of the bracket, Alabama would face a similar challenge if they managed to upset Connecticut. While they have the offensive firepower to compete with anyone, their defense would need to play significantly better than they have all tournament to overcome the Huskies.
Alabama Crimson Tide players celebrating
If both favorites advance, the championship game between Connecticut and Purdue would be a clash of styles. Purdue, led by Zach Edey, relies heavily on their size and three-point shooting. Connecticut, on the other hand, is a more well-rounded team, excelling on both ends of the court.
A championship matchup between Alabama and NC State would be a dream come true for fans of Cinderella stories. Both teams have been counted out at various points in the tournament but have continued to defy the odds.
Final Thoughts
The 2024 NCAA Men’s Final Four is set to be an exciting weekend of basketball. While Connecticut is the heavy favorite, upsets are always possible, and any of the four teams could cut down the nets on Monday night.
