Xavier's Sean Miller is the second coach to turn down the Arizona Wildcats head coaching job in a week, a gig that—in theory—should be highly coveted. So what's the problem out there?

Obviously, the legacy of Arizona hoops begins and ends with Lute Olson, but he did leave a pretty decent foundation to build on. This year's team barely snuck into the NCAA tournament and then made the Sweet 16, and that was considered a down year. They have the budget and fan base to match the biggest programs in the country. Their conference is challenging enough to be respected, but not so tough that you can't compete every year. Their student body is legendary for its, um ... desirability. The weather is hot, but it's a dry heat. Are USC and Xavier really such awesome properties that you would turn that down without much thought?

Now we don't know the details of those offers—reports were between $13-15 million for Miller—so maybe Arizona is being stingy with the cash. And Miller does have a good thing going at Xavier, so there's no need for him to jump ship without a very attractive deal. But it is curious that the school is having such trouble filling the spot. They've had three coaches turn down the job since October. What's worse, they're holding up the works in the coaching carousel. (Their next target is likely Utah's Jim Boylen.) Just hire the Hoff and we can move on with our lives.

Miller reportedly rejects UA job offer [Daily Wildcat]
Miller spurns 'Zona, expected to stay at Xavier [Fox Sports]
Miller takes Arizona job [Yahoo]

Check out the video below, in which Miller is featured in an early ESPN remote — Berman must have been busy that day — a few years before becoming the star point guard for his father John's Blackhawk High School team in Chippewa Township, Pennsylvania. He also went on to become Big East Freshman of the Year in 1988, leading Pitt to three NCAA Tournament appearances before becoming a coach.

The Panthers knocked Miller and his Xavier Musketeers out of the tournament last night, 60-55.

Of course ESPN was about seven years late with this story; Miller appeared on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson when he was five, doing pretty much the same tricks.

Xavier Coach Sean Miller Was A Basketball Phenom, ESPN, Video [NESW Sports]

2) Forest Whitaker lied to you Or at least stretched the truth. For reasons that escape me, Forest Whitaker was featured this year in a Big East commercial which ran during every single commercial break during every single Big East regional game. The Fast Times star rambles through about 40 different facts explaining how impressive the Big East looks this year and has been throughout the history of the conference. While I don't dispute that opinion, I do dispute the fact that at one point, the Bloodsport actor makes the claim that 15 teams in the conference have reached the Final Four, including Pitt. Yeah, and Battlefield Earth was a great movie. The truth is, Pitt did reach a semi-final of a tournament in 1941. Problem is, there were only 8 teams in the whole bracket. Does winning one game in a tournament that featured Creighton really count as making the Final Four? Forest, does that mean simply getting into the tournament means Pitt has been to an Elite 8? No, sadly, it doesn't. A win on Thursday takes Pitt to uncharted territory. Following that, in the event of a win over either 'Nova or Duke on Saturday and I'd like to retract this section of this article. I'd also like my $8 back from Vantage Point.

3) Senioritis Hopefully it's not kicking in yet for any of the 3 graduating seniors from the starting 5 of this year's team. But while some local journalistic dolts claim that Levance Fields, Sam Young and Tyrell Biggs' departure, coupled with a possible early exit to the NBA by DeJuan Blair, spells doom for Jamie Dixon and the Panthers next year, others are looking to a brighter future. Highly acclaimed forward Dante Taylor joins the Panthers next year, the first to sport the title of McDonald's All-American for Pitt in 20 years. Some other key players to next years team are also helping to fuel their current run in this years tournament. Gilbert Brown might be the most athletic player on the court at any given time, freshman Ashton Gibbs led the conference for a while in 3 point % and Brad Wanamaker is a solid 2 guard. Match them with current starting guard Jermaine Dixon, and you have a very solid starting 5. Because of Jamie Dixon's willingness to go deep into his bench, the Panthers have been able to bring along the future of their program, while remaining a....I can't do this anymore. I'm sorry. I'm only writing this section as a way to soften the blow of another possible let down. If this team can't get the job done, I don't think we'll ever see a Pitt team in the Final Four. — WhoWantsaWanstacheRide (The Mosh Pitt)

XAVIER MUSKETEERS

1) Coaching audition? Inevitably, the story line that will get beaten into the ground leading up to Thursday night will be Head Coach Sean Miller squaring off against his alma mater. Miller was a Pitt guard from 1987-1992, was the Big East Freshman of the year in '88, and hit Jerome Lane in transition en route to that famed backboard breaking jam, which of course sent Bill Raftery into hysterics. If for some reason Jamie Dixon ever bolts for another gig, Miller will immediately be the number one candidate to fill the vacancy.

2) Better with age As a freshman in 2005, B.J. Raymond did little to suggest he was ever going to have a substantial impact on the program. He played only 12 minutes a game and shot a lackluster 30.6 percent from deep. But fast forward to 2009 and Raymond is the face of Xavier's second consecutive trip to the Sweet 16. He leads the team in points (14.1), minutes (30.1) and free throw percentage (80). He's also improved his range tremendously, finishing fourth in the Atlantic 10 in three pointers made. You might remember him as the player who made this frightening face after delivering the knockout three pointer against West Virginia in last year's regional semi-final.

3) They should have an "X" factor, right? With roles clearly defined and exciting aberration performances from bench players few and far between, this year's team has been fairly predictable to watch. In March though it usually takes a role player to incite an upset, so take heed of the name Jamel McLean. Derrick Brown aside, he's the team's most athletic player and was second in blocks despite averaging only 17 minutes of floor time. He's listed at 6'8", but that is very, very generous. He also likes to dunk! Something often absent in an XU game. — Searching For Billy Edelin

Pre-game: Welcome Deadspiners, coming live from sunny California we'll be covering what could be the most anticipated game of the tournament, Xavier and Portland St.

This could likely be the least watched game of the tournament.

Xavier, a 4 seed, is the highest seeded mid-major along with Gonzaga. Led by NBA prospect, Derrick Brown, Xavier is a well rounded team

Portland St., the nation's first salmon-safe university (thank you wikipedia), is led by the diminutive Jeremiah Dominguez, listed at 5'6".

Pre-Game: California comrade here. Although Brett managed to get us awarded this game blog, his hands are a little sore from the hour-long handjobs he gave to each member of the Deadspin editorial staff...actually on second thought, we may have ot write this without any input from Brett at all. It seems his throat is too sore to talk. But hey, Brett, way to take one for the team.

19:00 and the X-men are out to an early 3-0 lead. Nice red backdrop there in Boise. Plenty of good seats still available.

We're all happy Ken Bone is coaching here.

18:00: And Ken's Boners hit a three to tie it up at 5. The opening weekend powered by Totino's Pizza Rolls and Pabst Genuine Draft

16:30: Dominguez is CLOSE TO the Floor

16:30: Note to my readers, Courtney Love did not actually graduate from Portland St. What did Courtney Love major in?

Commercial Break: Does McDonald's even market to white people anymore?

Commercial Break: McDonald's uses the crappiest parties with the least threatening black people I have ever seen. This is where Wayne Brady got his start

15:00: Xavier up 10. This could get ugly.

13:30 Xavier's defense is long and lean but some how Coach Bone knew this. And Dominguez hits a three.

12:40: Terrible flop. My comrades have been drinking at every flop. Three people vomited during the Duke game.

12:00: And the Boners are feeling frisky, down by four we go to the commercial break. We were discussing most loathed Duke player. Wojo was the consensus #1, I had Reddick 2 and Langdon 3.

Also so far worst commercial of the Tourny: The Axe motorcycle ad.

11:30: Xavier is FUNdamental. Good dish on the other end for Jones.

11:00: Reverse tea bag. GROIN TO FACE!!!! GROIN TO FACE!!!!

9:44: 22-18. This game has actually turning out pretty good. Good shooting by Xavier and Portland St. is hoisting up three's by the fist full. I think close to 200 people are getting this game. A corner of Ohio and the city of Portland.

Dominguez doesn't look as small as Mugsy Bouges did when he was playing. He gives 5'6" High School PGs everywhere hope of playing D-1 ball.

8:30: BJ Raymond to make it 4 on one end, Portland St. answers back on the other. 24-22

7:18: Back to back threes. And commercial break. Why is Ameritrade even advertising anymore? Also Jim Spanarkel is a VP at Merril Lynch. Maybe it is time for him to quit his day job.

7:18: Between Nelson and Dominguez I think I've played against these guys in an IM basketball game. And it's a festival of missed FTs. 30-25 Xavier.

5:45: Dominguez hits one in the lane, then bricks a three after an Xavier deep three miss.

5:00: Two layups for Xavier, 34-27 Xavier. Another Portland St. turnover leads to a Jackson three and its back to a 10 point lead.

Commercial Break: Why Does Taco Bell need three varieties of nachos under $1?

3:30: Turnover, miss, turnover, and then Portland St. Layup, a great pace or as Spanarkel called it: Spurtability

2:30: And 1 for Xavier's McClain. And We've had 3 commercials within 3 possessions.

2:30: Under what circumstances are these two guys in the same car together eating meals at Sonic all the time? Stake-out? Cross-country trip? Are they dating?

1:30: 40-29 Xavier. Missed layups by both teams, they're slowing down the pace.

1:02: Dominguez banks in the runner AND 1. The announcers have called Dominzuez short roughly 30 times.

Last Possession: Portland St. holds for the last shot, Murray hits a three and Xavier goes to the locker room up 7. 42-35.

Half Time: So one of the Comrades here in California has claimed that he had intercourse with a woman in 24 seconds (he counted in his head). He was proud of this fact for some reason. He called his ex-GF and called her to confirm this fact, which she did over speaker phone. Question to the tens of readers out there: A) Can anyone beat this time? 2) would you be proud of this ability?

Half Time: CBS just cut to the AZ-Utah game. Has anyone lost more draft stock then Chase Budinger? Is Chase the gayest name on earth?

Half Time: Cut away to the Louisville-Morehead St. A close game at half is all of a sudden not close. Is it safe to describe Rick Pitino as cadaverous? Thursday had exactly one good game, the VCU-UCLA. Thank god today has been better.

Half Time: When the historians eventually get to Paul Walker's career, are they going to have a tough time differentiating the two "Fast and Furious" movies?

Starting the 2nd half: 42-35 the Boners start with ball and misses a 15 foot jumper. Xavier hits a three in transition off the miss. 45-35.

18:00: Three in and out for Dominguez, then runner for Xavier, 47-35 Xavier.

17:00: 3-2 zone for the Boners. The rebounding problem of the zone immediately becomes apparent, Xavier dunk 49-37.

16:18: Portland St. hits 1 of 2 FTs, sloppy back and fourth turnovers at half court lead to a TV timeout. 49-38 Xavier

15:38: Back from commercial, Xavier inbounds from 1/2 court. Xavier gets a good shot but misses the layup, Portland hits a three in transition off the miss. 49-41 Xavier

14:00: Never date a girl who likes King of the Hill. Check her purse, she has Kodiak in there. Xavier by 12 53-41.

12:30: Coach Bone is pissed off about an out-of-bounds call. 55-45 Xavier

12:00: Runner in the lane increases the lead to 12, Dominguez gets fouled and we go to commercial. 57-45 Xavier.

Commercial Break: The sexual tension between Howie Long and the 12 year-old girl is palpable. Isn't he on Megan's List somewhere?

11:00: The Xavier bench is destroying Portland, 59-45 Xavier. This game is getting out of hand.

9:30: Dominguez is going to have to step up BIG right here to get Portland back in this game. Dominguez has been called short now 56 times. 61-45 as Dominguez misses two FTs.

8:30: StevePerry pysch out is doing a better job blogging this blog then I am blogging the game. Xavier is taking over. 66-45 Xavier. Dominguez takes the George Mikan hook shot.

7:45: Xavier has 11 points in a row. Portland State's 6 foot and under intramural champs are now on the floor in Boise as Portland goes small.

7:00: Portland state finally hits a three after a set of Xavier FTs. The American Rick Rubio steps onto the floor, Mickey Polis.

6:00: Here come the Boners, 69-52 Xavier. Polis scored a career-high 14 points against Lewis and Clark University. Sacajawea is soft defensively.

4:30: 16 point game. 9 guys have scored for Xavier, they are a well balanced. Portland St. is not.

4:00: Easy layup for Xavier, bad shot for Portland St. 71-53 Xavier.

3:00: The number of craptacular CBS shows that are advertised in any given game is off the charts. Our Binge drinking game has taken the rule "Drink when CBS shows an ad for a shitty CBS show" off the books. 71-54 Xavier

2:00: Brown throws it down on the easy baseline move. Portland St. scouting report apparently didn't include the fact that he's left handed. 75-56 Xavier. Warm up the busses.

1:00: Another dunk for Xavier. Dominguez was shut down the second 1/2 and that was the difference. Xavier is dominating the Vikings on the glass. 77-56 Xavier.

0:00: Polis hits a three to end it 77-59. Thanks for joining me.

2) Who let my little brother on the court? Look out for Brad Redford, a freshman who looks like he's 12 years old. Of his 54 baskets, 94% are from 3-point range. Redford was Mr. Basketball in Michigan, hitting 102 consecutive free throws his senior year.

3) Learning is good, you know Unlike all some programs, the players graduate. Who do they have to thank, a tough disciplinarian? Actually it's a nun; Sister Rose Ann Fleming took over as academic advisor for student athletes in 1985, and since then every senior basketball player has graduated. So whether they are ballin' in Moldova or patrolling your local mall, their diploma is in tow. — Rob Sarasua

PORTLAND STATE VIKINGS

1) You Can Practically Smell the Patchouli From Here Portland State is one of our nation's "greener" institutions of higher learning; some of the classroom buildings are designed to be "environmentally sustainable;" the Princeton Review calls it a "college with a conscience;" and it has won much acclaim—including being called a Salmon Safe University—for a campus-wide initiative that treats storm water runoff before that dirty, dastardly, stinking bilge reaches the local watershed. They even list their school colors as Forest Green and White. Evidently purple used to be one of the school colors too, but it was eradicated. It isn't known why. But I bet I know why—I bet it just wasn't green enough.

2) Someone Fact-Check This Unbelievable Nugget While perusing the list of notable alumni (Neil Lomax, anyone?) at the obvious place to GET such information—that is, Wikipedia...you may have heard of it—I came across one name attached to a piece of information that just blew me away. "Courtney Love—actress and rock musician" and THEN the parenthetical note: did not graduate. I know. I couldn't believe it, and I still haven't recovered.

3) Get Back And Play Some D Portland State is actually in the top 100 of Division I schools in terms of shooting the basketball, putting up 45.4% from the field overall and 38% from three (88th and 32nd in the nation, respectively). Unfortunately they need a little help on the other end, as opponents shoot 45.5% from the field and 34.5% from beyond the arc (270th, and 179th, respectively). One thing they have going for them in the first round is that the game is played in Boise, which is significantly better for the Vikings than it is for opponent Xavier. If Xavier can lose at Charlotte (which happened on 2/19), then there's no reason to count out Portland State for a first-round upset over the
Musketeers — Rush The Court

Join the Deadspin Pants Party Group Pool [ESPN]
Download the Deadspin Bracket [PDF or JPG]

West (Phoenix) Region

UCLA 88, Western Kentucky 78

When Darren Collison fouled out with 5:30 left, a whole lot of people started to believe that the Hilltoppers could win this thing. Of course, thereafter, the Bruins put a foot on WKU's neck and ended that talk with a quickness. In the moral victory column, the Hilltoppers gutted out a big comeback and had a chance to win at the end. Tyrone Brazelton had 31 for the Toppers, while Kevin Love and Russell Westbrook both notched points/rebounds double-doubles for the Bruins.
Xavier 79, West Virginia 75

Incredible game. WVU was behind by double figures in the first half and gritted its way back into it in the second. Bodies were hitting the ground like a Sopranos marathon. And when regulation ended with a tie and the extra period started, it was perfect March basketball. A shockingly wide-open shot when X inbounded the ball with just two seconds left on the shot clock sealed the deal, but for good measure, the Mountaineers started bricking free throws. Josh Duncan was Xavier's rock once again, scoring 26 and hitting nine of his ten free-throw attempts.

East (Charlotte) Region

North Carolina 68, Washington State 47

I have cast this as Unstoppable Force vs. Immovable Object for several days now, but I conveniently forgot that Roy Williams' teams are always capable of playing some D themselves, and that tipped the balance in this one. That and three-pointers. Not that UNC's 33 percent from the arc was mind-blowing, but in the early going, Tyler Hansbrough couldn't get untracked. As soon as the outside shots started to fall (Danny Green 3-5), Psycho T started doing his thing, and ended up leading the Tar Heels with 18 points and 9 rebounds.

Louisville 77, Tennessee 60

David Padgett is everything that is right about College Basketball, people. At least, that's what Jay Bilas would have us believe. What I can't figure out is, when he meets our other dorky white savior in the next round, who do we root for/genuflect in awe of? Anyway. Bruce Pearl threw Smiths at the Cards all night long, and it didn't make much difference in the outcome. Louisville's Jerry Smith had 13, as did Andre McGee. And Terrence Williams brought the oohs and aaahs with his athletic 12. By the way, Derrick Caracter (9 points, 5 rebounds) says he's going pro. Good luck with that, Chief.

Western Kentucky tried to sneak up on UCLA last night and darned near pulled it off, but the real news was Louisville, which blasted Tennessee and looked like a team that couldn't possibly have lost to Seton Hall. The only team that looked better than them was ... well, North Carolina, which, by their standards in this tournament, slacked off by only winning by 21.

We are sad, however, to see Joe Alexander and West Virginia gone. With a little more eccentricity and Jamiroquai style, he coulda been the next Pittsnogle.

XAVIER MUSKETEERS

1. ESPN got something right? Prior to the start of this year's tournament, espn.com "experts" provided some insight into various players and teams in the tourney. Three of these so-called experts labeled sophomore forward Derrick Brown as the best dunker in the tournament. For once I actually agree with them because of this and this.

2. You Can Have The Logo. Xavier's sweet 16 opponent, the West Virginia Mountaineers often get associated with Jerry West as one of their most famous alumnus. Well, to that I say you can have your logo, and I'll keep my Mike Damone. Xavier alum Robert Romanus played Mike Damone in Fast Times at Ridgemont High.

3. It's All About the Blob. The Musketeers are a bit odd when it comes to mascots. As you would expect, D'Artagnan is prominently featured at Xavier games and around campus. Unfortunately, D'Artagnan is overshadowed by the greatest mascot in the history of sports, The Blue Blob. The Blob was once named Playboy's Mascot of the Month, has appeared in numerous SportsCenter commercials, has his own Bobblehead, er, Bobblebody, and was a memorable part of giving a man $1 million in the 2001 Crosstown Shootout; the Blob was tackled by Theo Nelson following his half-court shot at halftime of the game. — Brian Leibforth

WEST VIRGINIA MOUNTAINEERS

1. Giant Killers. West Virginia has advanced to the Sweet 16 for the third time in the past four seasons and the fourth time in as many tries. Over those trips, WVU has garnered the reputation as a sort of giant killer, toppling #2 seeds with some regularity. This year, of course, was the public "pantsing" of #2 seed Duke last round. Three years ago, the Mountaineers (with the unconscious Mike Gansey) knocked out Chris Paul's #2 seeded Wake Forest squad in double OT. And back in 1998, the Mountaineers beat #2 seed Cincinnati — under then-coach Bob Huggins — with a last second "prayer" from Jarrod West. While modern HDTV advancements would greatly improve the 1998 highlights, it's best any 2005 highlights featuring Kevin Pittsnogle be viewed on nothing larger than a Sony Watchman.

2. Huggy Bear, Yep. Bob Huggins, beside being a fantastic basketball coach and a good driver, is also a natty dresser. Just this year, he has run the entire gamut of fashion choices. Early this season, Huggins trotted out in a traditional coat and tie. Not satisfied with that, Huggins upped the ante, debuting his now infamous mustard accident. Obviously traumatized by the experiment, Huggins reverted to his later Cincinnati days, coaching each game in the same snazzy — in a Bill Belichick kind of way — gold and blue WVU pullover. Luckily the dark cloud that was the pullover has lifted, though it has been replaced with a sportcoat and mock turtleneck look that would make Mike Brey blush. Of course, it's the same color mock turtleneck for every game, meaning either he's bought a dozen of them or he's simply wearing the same one over and over. For the sake of my sanity — let alone anyone standing near him — let's assume it's the former.

3. The Xavier Connection. While there isn't much head-to-head history between WVU and tonight's opponent Xavier, there are plenty of connections between the two schools. While at Cincinnati, Bob Huggins regularly coached against Xavier in a fierce crosstown Cincinnati rivalry. Sean Miller, the current head coach at Xavier, was a four-year letter winner and Big East Freshman of the Year at Pitt. Miller, who still owns several records at Pitt, compiled a sparkling 1-3 career record against WVU. Given Miller's Pitt bloodlines, his career record against WVU, the fact that Xavier has never beaten the Mountaineers, and the fact that a #7 seed is favored over a #3 seed, WVU should start preparing for UCLA on Saturday. Considering the size of the jinx I just delivered, the Mountaineers may end up forfeiting. Tune in tonight. (I'm looking at you 17% of the country that's getting the game.) — Charley West

West Virginia vs. Xavier, Thursday 7:10 pm

#7 West Virginia Mountaineers

Last Weekend: Defeated #10 Arizona 75-65 , defeated #2 Duke 73-67

How WVU Got Here: In pretty impressive fashion, actually. No first-round patsies for a #7 seed, but Bob Huggins and his 'Eers didn't flinch. Alex Ruoff shot the lights out in the first round, and his team followed suit, hitting 58% percent of their three-point tries. Four starters ended up in double figures in that game, as a talented but directionless Wildcat team was sent packing. Against Duke, it was a somewhat different story, as Joe Alexander took advantage of the soft Blue Devils to the tune of 22 points and 11 rebounds. All that was missing was the sound of dueling banjos.

What the Sweet 16 means to the Mountaineers: It's time to throw out the "NIT Champs" T-shirts. It also means that the Morgantown faithful will feel completely justified in doing whatever it took to hire Bob Huggins, with all of the attendant slime. When Huggins uses this exposure to recruit his own guys, look out. That creep can roll, man.

Chances to Reach San Antonio: Assuming they get past X, it still seems incredibly unlikely, with UCLA looming as a possibility. If the superior talent doesn't get them, the referee malfeasance will.

#3 Xavier Musketeers

Last Weekend: Defeated #14 Georgia 73-61, defeated #6 Purdue 75-68

How Xavier got here: The play of Josh Duncan and a balanced scoring attack that hit its stride at the right time. It appeared as if the Muskies were going to be the first high seed to flame-out of the NCAA Tournament on Thursday afternoon when The Muskies trailed Georgia by 11 in the second half of the Thursday game. Behind Duncan's 20 points (my pick for the most valuable player on Xavier), the Muskies mounted a 22-6 run to end the Bulldogs' miracle run. In the second round, Xavier's offensive attack was clicking on all cylinders, with Drew Lavender and C.J. Anderson each scoring 18 points, Duncan adding 16, and Stanley Burrell scoring 11 for the victory over a talented Purdue squad.

What the Sweet 16 means to the Musketeers: Since the Muskies have been in the Top 25 nearly all season and have done everything possible to dis their mid-major status and conference, a Sweet 16 appearance will no longer suffice. If Xavier really wants to be a big boy school, only an Elite 8 appearance will legitimize a season which saw Xavier attain the most wins in school history.

Chances to Reach San Antonio: Chances of reaching the Elite 8 are at 50%, with a tough upcoming match-up with a surging and very similar West Virginia squad. There is, however, a giant roadblock in the way of the Final Four called UCLA.

Western Kentucky vs. UCLA, Thursday 9:40pm

#12 Western Kentucky Hilltoppers

Last Weekend: Defeated #5 Drake 101-99 (OT), defeated #13 San Diego 72-63.

How WKU Got Here: By dominating their weight class. Some small part of the Hilltoppers probably balked at having to knock out brother mids, but then again, not that much. Passing the ball off to Ty Rogers for the last-millisecond shot on Friday was a gamble that electrified Hoops Nation, and the defeat of fellow upstarts San Diego was the Courtney Lee show, as the pro prospect scored 29 points with 7 rebounds.

What the Sweet 16 means to the Hilltoppers: Everything. The Hilltoppers have a proud history, but in the modern era of the tournament, the last time they made the grade was 1993. It's impossible to calculate what this means to the program and the Sun Belt conference, but we can guess it feels damn good, and that nobody will hang their heads too far if the ride ends here.

Chances to Reach San Antonio: Slim. Beating very good mids is nothing to sneeze at, but UCLA has multiple pro prospects vs. the Hilltoppers' one. The best WKU can realistically hope for is a close result that validates their run thus far. Their heart and hoops IQ have never been in doubt.

#1 UCLA Bruins

Last Weekend: Defeated #16 Mississippi Valley State 70-29, defeated #9 Texas A&M 51-49.

How UCLA Got Here: It started with the holding of Mississippi Valley State to a tourney record 29 points in round one, but got it a bit rocky in the round of 32. It took a late game rally for the Bruins to overcome a double-digit deficit and escape Anaheim alive. Albeit with many a questionable call and a bit of luck, but they escaped nonetheless. A big part of that escape was the play of their two biggest stars in Darren Collison and Kevin Love, while the role players seem to have forgotten what time of year it is. Josh Shipp has averaged just 3 points thus far and Luc Richard Mbah a Moute's still nursing his injured ankle. The defense, however, remains as strong as ever.

What the Sweet 16 Means to the Bruins: Nothing. The Bruins have reached two consecutive Final Fours only to be sent packing by the eventual champion Florida Gators. Sure, it's nice that they can tack up a third straight Sweet 16 banner, but it means almost nothing to these two-time bridesmaids. Nothing short of a Final Four will meet expectations, and a championship is almost necessary for a group that could be remembered for coming up short on the biggest of stages without it.

Chances to Reach San Antonio: Great. They're arguably the tourney's best defensive squad remaining, and anytime you play defense like the Bruins, your odds increase. Add that to their superstar tandem of Collison and Love, and it looks like the Bruins will be dancing to the tourneys final song for a third strait year. That said, if the trio of Shipp, Mbah a Moute and Russell Westbrook fail to show up on the offensive end the Bruins could head home shocked as early as Thursday.

Of course, guessing what would have happened if a foul would have been called, and how that would have all went down, is one of those empty games we all play with ourselves to pretend there's some sort of order to the chaos. But man, imagine if Texas A&M would have pulled this game out: Xavier, Texas A&M, West Virginia and Western Kentucky, battling for a shot at the final four. Billy Packer would never stop crying.

For all the Kevin Love, uh, love, we think the most compelling character left in the West Regional has to be West Virginia coach Bob Huggins. This guy has had an active few years; surely, you haven't forgotten the epic DUI video. In a way, West Virginia and Huggins have always been a perfect fit, and not just because he went to school there. We're not sure what kind of message it would send about academics in college basketball of Bob Huggins led WVU to the Final Four ... probably an extremely honest one, actually.

But hey: Cincinnati's athletic grade point average is up a tick or two, so there's that.

Pics Of The Night [Rush The Court]
Bob Huggins Suspended [Cincinnati Enquirer]

#3 Xavier 73, #14 Georgia 61. This was the only exciting game of the first session. Georgia brought the energy early, as Sundiata Gaines and Terrance Woodbury led the Bulldogs to an eleven point lead early in the second half. But the Musketeers clamped down on defense, and went on a 18-3 run in the second half to take control of the game. A few late missed shots, free throws and turnovers sealed Georgia's fate. It's a shame really, as we will no longer be graced by Dennis Felton's sense of style. Xavier survives, and will play the Purdue/Baylor winner next.

#1 Kansas 85, #16 Portland State 61. Today it was the Vikings who were pillaged. Kansas dominated this game from the tipoff, and kept it out of reach even when PSU had decent runs. Four Jayhawks finished in double figures, led by Brandon Rush's 18. The Jayhawks will now await the UNLV-Kent State winner.

#5 Michigan State 72, #12 Temple 61.: Good defense by the Spartans in this game, but Temple simply could not shoot. Nearly 75% of the Owls' offense came from three players. None of those players were Dionte Christmas, who had just 3 points on 1-12 shooting, proving that the MSU defense is of the Festivus persuasion. Raymar Morgan had 15 on 7-9 shooting for the Spartans, who will face the Pitt-Oral Roberts winner on Saturday.

It just occurred to me that all three losing teams scored 61 points...freaky.

1 UCLA vs. 16 Mississippi Valley State (Anaheim)
If the 16 over 1 is ever going to happen this would be the most shocking one possible as the Delta Devils boast a 17-15 overall record and five 30-plus point losses to teams that either reached the dance or just missed. That includes a 71-26 point drubbing in Pullman to Washington State, a team the Bruins beat twice this season in the Pac-10.
The Pick: UCLA

8 BYU vs. 9 Texas A&M (Anaheim)
The player to see here is BYU big man Trent Plaisted. He's shown this year he can get the job done against prime competition, averaging a double-double against this year's field (MSU, L'Ville, and UNC). On the other side it's a bit of a tossup as the Aggies still lack the go-to threat they lost when Acie Law graduated after last season. Donald Sloan tries to fill the role, but his inability to do so has been a big part of the Aggies' inconsistency as a whole. If he's not hitting from the perimeter, the Cougar defense will key inside and make it almost impossible for A&M to win.
The Pick: BYU

5 Drake vs. 12 Western Kentucky (Tampa)
The Hilltoppers can play with anyone. Courtney Lee is one of the nation's top seniors and he can do it all, be it shoot from outside, rebound, or break down the defense off the dribble and get to the rim. The team as a whole can score in bunches, but it's that all-too-necessary defense that seems to get in the way. I think most people know what Drake can do at this point. They're one of the country's best three-point shooting squads, yet their most valuable player - Adam Emmenecker - attempted only two all season (he missed them both). He's a bit of a poor man's Steve Nash, as he makes the engine go while Josh Young and Jonathan Cox light up the scoreboard. WKU can certainly beat Drake if their shots aren't falling, but I think the Bulldogs will be ready to play.
The Pick: Drake

4 Connecticut vs. 13 San Diego (Tampa)
If you're searching hard for that upset special out west this may be the one. The Toreros' Brandon Johnson is a do-it-all guard who handles the ball at all times and possesses a smooth stroke from all over the court. The problem is a lack of consistent help as Freshmen Rob Jones and Trumaine Johnson aren't ready for prime time just yet, a fact that makes their WCC Tourney win that much more impressive. UConn has an enormous defensive presence in supreme shot blocker Hasheem Thabeet alongside Jeff Adrien. A.J. Price has been fantastic running the point. Add to that a continuously improving Stanley Robinson and San Diego looks like a real long shot. But hey, it's a shot.
The Pick: UConn

6 Purdue vs. 11 Baylor (Washington D.C.)
Despite their success this year in the sloth-styled Big Ten, many don't seem to think Purdue is a real threat to make some noise this year. Part of that is the four freshmen they rely heavily on to get the job done. In addition, none of their players jump out at you defensively. They're a polar opposite to their opponent across the board. While certainly not tourney experienced, the Bears (last appeared in 1988) start four juniors including work horse guard Curtis Jerrells. Jerrells can score with the best guards in the country and he's got super frosh LaceDarius Dunn to help out off the bench. Factor in the pair of seven-footers the Bears rotate and the defense starts to look good as well. It's a very balanced squad that goes 10 deep and relies heavily on upperclassmen. Hmm... smells like an upset doesn't it?
The Pick: Baylor

3 Xavier vs. 14 Georgia (Washington D.C.)
As fun as Georgia's run through the SEC tourney was to watch, I'm not sure it'll translate to the big dance with Xavier sitting on the other bench. The Musketeers are loaded and just about everyone can shoot the three and play in your face defense. The big question is the teams engine Drew Lavender, who's been slowed by injury recently. Leading to a pair of losses to St. Joe's over the last week, but all indications point to the semifinal tourney loss being a good thing, as it gave him time to rest. If he's good to go I have little reservation about Xavier reaching the Elite 8. Remember this team gave Ohio State their toughest test of the tournament last season and they're even better this year. Stanley Burrell, the teams best defender, should give Georgia's top player Sundiata Gaines fits all day and with Gaines' tendency to force shots it doesn't look good. All that said I think this could be a tougher game for Xavier than the possible Duke match up, despite Georgia's 4 SEC regular season wins.
The Pick: Xavier

7 West Virginia vs. 10 Arizona (Washington D.C.)
While Arizona's final profile doesn't look overly spectacular they can get the job done on both ends of the floor. In large part due to the defensive emphasis interim coach Kevin O'Neil has brought to the team. Their also tested as they played the nations 2nd toughest schedule. Nearly knocking off UCLA, Memphis and Kansas (in Lawrence) this season. The biggest of their offensive cogs is freshman Jerryd Bayless who may finally get the national recognition he deserves if the 'Cats can advance. He's dropped thirty multiple times this season and looks a lot like Arizona alums Gilbert Arenas and Mike Bibby (more Bibby). With West Virginia it all starts and ends with Joe Alexander. If he gets hot their may not be anyone in the country who can slow down the versatile big man. If he can't get going though it could be a long afternoon for West Virginia as they lack a second option as strong as Arizona's Chase Budinger. All in all it looks like the definition of a pick 'em.
The Pick: Arizona

2 Duke vs. 15 Belmont (Washington D.C.)
Belmont does one thing well and that's shoot, but so Duke and they have a solid frontcourt that Belmont can't compete with. If Belmont to pull the upset they'll need a shoot day for the ages and with Duke's defense I just don't think it happens. But expect Duke to have all kinds of trouble with teams like Xavier and Arizona should they advance as the Blue Devils struggle quite a bit against athletic point guards.
The Pick: Duke

Some West Region Superlatives...

Dark Horse for Final Four: Xavier
Dark Horse for Sweet 16: Arizona
Best First Round Upset: Baylor over Purdue
Best Opening Round Game: Arizona-West Virginia
Best Potential Game: UCLA-Xavier
Round of 32: UCLA over BYU, Drake over UCONN, Xavier over Baylor, Duke over Arizona
Sweet 16: UCLA over Drake, Xavier over Duke
Elite Eight: UCLA over Xavier
Regional Champ: UCLA

XAVIER MUSKETEERS

1. Coaches Corner. Xavier has done an excellent job over the past 20+ years finding capable coaches that continue to advance the program to higher levels. From Pete Gillen to the late great Skip Prosser to Thad Matta to Sean Miller, each coach has brought his own style to Xavier and has been able to find success. Now in his third season, Sean Miller has lead Xavier to its best regular season in school history. You would think by now that people would know Sean Miller because of his coaching resume, but still many people know him because of his appearance on David Letterman as a kid to show off his dribbling skills or perhaps because he knows how to teach offensive improvement. Most likely though, you know him because he was a key component in the most famous dunk in college basketball history.

2. Balancing Act. The Xavier Musketeers are this season's Atlantic 10 regular season champions and have done so with a balanced attack on the offensive end. For most of the season, Xavier has had six guys averaging double digit points per game lead by seniors Josh Duncan (11.7 ppg) and Drew Lavender (10.8 ppg). BJ Raymond (10.7 ppg), CJ Anderson (10.7 ppg) and Derrick Brown (10.6 ppg) have also been steady contributors for the Muskies. Stanley "Hammer" Burrell has arguably been Xavier's MVP this season despite averaging a career low in ppg (9.9 ppg). Hammer has become one of the top perimeter defenders in the country as evidenced by his ability to contain the likes of Eric Gordon (4-12 FG), Chris Lofton (3-12 FG), Sean Singletary (5-12 FG), Jimmy Baron (0-7 FG), and Dayton's Brian Roberts (held to 6-19 FG in two games combined). Phil Martelli, for one, won't be sad to see Burrell go based on his comments after the first Xavier/St. Joes game... "Is there anybody here from the Xavier administration? Do you know when graduation is? That goddamn Burrell, every year, every goddam game makes a shot against us. He was averaging 7.5 points coming into the game in seven league games - or eight games. Doesn't look like the same player, playing great defense. Dagger. I want to be here to make sure that sonofabitch gets out of here to be honest with you."

3. The Power of X. While this year's team is inspiring the hopes and dreams of Xavier fans everywhere, The Power of X is more than one team, one player or one coach. The statistic the majority Xavier fans will tell you they are most proud of is not the 14 All-Americans in school history or making the NCAA tournament 16 of the last 21 years, it is the fact that the Xavier program has graduated 70 straight seniors which dates back into the 1980's. Josh Duncan, Drew Lavender and Stanley Burrell will make that 73 straight this May and they will be certainly be missed, but the future is bright at X. Next year, Xavier welcomes Top 150 recruits Kenny Frease (#55) and Brian Walsh (#142) as well as uber-athletic PG Mark "Cheeks" Lyons, but Brad Redford may be the recruit that has inspired the most discussion and excitement amongst Xavier fans. Redford is one of the leading candidates for Mr. Basketball in Michigan while averaging just under 40 ppg at Frankenmuth High School. Redford set a Michigan state record this season by hitting 102 consecutive FT's and shot over 46% from behind the arc while displaying some ridiculous range. — Brian Leibforth

GEORGIA BULLDOGS

1. Seriously, They Actually Did That. We'll be talking about what Georgia did during the SEC tournament for years, but dammit, we need to acknowledge again, just so that the fickle hand of Internet history records that we recognized. The Bulldogs won four games during the SEC regular season (they also lost at home on the road to East Tennessee State) ... and then, in the midst of a tornado and TWO GAMES IN THE SAME DAY, they won four during the tourney to clinch a bid. They weren't even particularly hot coming into the tourney; they'd lost five of six and 10 of 12 going into Atlanta.

2. Doin' It For The Coach. As you'd probably expect when your team loses 10 of 12 to finish the season, Georgia fans weren't exactly doing backflips over keeping coach Dennis Felton around. Brought in to clean the program up after Jim Harrick did what Jim Harrick does, Felton was wearing on fans' patience with no tourney appearances in five years. And then this happened. Needless to say, you have to like his odds to return next year.

3. Where Did This Come From? Even more impressive about this run? Georgia lost two of its best players from last year, Takais Brown and Mike Mercer, and the team now has only eight scholarship players. They very well might have been the least likely team on earth to have pulled off two wins in one day, and four in four. Our favorite player, just edging doofy tall white guy Dave Bliss (who is far clunkier than a man with the name "Bliss" should be), is leader Sundiata Gaines, whose first name means "African warrior." We'll be honest: With the Illini finally petering out in the Big Ten final, we're cheering for Georgia to win this whole thing. If they play all six games in one day, they have to be the favorite. — Will Leitch

(And sorry we had the dismissal thing wrong; obviously we wrote this very quickly after they made it yesterday and missed that detail. We apologize.)

Join The Deadspin Pool.
Download The Deadspin Printable Bracket. (PDF)

2. Balancing Act. The Xavier Musketeers are this season's Atlantic 10 regular season champions and have done so with a balanced attack on the offensive end. For most of the season, Xavier has had six guys averaging double digit points per game lead by seniors Josh Duncan (11.7 ppg) and Drew Lavender (10.8 ppg). BJ Raymond (10.7 ppg), CJ Anderson (10.7 ppg) and Derrick Brown (10.6 ppg) have also been steady contributors for the Muskies. Stanley "Hammer" Burrell has arguably been Xavier's MVP this season despite averaging a career low in ppg (9.9 ppg). Hammer has become one of the top perimeter defenders in the country as evidenced by his ability to contain the likes of Eric Gordon (4-12 FG), Chris Lofton (3-12 FG), Sean Singletary (5-12 FG), Jimmy Baron (0-7 FG), and Dayton's Brian Roberts (held to 6-19 FG in two games combined). Phil Martelli, for one, won't be sad to see Burrell go based on his comments after the first Xavier/St. Joes game... "Is there anybody here from the Xavier administration? Do you know when graduation is? That goddamn Burrell, every year, every goddam game makes a shot against us. He was averaging 7.5 points coming into the game in seven league games - or eight games. Doesn't look like the same player, playing great defense. Dagger. I want to be here to make sure that sonofabitch gets out of here to be honest with you."

3. The Power of X. While this year's team is inspiring the hopes and dreams of Xavier fans everywhere, The Power of X is more than one team, one player or one coach. The statistic the majority Xavier fans will tell you they are most proud of is not the 14 All-Americans in school history or making the NCAA tournament 16 of the last 21 years, it is the fact that the Xavier program has graduated 70 straight seniors which dates back into the 1980's. Josh Duncan, Drew Lavender and Stanley Burrell will make that 73 straight this May and they will be certainly be missed, but the future is bright at X. Next year, Xavier welcomes Top 150 recruits Kenny Frease (#55) and Brian Walsh (#142) as well as uber-athletic PG Mark "Cheeks" Lyons, but Brad Redford may be the recruit that has inspired the most discussion and excitement amongst Xavier fans. Redford is one of the leading candidates for Mr. Basketball in Michigan while averaging just under 40 ppg at Frankenmuth High School. Redford set a Michigan state record this season by hitting 102 consecutive FT's and shot over 46% from behind the arc while displaying some ridiculous range. — Brian Leibforth

In yesterday's edition of the Closer, I ranted about referees who call too many charging fouls, and players taking full advantage with their Flops Across America tour. Last night, I came off the bench for my rec league team, scrambling to the gym straight from the airport.

Very first possession, one of our shooters misses a jumper, triggering a break for the other team. Their lead guard pushes the ball all the way to the hoop, starts to raise up, and crashes into me. I had my feet set well before the heavily-tatted No. 20 took off, I was standing several feet out in front of the basket, and stayed upright upon contact. Still, when the ref raised his arm and signaled a charge, I doubled over laughing at my hypocrisy. Comeuppance came later, when with eight seconds left and down three, I got a pass from our best shooter, who was double-teamed, found myself wide open and everyone else covered, launched a three ... and airballed the shot, costing us the game. Awesome.

I can only imagine the Virginia players felt equally crappy after getting smoked by Xavier. The Musketeers ran out to a 38-12 lead. The score was 61-30 by halftime, more points than Virginia had allowed in four of its previous games. Xavier shot 64 percent from the field on their way to a 108-70 win, including a ridiculous 16-for-26 from 3-point range. At one point early in the first half, the Muskies nailed seven of eight shots, including three threes in a row, two by Stanley Burrell. The game was another strong statement by an elite A-10 team, not any kind of huge black mark against the Hoos. Sean Singletary's one of the best players in the country, and Virginia has plenty of time to bounce back. It's a long season, so there's no point in putting too much stock in any one game (says the guy who chucked the clinching airball).

Dave Corzine would be proud. As would Mark Aguirre, Rod Strickland, and the immortal Dallas Comegys. Facing Scottie Reynolds and No. 17-ranked Villanova, DePaul played like the Blue Demons of old, jumping out to an early 6-0 lead and never giving it up, en route to an 84-76 win. DePaul came into the game at just 4-7, but showed how tough road wins are likely to be now that conference play has started.

Clever pun that uses Josh Shipp's name in a nautical sense. UCLA's top perimeter scoring option with Arron Afflalo now in charge of trimming Sheed's beard, Shipp came up huge at Maples, canning five threes to lead the Bruins to a 76-67 win over Stanford. Shipp's dagger three with four minutes left was launched from somewhere around Monterey. Color commentator and UCLA alum Marques Johnson set a new broadcasting record, referencing Kevin Love's outlet passing ability 3,627 times. Of course you'd be mad too, if you got your ass handed to you by Woody Harrelson.

Meanwhile, on the East Side. Cal broke open a one-point game with two straight threes midway through the second half, as the Bears beat No. 22 USC 92-82. Sophomore guard Patrick Christopher did the damage, scoring 24 points to go with seven rebounds and seven assists. O.J. Mayo led the Trojans with 34 points in his first Pac-10 game, but couldn't find enough support from his teammates to get the win. On the flip side, Cal's multiple weapons make them my sleeper pick in the Pac-10. Ryan Anderson has been one of the top performers in the country, averaging better than 22 and 9 heading into last night's game. Christopher and Jerome Randle have ably filled the void in the backcourt, and NBA prospect DeVon Hardin should start reeling off double-doubles soon, as he continues his comeback from major knee surgery. Add an improving Arizona State team to the mix (impressive win over Oregon in their opener) and you're looking at a bloody battle 1 through 9 in the Pac-10, with only Oregon State likely to be an easy out.

If we are all created in the image and likeness of God, you both were most likely modeled after his taint. You are cheap little bitches on the court. I'm talking Made in Taiwan cheap, dirty smelly hooker cheap, maybe even as cheap as Zoe Oden (that's his mom for those keeping score at home). In fact, I bet that is why your parents got divorced Greg. Your dad didn't like her job. I don't mean to say that it bothered him that she is a dirty whore, just that she was only pulling down $0.75 a day doing it.

And it gets worse from there. The site's motto is "Our mission is to provide the students of Xavier University with independent, unfiltered, and uncensored perspectives while providing a forum for unrestricted student discussion." Apparently!

Ode To Oden [Free Xavier]
The Violent Side Of Greg Oden [Deadspin]

Why? We see less basketball this way. Is it so west coasters don't have more than one game on at 10:00 a.m.? And if so, can you really pretend to give a damn about the west coast if you're airing any games at all in that time slot? You're either making them get up at 10 in the morning, or you're not. I don't see how this does anyone any good.

Anyway, that's what we're dealing with. Unless it runs really late, everyone's getting Ohio State vs. Xavier in its entirety. Maybe it's better this way; it brings us all closer together. So let's make the most of this communal experience, and let's bond here in the open thread.

And hey, anyone remember where Thad Matta coached before he came to Ohio State? I can't remember. I think it started with an 'X'.

BRIGHAM YOUNG COUGARS

1. Provo is an international destination. No, really.
Hanging next to Danny Ainge's oversized jersey in from the rafters of the Marriott Center is that of Kresimir Cosic. Cosic, a 6'11" center from Croatia, became in 1972 the first foreign player to be named a UPI All-American. BYU's international pipeline has recently shifted to Brazil, where former Cougar and first round NBA draft pick (hey, don't laugh, it's true!) Rafael Araujo is from. Current Mountain West Conference Freshman of the Year Johnathan Tavernari and reserve forward Fernando Malaman are also Brazilian, as is assistant coach Walter Roese. BYU's student body is especially well-suited to welcoming international players, since more than 70 percent of BYU students are fluent in a second language.

2. Keena Young was born to play for BYU. You just wouldn't know that by looking at him.
Keena Young, BYU's starting forward and the reigning Mountain West Conference Player of the Year, has a family history perfect for the university. Of course, the Young family shares a last name with the university's namesake, Brigham Young. But Young's mother's first name, LaVella, is remarkably similar to that of legendary former Cougar Head Football Coach LaVell Edwards. And Young's father, Cleveland, shares a name with former head basketball coach Steve Cleveland, who recruited Young to BYU before leaving to take the head coaching job at Fresno State in 2005.

3. "Hey, are you the coach's son?" In keeping with the family-oriented focus of the school's sponsoring religion, BYU's basketball team has featured various family ties throughout the years. Starting point guard Austin Ainge is the son of former Wooden-Award winning Cougar guard and current Boston Celtics GM Danny Ainge. Reserve guard and 3-point shooting specialist Mike Rose is the nephew of head coach Dave Rose. And last season's lone departing senior, Brock Reichner, is Rose's son-in-law, having married Rose's daughter (and former Lady Cougar basketball player) Chanell. Former BYU coach Roger Reid coached his sons Randy and Robbie on the team prior to being fired in 1996. — Joel Baughman

XAVIER MUSKETEERS

1. Can't touch this! Junior guard Stanley Burrell is the second leading scorer for the Musketeers. No, not that Stanley Burrell!. The Xavier student section had nicknamed him "The Hammer" before he even set foot on campus.

2. Dinner at 4...in bed by 9! Xavier has one of the oldest, most experienced squads in college basketball. Their players stay all four years, and they graduate. They have nine upperclassman on their roster. Throw in the dismissed Dedrick Finn, and Xavier's starting five would include four seniors and one junior. Fans across the Atlantic 10 constantly say to themselves, "Wait, Doellman is STILL there? That guy has to be like 60!"

3. The poop of angels. The University of Cincinnati is Xavier's main rival. If you think Duke and UNC are close (10 miles), Xavier and UC are only 3 miles apart. Skyline Chili is the sponsor of the annual Xavier vs. Cincinnati Crosstown Shootout/hatefest. For those of you not familiar with Skyline, I suggest you suck it up and make a trip to the greater Cincinnati area and try a delicious coney or 3-way. Yes, I know it's "in Ohio" but trust me when I say that Skyline chili truly is "the poop of angels." — Scott DeMange

Join The Deadspin Pool!
Deadspin Printable Bracket [PDF]
Complete NCAA Tournament Schedule

2. Dinner at 4...in bed by 9! Xavier has one of the oldest, most experienced squads in college basketball. Their players stay all four years, and they graduate. They have nine upperclassman on their roster. Throw in the dismissed Dedrick Finn, and Xavier's starting five would include four seniors and one junior. Fans across the Atlantic 10 constantly say to themselves, "Wait, Doellman is STILL there? That guy has to be like 60!"

3. The poop of angels. The University of Cincinnati is Xavier's main rival. If you think Duke and UNC are close (10 miles), Xavier and UC are only 3 miles apart. Skyline Chili is the sponsor of the annual Xavier vs. Cincinnati Crosstown Shootout/hatefest. For those of you not familiar with Skyline, I suggest you suck it up and make a trip to the greater Cincinnati area and try a delicious coney or 3-way. Yes, I know it's "in Ohio" but trust me when I say that Skyline chili truly is "the poop of angels." — Scott DeMange

GONZAGA

1. These Are Some Athletic Jesuits. Adam Morrison finished his senior season at Mead High School in Spokane as the all-time leading scorer in Greater Spokane League history. He broke the record set by current Gonzaga teammate Sean Mallon, who broke the old record held by current Gonzaga TV color commentator Jeff Brown. Other GSL alums include: Lions kicker Jason Hanson, former Redskin quarterback Mark Rypien, Cubs Hall-of-Famer Ryne Sandburg, and Jazz great John Stockton.

2. Batista STRONG! Gonzaga center/forward JP Batista set a Gonzaga record by bench pressing 225 pounds 30 times. The NFL Scouting Combine tests how many times a player can do the same thing: Pro-Bowl defensive end Kyle Vanden Bosch of the Tennessee Titans benched 225 pounds 26 times.

3. They're Not Kidding About The Honoring God Thing. Gonzaga recently honored one of the most beloved members of its community with a special statue at the McCarthey Athletic Center. Father Tony Lehman SJ was the Chaplain for the Gonzaga men's basketball team for 20 years before dying of leukemia in 2002. The University had left Fr. Tony's traditional chair at the end of Gonzaga's bench open since his death, but this season, they commissioned a Spokane artist to create a statue to honor him at the school's basketball arena. A bronze chair bearing the words, "To be continued..." (Fr. Tony's signature line) now stands at the entrance of the McCarthey Athletic Center. — Steve Pickford

XAVIER

1. We're Pretty Sure Andre Smith Won't Attend Any Games This Week. Smith, who played for the Musketeers in 1993-94, was sentenced recently to 10 years in prison for the beating death of his neighbor with a Russian machete. Smith, 30, admitted hitting Maxim Dudinovin and is the son of 1970's Cleveland Cavaliers star Bingo Smith.

2. Location, Location, Location. Boubacar Coly, a 6-foot-9 sophomore forward from Senegal, chose Xavier over the University of Miami, Mississippi, Richmond and Southern Methodist because at Xavier, the gym is the closest to the freshman dorms. "That's a good spot," Coly said in 2004. "At a lot of schools, the gym is far away. It's hard to get to the gym."

3. They've Got Teen Wolf. After the North Carolina State Wolfpack passed on him because the whole name thing would have been just be too weird, Xavier finally grabbed guard Johnny Wolf, a freshman from their own back yard — St. Xavier High in Cincinnati (at one time the two schools were on the same campus). As in the movie Teen Wolf, Johnny Wolf's dad was also a basketball star at his school — Marty Wolf (1977-79) is in the Xavier Athletic Hall of Fame in both basketball and tennis. — Rick Chandler

Deadspin Printable Bracket (PDF) (JPG version)
Join The Deadspin Pool!
NCAA Tournament First Round Schedule [Deadspin]
Complete Deadspin First Round Matchup Previews [Deadspin]