The Final Four is finally here. With two extremely compelling matchups, an already exciting NCAA tournament should end in thrilling fashion. Oregon faces North Carolina in a game between two experienced programs. Both teams suffered devastating defeats last season. While Kris Jenkins sunk North Carolina’s National Title dreams, Oregon was on the receiving end of Oklahoma’s onslaught. There are many intriguing matchups surrounding this game. Here are the biggest storylines.
Dillon Brooks is due for a big game
When Chris Boucher suffered a torn ACL, most analysts thought Brooks was going to take an even bigger role.
They expected him to shoot more often. Although the dynamic swingman has played fairly well, he hasn’t produced a big time performance yet. Tyler Dorsey has emerged as one of the top players in the tournament. Jordan Bell was outstanding against Michigan and Kansas. Brooks hasn’t shot well or scored over 19 points in the past four games.
For Oregon to reach the Final Four without their second-team All American playing up to his usual high standards is remarkable. It shows how they aren’t completely dependent on him. Brooks finds himself in a favorable matchup against North Carolina. Oregon’s three-guard system will pose problems for bigger teams. Theo Pinson will likely have to guard Dorsey.
That could leave Isaiah Hicks as their lone option.
Brooks is too crafty and quick for opposing big men. North Carolina may have no other choice. This is his moment to shine. Whether it’s driving to the basket or draining outside jumpers, expect the potential first round pick to shine on an enormous stage.
North Carolina’s size advantage
On the other side, North Carolina’s massive frontcourt could manhandle Oregon in the paint. Losing Boucher was eventually going to affect them. They have faced smaller teams during this memorable run. Michigan and Kansas are fast paced teams that rely on guard play rather than scoring inside. That isn’t the case with North Carolina.
They are the best rebounding team in the country. Kennedy Meeks, Isaiah Hicks, Tony Bradley, and Luke Maye know how to wear teams down.
A smart, instinctive defender like Bell is Oregon’s best counter. The junior forward produced 11 points, 13 rebounds, and eight blocks against Kansas. Staying out of foul trouble will be crucial for him. Kavell Bigby-Williams is the only other big man on the roster. Not having Boucher to rebound and stretch the floor could be a game changer. Dana Altman has done a tremendous job working around his loss. How he devises a game plan to stop North Carolina from dominating the paint will be massive for Oregon’s chances of reaching the national title game.
Top scorers collide
Roy Williams has been coaching North Carolina for 14 years. This is one of his most unique teams. The roster is filled with solid complimentary pieces with one terrific scorer carrying the load. Justin Jackson’s improvement from being a decent starter to ACC Player of the Year has been astonishing. The junior forward is more aggressive as North Carolina’s number one option. Despite being a streaky shooter, Jackson is more than capable of getting hot and taking over.
Dorsey has been the hottest shooter in the tournament. Converting 17 out of 26 three-point attempts is absurd. His finest performance was against Kansas, as the sophomore hit six of ten three point attempts in a 27-point performance.
For Oregon to make the Final Four, they needed another scorer to step up. Dorsey has taken charge by averaging 24.5 points in four games. Nobody ever questioned his talent. It all comes down to consistency. Dorsey is putting it all together at the best time.
