1:30 PM – TNT – Des Moines, Iowa
#8 Colorado Josh Scott, Xavier Johnson, Wesley Gordon
vs.
#9 Connecticut #96 Amida Brimah, Daniel Hamilton, Rodney Purvis, Jalen Adams
This is a semi-interesting matchup between one of the most productive big men in college basketball, Josh Scott, and an elite shot-blocker in Amida Brimah. Rarely do you get to see two big men of this caliber match up at the college level, so it will be interesting to see how the two fare. Scott was a terrific offensive weapon in the Pac-12 whose lack of athleticism and penchant for playing almost strictly within five feet of the basket has made it difficult for him to elevate his draft stock. Brimah won't do much to challenge Scott on the other end of the floor, as he is extremely limited offensively, but his length and timing could make things difficult for Scott if he's able to stay out of foul trouble.
Daniel Hamilton came into the season ranked as a lottery pick by some outlets (never this one) but has struggled to show much progress physically and skill-wise. He'll have to be a much more reliable perimeter shooter and try to dial back on some of the wild decisions he tends to make, particularly in transition, to take the next step in his development. His rebounding ability from the wing position, as well as his elite court vision will always keep scouts intrigued, but he'll have to figure out how to mitigate his lackluster frame and explosiveness as a finisher around the basket, where he's consistently struggled throughout his career.