In what has been an enthralling few weeks of college basketball, it all comes down to number one ranked Purdue and number one UConn for the national championship. UConn, looking to be the first repeat champion since the Florida Gators in 2006-2007, has looked unbeatable over their previous games. They have destroyed strong teams such as last year’s runner-ups San Diego State, as well as national programs like Illinois and Alabama. They face Purdue, who have had a tough road to the final as well. They knocked off tough teams Gonzaga and Tennessee before downing media sensation NC State, who were a cinderella story coming into the tournament. Led by the 6ft 9in, 275-pound DJ Burns, 11th ranked NC State were able to claw through March Madness with style, winning the hearts of millions of basketball fans.
DJ Burns, who reminded people of a lovable personality-type guy (think of Shaquille O’Neal in the 90s with LSU), has since shot up in terms of publicity and popularity. This proves just how powerful the idea of nationally-televised sports has become. Another new star has been Oakland’s Jack Gohlke, the three-point shooting flamethrower who helped down #3 ranked Kentucky. He has since inked multiple deals with popular brands, showcasing the power of NIL deals.
Purdue are 6.5 point underdogs against UConn in the championship, meaning that UConn has the slight edge in terms of winning the national title. However, as March Madness always entails, there is no guarantee of victory for any team. It will be exciting to see which team will come out on top.
Sources:
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Image Credits:
ESPN
