I am cautiously optimistic about winning Monday night.
- Our defense works better against the Heels. I don’t think they have played many tough defenses this season. Bill Self was always tough against the North Carolina type of transition offense. When Self was in IL, Roy’s teams had always struggled to score against Self. Of course, KU’s defense owned N. Carolina under Self.
2.North Carolina’s defense looks rather soft especially with dribble penetration. We have 3 decent players who can drive downhill: CB, Wilson, and Remy. They can totally disrupt the Carolina D. (Ochai can also drive, but he lacks the aggressiveness…same with his shooting.) - The refs. If we get the same crew as the the one did the Villi game, we would own N. Carolina. I think KU was only called for 8 to 10 fouls the whole game against a Villinova offense designed to move, penetrate and draw fouls. It’s incredible. Bill Self’s team, above all else prides itself on playing tough and sometimes physical defense. If the refs are going to let them play, advantage KU.
- Hubbie is less experienced. He did a great job this far, but Self has been here before and coaching matters in a pressurized game. Adv. KU. RCJHGKU!!!