T minus-40 minutes
So the season's first Duke-UNC showdown is quickly approaching, and the Herald-Sun's Frank Dascenzo just pointed out to me that the latest line in Vegas is Duke by 5. We, of course, boldly predicted an 82-80 upset in today's News & Record. I should amend that to Rob Daniels picked the Heels by that score. I don't totally disavow it, but I give UNC about 40% odds on winning this one. So, when Rob's proven right, I'll take the abuse due me. Or vice versa.
A big question, obviously, will be how "on" J.J. Redick is. And, if he is in that shooter's zone where few dare go, can UNC put together a fourth straight impressive offensive showing to keep pace? If Georgetown can do that, then I suspect the Heels can, too.
Keep an eye on the defensive assignments. Who will get the bulk of J.J. duty for the Heels? Bobby Frasor? Marcus Ginyard? Roy Williams mentioned those two Monday, along with Wes Miller and Reyshawn Terry, in what could be a defense-by-committee sort of thing. But you figure Roy will go with the hot hand, so to speak.
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As a postscript, T-plus 43 hours now, it should be noted that J.J. Redick did alright for himself against the Heels -- especially very early and very late in the game. He scored 35 points against Frasor, Miller and Ginyard. No Terry, if I recall correctly. And he did so while appearing to conserve energy in 39 minutes of work with less running through the lane or around multiple screens than usual. Even when he's just stepping back and shooting from 23 feet, the man knows how to get himself open.
Posted on February 9, 2006 6:21 PM