Preview: UMass Lowell at Boston U
The Battle of the Upsets: Boston U Looks to Stun No. 9 UMass Lowell
In a season filled with surprises, the matchup between Boston University and UMass Lowell is shaping up to be one for the ages. The Terriers, led by the potent scoring of Michael McNair (16.4 PPG), look to pull off the upset of the year against the No. 9-seeded Minutemen.
UMass Lowell, boasting a stingy defense that has allowed just 64.8 points per game this season, is looking to build on its recent form and make a deep run in the tournament. The rally monkeys have been buzzing around campus, with fans confident that their team can take down the high-powered Boston U offense.
But don't count out the Terriers just yet. With Chance Gladden (3.8 APG) running the show and Ben Defty (7.0 RPG) controlling the glass, Boston U has all the tools to keep pace with the Minutemen's stifling defense. The question is, can they keep up on offense?
The X-Factor: Tempo Control
As the teams prepare to face off, one key matchup stands out: tempo control. Both Boston U and UMass Lowell have been known for their fast-paced offenses, but which team will come out on top? Can McNair and company exploit the Minutemen's aggressive defense, or will Xavier Spencer (3.3 APG) and the UMass Lowell point guard duo be able to slow down the Terriers?
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Boston U has struggled in recent games, losing four of its last five contests. However, a win against New Hampshire earlier this week has given the team a much-needed boost of confidence. Meanwhile, UMass Lowell has been on fire, winning three straight games and looking like the real deal.
Key Matchups
* Michael McNair (BU) vs Xavier Spencer (UMass): This matchup is shaping up to be one for the ages. Can McNair's scoring prowess overcome Spencer's stifling defense?
* Chance Gladden (BU) vs Austin Green (UMass): The point guard matchup between these two will determine which team controls the tempo.
* Ben Defty (BU) vs UMass Lowell's Front Line: Can Defty control the glass against a stout Minutemen front line?
The Stage is Set
As the teams take to the court, one thing is certain: this game has all the makings of a classic. Will Boston U pull off the upset of the year, or will UMass Lowell prove to be too much for the Terriers? The world will be watching as these two teams go head-to-head in what promises to be an instant classic.