Not so Sweet for the Zags
By Mark Halpern
The Razorbacks did something that has happened to the Bulldogs many times before. The #4 Razorbacks took down the mighty favorites Zaga Bulldogs in a stunning victory 74-68. The Bulldogs once again came out and underperformed in the first half. They never regained a lead from then on out. What a game for J.D. Notae as he led Arkansas with 21pts 6reb and 6ast. Jaylin Willams and Trey wade also had big point nights, with each racking up 15. Arkansas seemed more prepared than Gonzaga here. Not to take away from the excellent play of Drew Timme, who had another stellar game with 25pts and 7reb and Chet Holmgren (possible 1st pick overall) also had 11pts and 14 rebounds. Another year in which the Zags were favored to be let down again. The Razorbacks Have their hands full with the Blue Devils seeming unstoppable.
Even though I didn’t pick them to win it all, I am so happy to see the magnificent coach K is still dancing with his team, beating a formidable opponent in the Red Raiders. This game was a great back and forth battle for the entire game. Paulo Banchero has had a fantastic tournament and yesterday put up an amazing stat line of 22pts 4reb 4ast; Mark Williams also came up big with 16pts and 8reb. All of the Duke starting lineup had a hand in keeping their coach’s hopes alive to cut down that final net. Now the Red Raiders were picked to win this game by most of us here at SIN, but many analysts felt the same. Bryson Williams played hard from the moment the tipoff happened and had a good night 21pts and 5reb; Kevin Obanor had a fantastic night producing a double double with 10pts and 10reb. I don’t think the red Raiders were outmatched or even outplayed. I can say they were outcoached, and Duke had only one thing on their mind: to move on. Duke faces a Razorback team that just took down the #1 Bulldogs. I am sure coach K and coach Mussleman are burning the midnight oil.
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