With the Pac-10 probably to have five NCAA tournament bids max

2007-03-02

With the Pac-10 probably to have five NCAA tournament bids max, this afternoon’s West Coast affair between Arizona and Stanford could have major ramifications. It should at least help solve part of the issue. The teams are in a three-way tie for 4th place in the conference and each needs a victory to solidify the tournament resume.

While Lute Olson’s team continues to talk about how they should have a better record, the truth is that mentally they are softer than a loaf of bread. That’s not to say they haven’t shown signs of softness physically either, but the talent on the roster cannot be argued. Meanwhile, while many other teams in the country have outstanding freshmen and tremendous young players, if Stanford can keep its own group together for next season, it should be the Pac-10 preseason favorite. The 7’0 Lopez twins will only improve and get stronger. Guard Anthony Goods and leading scorer Lawrence Hill are becoming more polished each time out. Having just won on Thursday against Arizona State, the Cardinal is 4-2 ATS with a day off between games and 11-5 against the spread off a win. Watch closely for the line on this Pac-10 encounter, as the underdog is on an incredible run of 14-2 ATS. If the StatFox Power Ratings are any indication, Stanford will be favored by 2, meaning the Wildcats could be worth your betting dollar.

Click here to read latest College Basketball news