Here’s a recap of the Sports Hub STL Selection Show podcast, hosted by Brenden Schaeffer with panelists Mike Claiborne, Bob Ramsey, Kareem Rush, Chris Pelikan, and Earl Austin Jr.:
Key Topics Discussed:Missouri Tigers' Draw vs. Drake (6 vs. 11 Seed)Initial Reactions: Mizzou fans were generally optimistic about their draw against the 30-3 Drake Bulldogs, though the contrast in styles was noted. Mizzou plays an up-tempo game, while Drake slows things down.
Key Players: Kareem Rush and Mike Claiborne highlighted Drake’s disciplined defensive approach and strong point guard play. Mizzou’s success will depend on forcing Drake into a higher-paced game.
Matchup Concerns: Bob Ramsey pointed out Mizzou’s defensive lapses in recent losses and questioned whether they could maintain consistency. The team’s ability to score at a high rate gives them an advantage.
Potential Next Opponent: If Mizzou advances, a matchup with Texas Tech looms—a tougher challenge due to their defensive capabilities.
SIUE’s Excitement Over Tournament Berth Coach Brian Barone Interview: He expressed excitement about SIUE’s first-round matchup against Houston. The team will focus on boxing out and defensive discipline to handle Houston’s physicality.
Key Player: Ray'Sean Taylor was highlighted as SIUE’s top player. His ability to distribute and score will be crucial.
Underdog Mentality: The team embraces its role as a 16-seed and aims to make the most of their opportunity.
Illinois' Uncertain Matchup First-Four Opponent: Illinois awaits the winner of Texas vs. Xavier, which presents challenges since those teams will have momentum.
Concerns About Shooting: Illinois has struggled with three-point shooting consistency, which could impact their ability to advance.
Danger of First-Four Teams: Panelists noted how teams coming out of the First Four (like UCLA in 2021) often carry momentum and become dangerous.
General Tournament Outlook SEC Dominance: Earl Austin Jr. highlighted how dominant the SEC has been, comparing it to the Big East in 1985 when three teams made the Final Four. Florida, Auburn, and Tennessee were mentioned as potential Final Four teams.
Bracket Surprises: The panel questioned North Carolina's inclusion despite a 1-12 record in Quad 1 games. West Virginia’s omission was a surprise, with 111 out of 111 bracketologists predicting them to make it.
Mid-Major Cinderella Teams: Earl Austin Jr. mentioned potential upsets from teams like UC San Diego, Lipscomb, and Grand Canyon.
VCU vs. BYU: A clash of styles with BYU’s high-scoring offense against VCU’s physical defense was highlighted as a key first-round matchup.
Predictions and Final Thoughts Mizzou’s Ceiling: The panel generally agreed that Mizzou should make the second weekend (Sweet 16) but emphasized they need to avoid defensive lapses.
Final Four Picks: Auburn, Duke, Tennessee, and St. John’s were popular choices.
Tournament Style of Play: Bob Ramsey stressed that free throw shooting, star performances, and officiating will be critical in determining game outcomes.
Conclusion:The panel provided an in-depth breakdown of Mizzou, SIUE, and Illinois while also diving into broader tournament trends. They emphasized the strength of the SEC and the unpredictability of the First Four teams. A mix of expert analysis and player insights made for an engaging Selection Sunday discussion.
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